7 Common Driveway Mistakes Melbourne Homeowners Should Avoid

A driveway isn't just about aesthetic appeal; it must be a functional and pleasant space for people to use. It must offer a reliable connection for vehicles, accommodate normal demands of the property's use, and fit the property's drainage, landscaping and existing grade. In haste, seemingly inconsequential decisions can result in cracking, settlement, pooling of water or an expensive redo. It's especially significant when it involves contrasting paving contractors Melbourne, as two quotes may sound the same, but they may be very different in their degree of preparation, in the type of materials used and in how they are finished. There's a lot of variability between Melbourne properties, too. A block with a slope, existing trees, soil that reacts to planting, and less frontage or an existing cross over can provide different needs to a simple residential block.

1.   There is a tendency to select materials because of their appearance alone.

A driveway's material should match your home, but look shouldn't be the only thing you consider.

There are different properties of concrete, exposed aggregate, asphalt, concrete pavers, brick and natural stone. The right selection will depend on the driveway usage, the condition of the site, desired driveway appearance and expected level of maintenance by the homeowner.

In some instances, families that have more cars might choose durability and ease of maintenance. Another homeowner might be more interested in having a decorative paving that matches the landscaping.

When choosing a surface, think about:

•            Type and number of vehicles used for transport.

•            Transport vehicle type and number.

•            Expected traffic

•            Site conditions

•            Drainage

•            Maintenance requirements

•            Budget

•            Existing landscaping

•            Overall appearance

But rather the question should be, “Which material looks best?” Rather, question the type of material that is suitable for the property and what it is being used for.

2.    Improperly grading a slope.

One of the most essential components of a driveway is usually not visible following construction.

The substrate beneath the completed surface must be stable to support the finished surface. Preparation can include excavation, removal of unsuited material, grading, installation of a base and compaction.

The completed driveway can present the following problems if the underlying problems are not addressed:

•            Settlement

•            Cracking

•            Uneven areas

•            Surface movement

•            Premature deterioration

That's why replacing an existing driveway with an entirely new surface isn't always the best choice.

When getting a quote, make sure you ask what preparation is being included. Determine if the current surface will be taken away, how the base will be prepared, and if there are apparent ground and/or drain issues, determine if the contractor has identified them.

3.   Failing to consider Drainage and Water Runoff

Water has to somewhere move.

Rain water may puddle on or flow to problem areas if a driveway is not well graded and/or if drainage is not adequately planned.

Potential consequences include:

•            Water pooling

•            Erosion

•            Mosquito breeding in ditches or low-lying areas around the edges of the driveway

•            Damage to landscaping

•            Moisture-related problems

•            Increased maintenance

4.   The automatic choice of the cheapest quote can reduce expenses.

Though price is key, low price does not always mean low-cost project.

The price of the preparation time and the materials used will vary between contractors. Some may quote on excavation, base preparation, disposal and drainage and others may quote primarily on installing the visible surface.

When requesting quotes, ask for the quotes to explicitly specify:

·       Excavation

·       The removal of the materials already present.

·       Base preparation

·       Materials

·       Labor

·       Drainage

·       Edging

·       Waste removal

·       Finishing

·       Cleanup

It's also important to ask if there are any situations that might lead to extra fees.

5.   Overlooking Council Requirements

The driveway may extend beyond the private property line.

The area between a private driveway and the street is known as a vehicle crossover. The nature strip, footpath and kern are all part of the road reserve, and so may be a part of a crossing in Victoria. The Victorian Government has guidelines to consider when planning vehicle site access and council crossovers.

So, homeowners should not presume that the same needs will apply across Melbourne.

For instance, one council may have particular specifications on the dimensions of the crossovers, permits, street trees or building requirements that vary from another council.

Contact your local council or relevant council for your area, before work commences, to confirm:

·       Determine if a permit is necessary.

·       Crossover requirements

·       Nature-strip requirements

·       Footpath considerations

·       Drainage requirements

·       Contractor requirements

·       Any planning restrictions that apply

Avoid taking the information from another Melbourne suburb just because the project looks similar.

6.   Design for Looks Rather than Everyday Use

A driveway is a part of your front appearance, however, it ought to work well each day.

Think about how the cars get in and out of the property! Although a good design is pleasing to the eye, it can be frustrating when it is too small, has an awkward turn or is difficult to get at the garage.

Think about:

•            Vehicle width

•            Number of cars

•            Garage position

•            Turning space

•            Pedestrian access

•            Driveway slope

•            Visibility

•            Future vehicle requirements

The homeowner who currently owns a small vehicle might at some point become a larger SUV, van or other vehicle owner. Considering only the present time in the future can lead to future restrictions in design.

7.   Forgetting About Maintenance

Note that the installation of a new driveway does not mean that maintenance can be put on the back burner.

The maintenance required depends on the surface, surrounding environment and manufacturer's or installer's recommendations. Homeowners should periodically check the driveway for changes, instead of waiting until a small problem is visible as damage.

Watch for:

•            New cracks

•            Surface wear

•            Settlement

•            Damaged edges

•            Weed growth

•            Water pooling

•            Staining

•            Drainage problems

Some problems may be resolved at the local level. Others may suggest a possible underlying issue that should be evaluated by a professional.

