Driveway Specialists
2026-09-10T14:18:39.624Z
We hired Driveway Specialists to completely replace our old driveway in September 2024. After the first winter, we noticed a significant puddling issue in one area of the new driveway during snow melts. We contacted the company, shared multiple pictures, and repeatedly asked them to address the problem. We specifically pointed out a visible hump in the driveway that appeared to be preventing the water from draining, including a photo where we circled the hump with the water collecting behind it.We also had a detailed discussion with the company about our concern with winter pooling and the importance of finding a long-term solution. We asked whether grading, additional substrate, or compaction could help prevent the problem. After multiple follow-ups, they eventually returned in the fall of 2025 to address the issue.Unfortunately, the same area has continued to collect water during winter thaws. We recently contacted them again, and they came out to look at the driveway. However, we were not able to come to an agreement on a solution. Their position was that the issue was due to seasonal ground movement and “mother nature.”We understand that seasonal ground movement is a reality in New England, but our concern is that a completely new driveway should be designed and installed to provide reliable drainage under normal seasonal conditions at the property. The same area has collected standing water during winter thaws for two consecutive winters, even after the driveway was replaced a second time. We also don’t see the same issue with the neighboring driveways. When the water freezes, it creates a sheet of ice in the driveway, which creates a significant slipping hazard.We are disappointed that the drainage issue with the new driveway has still not been resolved.————- 10-sep-2026 response to company replyThank you for providing your perspective. We agree that you returned and replaced the entire driveway at your own expense, and we appreciate that effort.We do want to clarify one important point: the condition we are describing now is in the same area where we experienced the original winter pooling issue. Before the driveway was replaced the second time, we repeatedly communicated our concern about winter pooling and specifically pointed out a visible hump where water was collecting behind it. We also discussed whether grading, additional substrate, or compaction could help prevent the problem.After the complete replacement, the same area again collected standing water during winter thaws. We have also observed this standing water even when there is no snow or ice remaining along the edges of the driveway. That recurring condition is the reason we remain concerned.Regarding the reference to our rear patio, the patio is more than 20 years old and is a separate, much older structure. We do not believe the condition of this older patio changes the concern we are raising about a driveway that has been installed twice within the past two years.We understand and accept that seasonal ground movement and winter conditions can affect a driveway. Our concern is not that water ever exists on the driveway during a snow melt, but that the same area has repeatedly developed significant standing water during winter thaws after two installations.We appreciate your willingness to discuss the issue, but we remain disappointed that we have not been able to find a solution to the recurring drainage problem.