Signs it may be time
- Wide or spreading cracks, or sections that have lifted or sunk
- Water pooling on the surface or running towards the house
- Heavy surface wear, crumbling or loose pavers
- Tree roots pushing up the surface
What removal involves
The old surface is typically broken up, loaded and taken away for disposal or recycling. The amount of material, access for machinery and what's being removed (concrete, pavers or bitumen) all affect the work involved.
Base and drainage checks
Once the old surface is up, the base underneath is commonly checked and may need extra fill or compaction, particularly on Perth's sandy soils. Falls and drainage are also worth reviewing so water runs away from the house.
Choosing a new finish
Replacement is a chance to change the look. Compare plain, exposed aggregate and coloured concrete.
Crossovers (the verge section)
In Perth, the crossover is the section of driveway that sits on the council verge, between your property boundary and the road. Councils usually have their own crossover approval process and specifications, which can cover things like width, materials and levels.
Requirements vary between councils, so check your local council's requirements before work starts. If the crossover is old or doesn't match the new driveway, replacing it at the same time can be worth discussing with the concreting business.
For a deeper look, read replacing an old concrete driveway.
Frequently asked questions
Overlaying is sometimes discussed, but removal is commonly recommended so the base can be checked. Your concreter will advise.