Top 5 Signs It's Time To Repave Your Driveway
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Owning a home comes with its fair share of responsibilities. Among those responsibilities is driveway maintenance. Your driveway welcomes you home every day and significantly contributes to your property’s curb appeal. Recognizing and addressing early signs of damage can save you both time and money in the long run. So, when is it time for a driveway repaving? Let’s discuss that subject in detail.
5 Signs It’s Time To Repave Your Driveway
1. Visible Cracks Appearing
Every homeowner dreads the sight of cracks in their driveway. Several types of cracks can manifest, from linear ones to the notorious alligator-looking cracks. These are cracks resembling the scales on a reptile’s back. The onset of cracks can be attributed to various factors, from natural ground movement to the weight and frequency of vehicular traffic.
While minor cracks might seem harmless, leaving them untreated can lead to extensive and not to mention expensive repairs. With driveway repaving and signs of asphalt damage being common concerns, tackling cracks head-on is always advisable.
2. Water Pooling and Drainage Issues
A well-constructed driveway should efficiently drain water, preventing any standing pools. Standing pools of water indicate an underlying issue if you notice water accumulation in certain areas after a rain shower. Standing water is detrimental to both asphalt and concrete surfaces. Over time, it can seep into the foundation, leading to erosion and aggravating cracks, especially with the freeze-thaw cycles in colder climates. Proper driveway maintenance isn’t just about aesthetics but functionality and longevity.
3. The Surface Appears Faded or Worn Out
Natural wear and tear are inevitable. Factors like UV ray exposure, harsh weather conditions, and the regular grind of tires can gradually rob your driveway of its once-vibrant appearance. A faded driveway affects your home’s curb appeal and hints at deeper issues, like reduced resistance to external elements. While treatments like sealcoating offer temporary solutions, it might be time to consider repaving to restore its original look and strength if the wear is widespread.
4. Potholes Forming
Starting as minor depressions, potholes can quickly escalate into major problems for homeowners. They form due to the expansion and contraction of ground water after it has entered the ground under the pavement. When water freezes, it expands. If it melts and refreezes repeatedly, the cavity it leaves behind can cause the pavement to sink and form a pothole.
Apart from being an eyesore, untreated potholes pose vehicle damage threats and safety hazards. Asphalt repair might help patch smaller potholes, but a series of them, particularly large potholes, might signal the need for a complete driveway repave.
5. Your Driveway is Over 20 Years Old
Everything has a lifespan, and driveways are no exception. Typically, a well-maintained asphalt driveway can last 20-25 years, while its concrete counterpart might last a bit longer. If your driveway is hitting the two-decade mark, inspecting for signs of significant wear or structural issues is wise.
The advantages of repaving an older driveway are many. New technologies and materials not available twenty years ago can offer a more durable, aesthetically pleasing, and often more eco-friendly driveway solution.
Get A Free Driveway Paving Consultation Today!
A well-maintained driveway boosts your property’s aesthetic appeal and ensures safety and functionality. If you spot any of the signs listed above, it might be time to consider professional intervention. At A&A Asphalt Paving & Concrete Services, we provide top-notch paving solutions tailored to your needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us for any consultations, repairs, or services.
FAQ About Driveway Repaving
Repaving a driveway involves removing the top layer of an existing driveway and laying down a fresh layer of asphalt or concrete. This process restores the surface to its original condition, addressing any damages, cracks, or wear that might have occurred over time.
After repaving, it’s typically recommended to stay off the driveway for at least 48 to 72 hours. For asphalt driveways, this allows the material to harden and cure. In hotter climates, it might take longer for the asphalt to set, so it’s always good to consult with the paving company about the specific wait time for your conditions.
Yes, you can. This process is known as an “overlay”. It involves laying a new layer of asphalt over the existing one. However, before doing an overlay, any major cracks or issues in the existing driveway need to be addressed. If the foundation of the original driveway is severely compromised, a complete removal and replacement might be necessary.
A crumbling driveway indicates that it’s facing significant wear and degradation. To fix it:
- Clean the Area: Remove loose particles, debris, and weeds.
- Fill Any Potholes or Depressions: Use a cold patch asphalt repair mix for potholes and a resurfacer for minor depressions.
- Seal Cracks: Use a rubberized asphalt-emulsion crack filler.
- Apply a Driveway Sealer: Once cracks are filled and the surface is repaired, apply a quality driveway sealer to protect the surface and extend its lifespan.
- Consider Repaving: If the crumbling is extensive, it might be time for a complete repave to restore the driveway’s integrity and appearance.
Always consult with a professional paving service, like A&A Asphalt Paving & Concrete Services, to determine the best solution for your specific situation.