It’s inevitable. Through time, weather, and changes in the soil, that once beautiful, freshly paved driveway is starting to crack and sink. An Like everything else on your property, it needs care, repair, and sometimes outright replacement. Sunken driveways aren’t like broken windows or burst pipes, they don’t need immediate attention. But overtime, they can pose a danger by causing ice buildup and the uneven ground is a tripping hazard.

If you’re thinking of replacing or repairing your driveway, taking these two simple steps will ensure a quality and headache-free experience.

Find a driveway contractor
Repair or replacement of your asphalt driveway or concrete driveway can’t be trusted to your friend’s cousin’s husband. Sunken driveways are messy jobs that require specific tools and materials. Searching “concrete repair Minneapolis” will give you a good place to start finding reliable contractors in your area. Ask your neighbors who they use, and

Remember, a properly installed and maintained driveway, especially concrete, can last between 25 and 50 years, so a job done right goes a long way.

Envision the kind of work you want done
What kind of material do you want to use? Asphalt driveways are less expensive and better suited to cold Minnesota winters, however, they require more maintenance. If you’re environmentally conscious, asphalt can be reclaimed and reused. In 2013,nearly 70 million tons of reclaimed asphalt was reused. Concrete driveways are more customizable, available in more than 250 colors, and they’re more durable, but they’re also pricier.

If you are replacing your driveway or installing a new driveway for a new home, think about the amount of space you will need. A single car driveway requires only eight or nine feet of width, but you’ll need between 15 and 18 feet for a two car driveway.

It’s never too early to get that cracked and sinking driveway fixed–especially before winter!