Inquire from the installer what the routine maintenance for the surface will be. If sealing is recommended, find out when it needs to be done and what product(s) can be used for sealing.

Don't use a treatment that is marketed as being effective for “all driveways.” The type of maintenance needed can vary from surface to surface.

The impact of Melbourne Conditions on Driveway performance.

There are no general conditions that applies to all Melbourne properties.

Driveways can be affected by various factors such as ground conditions, rainfall, drainage, vegetation, site slope and vehicle loads. Also consider established trees as their roots and surrounding conditions can impact hard surfaces.

This is why it's best to get a site assessment done rather than just a generic statement on Melbourne's climate.

Before suggesting building techniques or materials, a contractor should first inspect the property and determine whether there are practical issues.

Discuss any obvious slope, drainage or ground movement issues prior to receiving an overall quote.

Repair, Resurface or Replace?

Not all damaged driveways have to be replaced.

Repair

Repair might be considered if the issue is small and the underlying structure is appropriate.

This could be if there is damage to just a section of the driveway, or if there are smaller defects which did not impact the overall integrity of the driveway.

Resurface

If the overall structure of the building is reasonably sound, and the surface appearance of the building is worn or dated, resurfacing may be considered.

But, once you resurface, those underlying settlement, drainage or base issues are not necessarily eliminated.

Replace

Replacement may be more suitable when a significant amount of deterioration has occurred, extensive settlement, major cracking or underlying structural issue.

The secret lies in recognizing the cause of the problem, not just the symptoms, in the case of a driveway.

When in doubt, it may be beneficial to have a professional evaluation to see if repair or resurfacing or replacement is practical.

Finding a professional that is trustworthy when it comes to driveway services is quite challenging.

The contractor you select can make a huge difference in the results.

First, search for experience that is pertinent. Inquire if they've ever done any work like yours and if they can present real-life examples.

When comparing the paving contractors in Melbourne, you should consider:

·       Relevant residential experience

·       Clear written quotations

·       Detailed scope of work

·       Understand appropriate materials.

·       Understanding of drainage

·       Knowledge of the council's requirements that apply.

·       Recent customer feedback

·       Clear communication

·       Warranty/Workmanship terms are included in writing (where available)

Feel free to ask technical questions. A pro should be able to explain what they're offering, and why it's a good fit for your house.

Avoid unrealistic or overly specific guarantees, unless site conditions are taken into account. Performance of a driveway is dependent upon its construction, materials used, usage and the weather and conditions of the individual property.

Questions to Ask Before Starting Your Project

Before you enter into an agreement, ask:

1.      What is the site preparation?

2.      What material do you think is suitable and why?

3.      What will be the drainage plan?

4.      If the existing driveway is not being removed:

5.      What is included in the quotation?

6.      Do there seem to be some other expenses?

7.      Is a Council approval required for the crossover?

8.      What is the anticipated installation time?

9.      What maintenance will be needed for the finished surface?

10.  What are the workmanship terms?

Before construction, it is important that clear answers are had to avoid future misunderstandings.

Frequently Asked Questions

·       Which is the worst error homeowners make when they have a driveway installed?

One of the serious errors is to ignore preparation and drainage. The areas below the driveway should be considered when planning, as problems can occur there and eventually show up in the finished surface.

·       What's the best driveway material for Melbourne?

No single “best” type of material. Different properties and budgets make it possible to choose between concrete, exposed aggregate, asphalt and pavers as surfaces. The selection shall include consideration of vehicle usage, vehicle appearance, vehicle maintenance, drainage and site conditions.

·       Do I need to check with Council if I want to make a driveway crossing?

This will vary according to where it is and what they are proposing to do. Vehicle crossovers are for access to private land from the road and may include the use of the road reserve, as confirmed by the Victorian Government guidance. Residents need to obtain updated information from their local council before starting projects.

·       What makes driveways crack and become uneven?

These may be caused by the site not being prepared properly, ground movement, drainage issues, loading and deterioration with age. Decisions for repairs or replacement should be made based on a diagnosis of the actual cause.

·       But is the cheapest driveway quote the best?

Not necessarily. Look at the various components of each quotation including excavation, base preparation, material, drainage, waste removal and finishing. A lower quote might be without the same amount of work.

·       Do I need to fix or replace my old driveway?

Will depend on the severity and origin of the damage. A localized issue may be repairable, or if the settlement is widespread or the structures are deteriorating or there are significant drainage issues, more extensive work may be needed.

·       How to select a paving contractor Melbourne?

Seek applicable experience, written quotes, similar projects, good communication and comprehension of local requirements. Don't just go with the cheapest price, but compare the quality and the breadth of the work undertaken.

Conclusion

Many decisions need to be made before installing a driveway before the project succeeds.

The use of materials without considering site preparation, without considering drainage, taking any price you can get, overlooking council requirements, choosing a material for looks rather than function and neglecting maintenance can all be avoided.

Local requirements should be considered for Melbourne homeowners. Road reserve works and vehicle crossovers may require council processes, and may have different requirements in each council area. Before construction always check for the latest information with the appropriate body.

Most importantly, select the driveway type based on your property's specific requirements and conditions, rather than a generic suggestion.

A competent contractor will be able to present a clear picture of the proposed preparation, material, drainage plan and project scope. Answering those questions may prevent you from costly surprises and build a driveway that will work as well as look good.