Your driveway takes a beating over the years. It’s the first thing people see, and it’s got to work right—keep you safe, handle your car, the whole deal. But there comes a point when patching it isn’t enough. How do you know it’s time to start over? These are the signs I’ve come across that tell you it’s done.
1. It’s Been Around Too Long
Concrete lasts maybe 25-30 years. Asphalt? More like 15-20. If your driveway’s hitting those numbers—or past them—repairs start costing more than they’re worth. Old surfaces don’t hold new fixes well, and if the base is crumbling, a concrete contractor will probably say replacement’s the way to go.
2. Big Cracks and Holes
Small cracks are fixable. But when they’re deep or you’ve got potholes forming, it’s a problem. They’re risky to walk on, and water gets in, eating away at what’s underneath. If the damage goes all the way down, no patch is going to last.
3. Water Sticks Around
If rain leaves puddles that don’t drain, something’s off. A good driveway slopes a little to move water away. When it doesn’t, the ground’s shifted or it was built wrong. That water seeps in, messes with the base, and makes everything worse over time.
4. The Top’s Wearing Away
Weather and traffic grind down the surface. If you see loose bits or it’s rough to walk on, it’s breaking apart. Once that top layer’s gone, the rest starts falling apart too. Resurfacing might not even help at that point.
5. It’s Sinking or Uneven
Sunken spots or bumps mean the ground underneath isn’t holding up. Could be erosion or a bad base from the start. It’s not just annoying—it cracks more under weight. A pro can check what’s going on below, but if it’s bad, you’re looking at a full replacement.
6. Repairs Aren’t Worth It Anymore
If you’re fixing it every year and it still looks awful, stop. The costs pile up, and on an old driveway, those fixes don’t stick. At some point, tearing it out and starting fresh makes more sense than throwing money away.
Last Word
Catching these signs early can save you trouble later. If your driveway’s old, damaged, or failing, it’s worth a hard look. Someone who knows driveways can check the base and drainage to figure out what’s next. A new one might cost you now, but it’ll hold up better in the long run.
