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Driveway Repair in Côte Saint-Luc: When to Patch, Resurface, or Rebuild

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A driveway can look like a simple surface problem while hiding a deeper base or drainage issue. For Côte Saint-Luc homeowners, the smart move is to diagnose the driveway before deciding between a patch, a resurfacing job or a full rebuild.

Patch, resurface or rebuild?

A patch can make sense when damage is isolated: one crack, one low area or a small broken section. Resurfacing may work when the base is still stable but the top layer is tired. A rebuild is usually the better answer when the driveway has widespread sinking, poor drainage, loose paving stones, crumbling edges or repeated cracking after previous repairs.

If you are searching for driveway repair in Montreal, ask the contractor to explain what is happening below the surface, not only what they can cover on top.

Côte Saint-Luc driveway rules matter

Côte Saint-Luc states that a permit is required to alter, resurface or enlarge a driveway, and the city provides driveway dimension guidance. Before moving ahead, homeowners should review the city’s driveway alteration requirements.

This is especially important when a homeowner wants to widen a driveway, change the material or improve parking access.

Why water is usually the real enemy

Pooling water, garage-edge settlement and icy patches are warning signs. If water has nowhere to go, it can move into the base, freeze, expand and cause the surface to shift. That is why a driveway quote should include discussion of slope, drainage and base preparation.

Carmine et Fils emphasizes building to last by engineering the base first, especially for Montreal clay soil and freeze-thaw movement.

Paving stones can help with targeted repairability

When a paver driveway is installed correctly, individual sections can often be lifted, re-levelled and reset. That can make driveway paving stones appealing for homeowners who want a premium look with future repair flexibility.

Asphalt can still be the right choice when the priority is a simple, clean driving surface. The best option depends on the home, budget and existing condition.

FAQ

Can I just patch my Côte Saint-Luc driveway?

Possibly, if the damage is small and the base is stable. If the same area keeps sinking or cracking, patching may only hide the problem temporarily.

Does Côte Saint-Luc require a permit for driveway resurfacing?

The city says a permit is required to alter, resurface or enlarge a driveway, so homeowners should verify requirements before starting.

What should I ask before hiring a driveway repair contractor?

Ask what caused the damage, whether drainage is part of the issue, how deep the repair goes and whether the base will be rebuilt or only covered.

Planning a driveway project in Côte Saint-Luc?

Carmine et Fils has served Montreal homeowners since 1980, with driveway, paving stone, backyard and walkway work built around proper base preparation, drainage and long-term durability.

Ask for a no-obligation Neighbour’s Rate Estimate or send a picture of your existing driveway so the team can help you understand the next step.

Driveway Paving in Westmount: Curb Appeal, Drainage, and Older Homes

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In Westmount, driveway paving is rarely just a utility project. Older homes, mature trees, stone steps, narrow side yards and strong curb appeal expectations all affect how the driveway should be planned.

Why Westmount driveways need careful planning

A driveway that works in a newer suburb may feel wrong in front of a Westmount home. The surface has to handle parking, snow, drainage and access, but it also has to respect the architecture and the existing stonework. This is where paving stones, borders and walkway integration can make a major difference.

For homeowners looking at driveway paving stones, the best projects usually connect the driveway to the front path, stairs or garden edge.

Drainage comes before design

Westmount properties can have slopes, retaining edges and tight spaces. If water drains toward the foundation, garage or neighbour’s property, the driveway surface may look good at first but cause problems later. Proper slope and base design should come before colour, pattern or surface finish.

Across Montreal, driveway work can also intersect with rules for parking spaces and curb cuts. The City of Montréal notes permits may be required when creating or modifying parking spaces, and curb cut work has its own application process. Review the Montréal pages on parking space permits and curb cuts where applicable.

Westmount permit context

The City of Westmount says permits for driveways, pedestrian driveways and parking areas are issued by the Permits and Inspections Division. Homeowners should check the city’s driveway, walkway and parking area information before work begins.

Repair may not be enough

If the driveway is cracking because the base has moved, a surface repair may not solve the issue. The same is true when old edges are loose or water is sitting in low spots. In those cases, a driveway repair service should explain whether targeted repair, resurfacing or rebuilding is the honest recommendation.

FAQ

Is asphalt appropriate for a Westmount driveway?

It can be, especially when the goal is a clean, simple surface. Paving stones may be preferred when curb appeal and integration with existing stonework matter more.

Should the walkway be planned with the driveway?

Yes. In many Westmount homes, the driveway, front steps, walkway and garden edge are visually connected.

Do Westmount driveway projects need permits?

Westmount provides specific driveway, walkway and parking area permit information. Homeowners should confirm requirements before starting.

Planning a driveway project in Westmount?

Carmine et Fils has served Montreal homeowners since 1980, with driveway, paving stone, backyard and walkway work built around proper base preparation, drainage and long-term durability.

Ask for a no-obligation Neighbour’s Rate Estimate or send a picture of your existing driveway so the team can help you understand the next step.