Home Style Decorating

Probably the most neglected part of your home is your driveway. It looked good when it was brand new but it did not fared well with all the dirt, cracks, weeds and oil marks that time dealt. So, here are some tried and tested tips that will make your drive way look brand new:

• If you notice puddles in the middle of your driveway after a rain, then your concrete driveway has settled into an insufficient foundation. To facilitate drainage away from your house, there should be an increase of 1/4 inch for every foot of driveway from the road to your house.
• Oil stains on your driveway can be remedied with a sprinkle of cat litter or saw dust. Let it sit for two days then sweep it off. The top oils should be removed by then. For deep seated oils, a sprinkle of dry concrete powder will do the trick but you should take note of the weather first or you will end up with a permanent concrete patch.
• Hot water and pressure washer will do for a not so dirty driveway but for a nice and even cleaning, power washing is preferred. There are cleaners specific to driveways, sidewalks, or just concrete in general.
• Once your driveway is nice and clean, it is time to apply a sealant. Because concrete is porous, dirt and oils can easily settle down into its numerous holes which will make your driveway dirty again so a sealant is needed. Sealants can be applied just like paint, and will give a nice glossy look. Some will even make the driveway appear as if it is still wet. A sealant can go a long way and you may need to apply it again once a year or two.
• If you are just bored in general with your driveway, then give it a facelift. There are plenty of decorative finished you can use for your driveway. The local hardware stores will have an entire section devoted to concrete finishes.

Most people never pay any attention to this area, but it is the first part of any house you actually step foot on. Following the tips given above will help you have and maintain a nice and clean driveway.

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