Look for these signs to know if you need to look for a professional specializing in asphalt driveway repair!
Driveway damage often creeps up unnoticed. It’s typical for homeowners not to think they have a problem until the irregularities’ scope can’t be ignored. If you have questions about whether you need asphalt driveway repair, this article will help shed some light on signs it’s time to hire a professional.
The goal of a driveway repair is to prevent further damage to the asphalt. By getting ahead of issues as they arise–before they become major issues–you can get a driveway repair instead of a replacement. A proactive approach to driveway maintenance saves you money by extending the life of your current driveway.
There are numerous ways a driveway can become damaged. These include various liquids, ice formation, the number of vehicles, and these vehicles’ weight. Parking two Honda Fits on a driveway is very different from parking your tractor-trailer. To find out if you need a driveway repair, let’s take a look at common signs.
Driveway Repair Signs
Driveway repair is an excellent option if the underlying foundation of the driveway is still intact. When the driveway is still less than ten years old, the issues below should only be surface level, allowing you to get by with simple repairs instead of more costly and intensive options.
- Numerous cracks in the asphalt. Each one of these cracks has the potential to grow. Water gets into the crack, freezes, and expands or lengthens the cracks, increasing the risk of further damage. Keep an especially close eye for weeds/plants against the black backdrop of asphalt. These are useful markers where cracks are located.
- Pothole/Sunken Areas. These are quick repairs that can save you from a more significant resurfacing job in the future. If left unaddressed, the areas lower than the rest of the driveway could spread, increasing the risk of deep fissures in the asphalt.
- Faded Color. Lack of deep-black color signifies that the driveway needs to be resealed to prevent cracks from emerging. It’s a quick repair that could add years to the life of your current driveway.
- Crumbling edges. If the boundaries aren’t firm, there’s a good chance further damage is in the future, particularly with fluctuations in temperature.
Although the flower is beautiful, the crack is not!
What’s the difference between driveway repair, resurfacing, and replacement?
A driveway repair is when a professional comes to your home and fixes individual issues with the asphalt. Repairs could also include resealing, a protective coating that prevents cracks from forming and keeps your driveway looking great.
Driveway resurfacing is the addition or replacement of just the top layer of asphalt. Resurfacing is the middle ground between repair and replacement.
Driveway replacement is a full-scale overhaul of the existing structure. It’s the most labor-intensive, requires the most materials, and costs the most.
Driveway replacement requires the most labor.
How long does an asphalt driveway last?
Asphalt driveways can be expected to last between 15-20 years. This estimate assumes consistent maintenance, such as resealing the driveway, and minor repairs when they are needed.
The best thing to do is to take action.
If you’re uncertain if you’re in need of driveway repairs, you can reach out to a professional. Please don’t put it off for another season; extreme weather conditions could cause further damage!
If you’re in the greater Atlanta area, the experts at Revere Construction and Roofing have decades of experience helping homeowners maintain their driveways. Reach out now via our contact page for a free estimate!
Now that we’ve gone over the criteria for driveway repairs keep a lookout for our next article. In it, we will dive into what to look for to know whether or not you need to replace your driveway!
