4 Simple Ways to Spiff Up Your Driveway

The driveway is the workhorse of every home, what with all of life's traffic coming in and going out. Still, it's easy to overlook when you're doing your weekend chores. If your driveway is a bit of an eyesore, there's no need to wait until you're getting ready to put the house up for sale. These quick and easy tips will help you get a dirty, ugly, overgrown driveway back in shape in no time.

1. Kill the weeds.

Driveway weeds are a conundrum. Where do they come from? Why do they keep popping up? The answer is simple: The driveway is an excellent environment for weeds. Asphalt, concrete, stone, and paver driveways all have cracks and breaks and other places where little bits of soil settle. Moisture from rainfall, car washes, and sprinklers enters those openings and gets trapped under the surface. So, when weed seeds fall in those cracks, their roots find a nice, moist place with just enough soil coverage in which to grow—and grow they do.

To get rid of those pesky driveway weeds, use Ortho® GroundClear® Super Weed & Grass Killer. Not only does it quickly kill 175 types of weeds and grasses, but it works by getting to the plants' roots to kill them at the source. Follow all label directions and these weeds won't be coming back.

2. Pressure wash the driveway.

Once weeds are treated and you've waited at least the 2 hours it takes for Ortho® GroundClear® Weed & Grass Killer Ready-to-Use to become rainproof, it's time to wash away dirt and grime. First, sweep off any dirt and debris. If desired, spray a degreaser or similar cleaner on the surface of the driveway to help get rid of oil spots and other stains caused by cars and trucks. (Always check the label of any product to make sure it's suitable for your driveway.) Set up your pressure washer according to the owner's manual, making sure to attach the proper washing tip. (If you don't have a pressure washer, you can attach a pressure washer-style nozzle to a regular garden hose.) Direct the water over the entire surface of the driveway. Make sure to take long, overlapping passes to avoid streaking and ensure you don't miss any spots.

3. Create a clean edge.

While it's drying or after it's dry, neaten up the edge of your driveway. An edge line not only tidies the overall look, but it also creates a border between the driveway and your lawn that makes mowing and weed control easier. If using an electric edger, follow your owner's manual. If edging by hand, line up a flat shovel, square garden spade, or half-moon edger (also called a turf edger) against the edge of the driveway and push down at a 90-degree angle. Remove about 3 to 4 inches of soil and grass. Continue edging the entire driveway, cleaning up any dirt, grass, and rocks left behind.

4. Add a hardscape and some color.

As a finishing touch, consider adding a little texture and interest to your driveway by lining the edges with decorative stones or brick pavers. This will not only make the area more attractive, but the stones will also act as a buffer between driveway and lawn. For a burst of color, add hanging baskets or place large planters on either side of the garage door.

By sprucing up your driveway, you'll automatically boost the curb appeal of your home. Tackle these 4 steps in a single weekend afternoon or work on it bit by bit. Either way, you'll end up with a driveway you'll love turning in to at the end of the day.