Cracks vs sinking vs surface wear
- Fine cracks: common in concrete and often cosmetic.
- Sinking or lifting sections: can point to base movement, washed-out sand or roots underneath.
- Surface wear: flaking, dusting or exposed stone from age and weather.
When repair might be enough vs replacement
Isolated, minor issues are sometimes addressed without a full replacement. Widespread cracking, sunken areas, drainage problems or a surface that's simply reached the end of its life commonly point towards replacement. A concreting business can give you an opinion for your site. Perth Driveway Group handles enquiries for new and replacement driveways only.
Removal and disposal
The old slab is typically broken up and carted away. Access, thickness and any reinforcement all affect the effort involved.
Sandy soil and tree roots
Perth's sandy soils can shift or wash out, so base preparation is commonly important. Tree roots can lift slabs; it's worth discussing nearby trees with your concreter before work starts.
Drainage
Check where water goes now. A new driveway is a chance to set falls so water runs away from the house and doesn't pool.
The crossover and council step
The crossover sits on the council verge. Councils usually have their own approval process and specifications, so check your local council's requirements. See driveway replacement in Perth for more.
Questions to ask
- Is the whole driveway being replaced, including the crossover?
- How will the base be prepared, and will any fill be added?
- What thickness, reinforcement and joints are proposed?
- How will drainage be handled?
- Who arranges council approval, if needed?
- What's included in removal, disposal and clean-up?