What Causes Cracks In Asphalt Driveways?

Asphalt driveways are designed to be durable, but over time, cracks are almost inevitable. The reality is that cracks in asphalt driveways don’t happen for just one reason. They’re caused by a combination of environmental factors, usage, and even age. By understanding the most common causes, you’ll know how to protect your driveway and when it’s time to call in professionals for repair or replacement.

How Do Cracks Form on an Asphalt Driveway?

Cracks in driveways form when the stress on the asphalt exceeds its strength. Weather, water, and pressure all contribute to weakening the pavement. Small cracks may not seem like a big deal at first, but they allow water to seep in, which can worsen the damage over time. When left untreated, these cracks can grow into potholes and lead to more serious structural issues. Here are the main reasons cracks develop in asphalt driveways.

Poor Installation or Subpar Materials

A strong driveway starts with a solid foundation. If the base layer isn’t properly graded and compacted, or if an inferior asphalt mix is used, the surface will be weaker from the start. This makes it more prone to shifting under the weight of vehicles or reacting poorly to weather changes. Homeowners often notice early cracking or uneven settling when the installation wasn’t done correctly. Unfortunately, patching alone won’t fix an unstable base – repaving may be necessary to rebuild the foundation and restore durability.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Georgia’s climate can be harsh on asphalt. Hot summers cause the pavement to soften and expand, while cooler temperatures make it contract. This constant expansion and contraction create stress that eventually leads to cracking. Long stretches of sun exposure also dry out asphalt, making it more brittle. 

Tree Roots Beneath the Driveway

Tree roots search for water and nutrients as they grow, and will often spread beneath driveways in search of nourishment. Over time, they can push up from below, creating raised sections and cracks on the asphalt surface. These cracks are usually concentrated near the edges of the driveway or where trees are nearby. Unlike surface-level wear, root damage continues to worsen unless the roots are removed or the driveway is repaved.

UV Radiation and Sun Damage

Direct sunlight has a chemical effect on asphalt. Ultraviolet (UV) rays cause the oils in asphalt to oxidize, making the surface dry, brittle, and prone to cracking. Georgia homeowners often see driveways fade from a rich black to a dull gray – a clear sign of sun damage. Without sealcoating, UV exposure accelerates surface breakdown and leads to premature cracking.

Water Infiltration

Water is asphalt’s greatest enemy. When it seeps through cracks or pools on the surface, it erodes the base beneath the pavement. This weakens the structure, allowing cracks to form and spread. Poor drainage worsens the problem, as standing water continually seeps into weak spots. Over time, untreated water damage can compromise the entire driveway, leading to potholes or collapse.

Improper Drainage

A driveway needs proper grading to direct water away. If the slope is too flat or improperly designed, water collects on the surface or runs into weak areas. This constant exposure accelerates wear and contributes to the formation of cracks. Homeowners often see pooling water after rain as a warning sign that drainage corrections may be needed, along with crack repair.

Lack of Maintenance (No Sealcoating)

Sealcoating is one of the most effective ways to protect an asphalt driveway, but it’s often overlooked. Without it, the surface is exposed to UV rays, oil, water, and chemicals—all of which accelerate deterioration. Skipping regular sealcoating shortens a driveway’s lifespan and causes cracks to appear much sooner than they should.

Chemical Spills and Oil Leaks

Oil, gas, and antifreeze can break down asphalt on a chemical level. These substances soften the pavement, creating weak areas that eventually form cracks. Homeowners often notice dark stains on their driveway that later turn into visible surface damage. Cleaning spills quickly and addressing the affected areas is key to preventing deeper cracks.

Freezing Water

Even though Georgia winters are relatively mild, freezing temperatures still occur. When water seeps into existing cracks and freezes, it expands. This makes the cracks larger over time as the freeze-thaw cycle repeats. As temperatures rise, the ice melts, leaving behind weakened areas that are even more vulnerable. This freeze-thaw cycle is one of the most damaging natural forces for asphalt, and it explains why cracks seem to widen dramatically after winter.

Heavy Vehicle Loads

Asphalt driveways are designed for passenger cars and light trucks. Consistently parking heavy vehicles, like RVs, trailers, or delivery trucks, places more stress than the pavement was built to handle. Over time, the pressure causes indentations, fractures, and spreading cracks. Driveways that weren’t installed with a reinforced base are especially vulnerable to damage from heavy loads.

Age and Natural Wear

No matter how well it’s built, every driveway has a lifespan. Asphalt becomes brittle as it ages, losing the flexibility that allows it to withstand daily stress. Over time, the surface naturally develops cracks simply from long-term exposure to vehicles, weather, and sunlight. An older driveway showing multiple cracks and fading color is usually a sign that repaving may be the most cost-effective solution.

Schedule Your Asphalt Driveway Paving Consultation Today!

Small cracks in your driveway may seem harmless at first, but they are a warning sign of bigger issues to come. By understanding what causes cracks and taking preventative steps, you can extend the life of your asphalt and protect your investment.

At A&A Asphalt Paving, we specialize in asphalt driveway repair, resurfacing, and replacement for homeowners in Atlanta, Georgia. Our team uses high-quality materials and proven techniques to restore driveways and prevent future damage. Don’t let small cracks turn into major repairs. Contact A&A Asphalt Paving today to schedule your complimentary driveway consultation.