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Maintaining a driveway depends on its material. For concrete and asphalt, it's best to clean the surface thoroughly twice a year with a stiff broom and a pressure washer to remove accumulated dirt and debris. Sealing the driveway is crucial to protect it from water damage and freeze-thaw cycles. Before applying a sealant, pressure wash the surface to remove any loose sealant, dirt, or stains, as sealing over them will trap them. Any cracks or expansion joints should be filled with a flexible polyurethane caulk or asphalt sealer. In colder climates, use sand instead of salt for de-icing. Sand helps melt snow and ice without accelerating the freeze-thaw process, which can cause cracks.

Yes, hardscaping is generally a great investment that can increase your home's value. Hardscape features improve your yard's functionality, safety, and aesthetics, which boosts curb appeal and overall property value. According to a survey by the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Landscape Professionals, hardscape upgrades are one of the top four outdoor projects that add value to a property for resale, along with landscape upgrades, landscape management, and lawn care services. While most buyers see value in these features, some may be concerned about potential increases in property taxes or the cost to alter them later. However, the return on investment is typically excellent. For best results, hardscaping should be combined with professional landscaping, and it's wise to hire a reliable contractor for installation.

Yes, pea gravel is good for driveways as long as your driveway isn’t built on a hill or any type of slope where it can slide. It’ll settle on a flat surface and create a suitable driveway over time, though some spreading initially will take place. If you're wondering how to make a gravel driveway in a high-rainfall area, using pea gravel could help you to cut down on costs needed for extra drainage solutions.

There’s no single best asphalt grade—it all comes down to where and how it’s used. Highways and heavy-traffic roads need something tough, like polymer-modified asphalt (PMA) or Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA). Local roads and parking lots rely on the Performance Graded (PG) system, chosen based on climate. A PG 64-28 mix, for example, handles a broad temperature range while simpler, more cost-effective mixes are typically enough for residential driveways. The best grade of asphalt depends on traffic, weather, and your budget, which is why a professional’s input is always a smart move before making a decision.