How long should I expect a driveway to last?

Radwan: Concrete driveways hold up much better than asphalt, especially in a hot climate.

Dobrzeniecki: Concrete lasts for years and years. If you place it right, it'll last a lifetime.

Custer: Concrete's the most popular. Asphalt costs a little less, but it doesn't have the longevity of concrete.

What's the best way to repair cracks?

Radwan: There's not a lot you can do except grind it out and fill it with epoxy. If it's badly cracked, it's probably an older driveway, so it might be worthwhile to replace it.

Dobrzeniecki: In concrete, it's best to leave it alone as long as it's not shifting or a trip hazard. For the expense of grinding it out and patching it, you could replace the driveway.

Custer: The only repair would be to fill it with a caulking material designed for concrete. If it's done properly, it can be a long-term solution.

How can I maintain my driveway to prevent cracks and damage?

Radwan: You don't want to plant trees any closer than 6 to 8 feet. Roots damage driveways. Even a root the size of your thumb can damage a driveway.

Dobrzeniecki: I don't advise pressure washing. It can take off the top layer and expose aggregate rock. That won't hurt the driveway, but it doesn't look very good.

Custer: Make sure the contractor compacts the soil base so the driveway won't shift. They should place control joints every 10 feet.

What's the best time of year to schedule driveway service or installation?

Radwan: Summer is the worst, because in the humidity, moisture in concrete evaporates quicker, which can cause heat cracks.

Dobrzeniecki: Fall is probably the worst, when leaves are coming down and can get into the concrete. Summertime is hard because of the rain.

Custer: We work all year round. If you're having work done in May, June or July, it might take a few days longer, because that's the rainy season.

What should I do in advance of driveway installation?

Radwan: If you're expanding a driveway, have your irrigation person reset the sprinklers to outside the edges of where the new drive will be.

Dobrzeniecki: All I need is for things such as sprinklers and utility lines to be marked out.

Custer: Research the contractor and make sure they're licensed and insured. Don't just take their word for it. Check it out with the state and get a certificate from their carrier.