Owning a home comes with the responsibility of maintaining your property, which includes the upkeep of your asphalt driveway. Over time, wear and tear can cause cracks, potholes, and other types of damage that may require repairs or resurfacing. In this article, we’ll help you determine when it’s time to repair or resurface your asphalt driveway and provide tips for maintaining it in the future.
Signs Your Driveway Needs Repair
- Cracks: Minor cracks can appear as your driveway ages, but if they’re more extensive and continue to widen, it may be time to consider repairs. Ignoring these cracks can lead to further damage and potentially hazardous conditions.
- Potholes: Potholes are not only unsightly but can also cause damage to vehicles and even pose a safety threat. Consider repairing these problem areas before they become bigger and costlier issues.
- Drainage problems: Proper drainage is crucial to the longevity of your driveway. Inadequate drainage can lead to water seeping under the asphalt, causing cracks and potholes. If water has nowhere to go and begins pooling on your driveway, consider repairing the affected areas.
When to Opt for Driveway Resurfacing?
If your driveway has reached the point where repairs alone aren’t enough to address its condition, it may be time to consider driveway resurfacing in Atlanta. Resurfacing involves adding a new layer of asphalt over the existing surface, giving your driveway a fresh, revitalized appearance. Some reasons to resurface include:
- Extensive cracking: When there are many cracks, or they are widespread across your driveway, resurfacing can be a cost-effective solution to address the problem.
- Age: The average lifespan of an asphalt driveway is approximately 15-20 years. If your driveway is approaching this age and is showing signs of damage, resurfacing is a viable option to breathe new life into your driveway.
- General wear and tear: If your driveway has become worn and faded, resurfacing can restore its appearance and extend its lifespan.
Maintaining Your Driveway After Repairs and Resurfacing
After investing in driveway repairs or resurfacing, proper maintenance is crucial to keep it looking and functioning at its best. Follow these tips to prolong the life of your driveway:
Sealcoating
Sealcoating is a protective layer applied to the surface of asphalt that helps protect it from the elements. Consider having your driveway professionally sealed every 2-3 years.
Regular cleaning
Keeping your driveway free of debris and regularly sweeping it can prevent dirt and grime buildup, which contributes to the degradation of the asphalt.
Addressing damage promptly
Don’t wait for minor issues to become severe problems. Addressing cracks and other damage as soon as they appear can save you money and extend the life of your driveway.
To Wrap Up
By following these tips and being mindful of the signs that it may be time to repair or resurface your asphalt driveway, you can ensure it remains in good condition for years to come. To learn more, for instance, what causes rust stains on concrete driveways, you can check out this blog post. With the right care and maintenance, you can get the most out of your asphalt driveway. Thank you for reading!