Does your driveway need to be removed? Read before you dig!
A well-maintained driveway enhances your property’s curb appeal and provides a functional space for parking vehicles. However, over time, driveways can become damaged or outdated, requiring the need for a driveway removal service (such as those offered by GBC Excavating).
Whether you’re looking to replace your driveway with a new material or design or simply need to remove it for a landscape project, this guide will cover everything you need to know about the driveway removal process. If you have any questions while reading or after, please contact us.
Reasons for removal of a driveway
Driveway removal services may be necessary for several reasons. The reasons we see a lot at GBC Excavation include:
- Damage and deterioration: Weather, heavy loads, and general wear and tear can cause cracks, potholes, and crumbling in your driveway, compromising its structural integrity and appearance.
- Design changes: A new landscape design, home addition, or utility installation might require driveway removal to accommodate these changes.
- Material upgrade: Homeowners might choose to upgrade their driveway material from asphalt or concrete to more attractive and durable options like pavers, stamped concrete, or natural stone.
- Environmental concerns: Some homeowners may opt for permeable driveway materials to reduce water runoff and promote environmentally friendly practices.
Types of driveways that get removed
Before discussing driveway removal services, it’s essential to understand the various types of driveways and their unique characteristics. Not every driveway is removed the same!
- Asphalt driveways: Asphalt is a popular driveway material due to its affordability and durability. However, it requires regular maintenance and is susceptible to cracking and fading over time. Asphalt is also know to warp and become uneven if the underlying area was not properly prepared prior to the asphalt layer.
- Concrete driveways: Concrete is another common material, offering more design flexibility and a longer lifespan than asphalt. However, it can be more expensive and is prone to cracking if not installed correctly. This especially true in the Western New York area where frequent freeze thaw events can accelerate damage.
- Paver driveways: Pavers provide a wide range of design options and are known for their durability and low maintenance. However, they can be more costly and time-consuming to install. Pavers can also be time consuming and time consuming to remove if you plan to reuse (or resell) them.
- Gravel driveways: Gravel is an affordable, low-maintenance option that provides a rustic look. However, it can be prone to erosion and requires periodic replenishment. It can also be an eyesore in some neighborhoods and for particular types of businesses.
Driveway removal techniques used by contractors
Professional driveway removal services employ various techniques to ensure a safe and efficient removal process:
- Manual removal: For smaller driveways or less durable materials, manual removal using sledgehammers, pry bars, and wheelbarrows might be sufficient. This is back-breaking work not for the faint of heart.
- Mechanical removal: For larger driveways or more robust materials, professionals use heavy machinery like excavators, skid-steer loaders, and jackhammers to break up and remove the driveway. These techniques require expensive machinery and skilled operators.
- Chemical removal: In some cases, chemicals like sodium bicarbonate or potassium hydroxide can be used to break down the driveway material, making it easier to remove. It’s not used very often, but some driveway removal projects require it.
- Saw cutting: Professional contractors may use saw cutting for precise removal, especially when working around utilities, structures, or other sensitive areas. This often to speed up the mechanical removal process with larger surfaces where multiple machines are operating.
Factors affecting driveway removal costs
Driveway removal services can vary in cost depending on several factors:
- Driveway size: Larger driveways will require more time, labor, and equipment, resulting in higher costs. Smaller driveways with less access may also result in higher costs since more expensive specialty equipment or manual labor is often required.
- Material type: Durable materials like concrete and pavers may be more challenging to remove and could increase the overall cost. The number of material layers also play a factor in the overall cost of the removal project.
- Access and location: Limited access or challenging terrain can make the removal process more difficult, potentially increasing the cost. The smaller and tighter the areas the more manual labor will be involved.
- Disposal fees: The cost of hauling away and disposing of the removed driveway material will also factor into the overall price. The cost varies based on how far away your location is from the nearest disposal site and their associated fees.
Preparing for driveway removal (so it goes smoothly)
Before hiring a driveway removal contractor, take these steps to ensure a smooth process:
- Obtain necessary permits: Check with your local building department to determine if a permit is required for driveway removal and follow their guidelines accordingly.
- Notify neighbors: Inform your neighbors about the upcoming project to avoid any potential disturbances or conflicts.
- Mark utility lines: Contact your local utility companies to have them mark any underground lines that may be in the vicinity of your driveway to prevent accidental damage during the removal process.
- Clear the area: Remove any vehicles, equipment, or obstructions from the driveway and surrounding area to ensure safe and efficient access for the driveway removal services team.
Hiring a professional driveway removal service
When selecting a driveway removal company, consider the following factors to ensure a successful project:
- Experience: Choose a company with extensive experience in driveway removal, as they will be well-versed in the necessary techniques and safety precautions. You don’t want to hire someone removing their first driveway.
- Licensing and insurance: Confirm that the company holds the appropriate licenses and insurance to protect you and your property in case of accidents or damage. Lost cost bidders often lack the proper insurances and licenses leaving you high and dry if something goes wrong.
- Reviews and references: Check online reviews and ask for references to ensure the company has a track record of satisfied clients and successful projects. If an excavating contractor is doing good work, they will have plenty of references to share.
- Environmental considerations: If sustainability is essential to you, consider hiring a driveway removal service that emphasizes eco-friendly practices, such as recycling removed materials and minimizing waste. This is a personal choice, but one that home and business owners are more aware of than ever before.
What to expect during the driveway removal process
Here’s a general overview of the driveway removal process:
- Site preparation: The removal crew will prepare the area by setting up safety barriers, marking utilities, and ensuring proper access.
- Driveway removal: The team will use the appropriate techniques to break up and remove the driveway material, carefully working around any utilities or structures.
- Debris removal and disposal: After the driveway is removed, the crew will load the debris onto trucks and haul it away for proper disposal or recycling.
- Site cleanup: Once the driveway is removed, the team will clean up any remaining debris and leave the area ready for the next stage of your project, whether that’s installing a new driveway or landscaping.
Driveway replacement options
If you plan to install a new driveway after the removal, consider these popular materials:
- Asphalt: Affordable and durable, asphalt is a common choice for driveway installations. It requires regular maintenance to maintain its appearance and longevity.
- Concrete: Concrete driveways offer design flexibility, long life spans, and low maintenance but can be more expensive than asphalt.
- Pavers: With a wide range of design options, pavers are known for their durability and low maintenance but can be more expensive and time-consuming to install.
- Gravel: Gravel driveways are an affordable, low-maintenance option with a rustic aesthetic but may require periodic replenishment due to erosion.
Ready to get your driveway removed?
Understanding the driveway removal process, from reasons for removal to hiring professional driveway removal services, is essential for a successful project. By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient driveway removal, paving the way for an updated and functional driveway or a fresh landscape design.
Plus, we’re always here to help. Give GBC Excavating a call or contact us and we’ll dig into your project right away!