Residential paving projects can be a great way to enhance your property's appearance as well as improving its accessibility. While many individuals will want to try to complete their residential paving project without professional help, there are some common mistakes that they may make.

Pouring The Pavement Too Thin

Pouring the pavement too thin is a common mistake that individuals will make when attempting to make this property improvement. While keeping the pavement thin can help to reduce the costs of this improvement project, it should be noted that it can increase the failure rate of the pavement as well as shorten its lifespan because the thin pavement may not be able to support the weight of your vehicles, which can lead to extensive cracking and other damage forming. The particular thickness of the pavement will depend on the number and weight of the vehicles that will need to use the driveway. At a minimum, the pavement should be several inches thick to ensure that it is strong enough.

Failing To Account For Storm Runoff

Storm runoff is a major factor in any paving project. If the runoff from intense rain is not effectively considered, it can be possible for the driveway and the surrounding soil to suffer damage. Gutters and French drains are effective options for protecting the pavement from these problems. The exact design that will be needed is largely determined by the surrounding terrain, and experienced professionals may be more effective at anticipating the type of runoff that will be expected and the appropriate mitigation options.

Not Allowing Sufficient Curing Time

Any type of pavement will need time after it has been poured before it will be ready to support the weight of the vehicle. Even quick-drying cement products will need several days or weeks before the pavement can support the weight of a vehicle. If you are wanting an option that can be ready for use as quickly as possible, asphalt can be the superior option. In most cases, asphalt will be ready for use the next day, which can minimize the need to park your car in the street or on your landscaping. The exact amount of curing time needed will be heavily influenced by the depth of the pour. When using a professional residential paving provider, they will be able to provide you with an accurate estimate for when the driveway will be ready for use.