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When Should You Replace Your Asphalt Driveway?

Admin • June 29, 2021

Asphalt Driveway — Kansas City, MO — J & B Asphalt & Paving

Asphalt is a top choice for residential and commercial driveways due to its sleek black look, lower upfront cost, low maintenance, and durability. You can expect an asphalt driveway to serve you for 15 to 20 years when well-maintained.

However, factors such as heavy traffic, inclement weather, and inadequate maintenance can reduce your driveway's lifespan. Also, after years of use, your driveway may wear out and require replacement. Learn six signs it is time to retire your driveway and call asphalt experts to replace it.

Extensive Cracking

Cracks emanate from moisture and water seeping into your driveway's foundation. Severe cracks, also called alligator cracks, resemble the rough skin of an alligator and divide your driveway into small broken parts. They show that your driveway is deteriorating.

If you notice one or two cracks on your asphalt, call an asphalt specialist to repair them immediately before they cause extensive damage and require expensive damage. Replacing the driveway is the best line of action if the cracks are wide and deep. Repairing bigger cracks is a short-term remedy, and you may still require to replace your asphalt in the long run.

Numerous Potholes

Typically, potholes spring from unrepaired cracks and allow water to accumulate underneath your pavement. The water freezes and pressurizes the asphalt, causing it to crack, collapse, and create a pothole.

Potholes are detrimental to your driveway as they reduce usable parking spaces, damage vehicles, and cause safety concerns for your family and pedestrians. For instance, driving over a deep pothole can hurt your car's tires and suspension.

While you can repair a few potholes, large potholes throughout your driveway require replacement to maintain use and promote safety.

Stagnant Water

With alligator cracks and huge potholes, your asphalt driveway may develop drainage problems. You may notice standing water, especially after heavy rains or snow. Also, your driveway may have drainage issues if it is uneven or sloped, causing water to pool in different areas.

Stagnant water intensifies cracks as more water makes its way into the asphalt's foundation and results in structural damage. The best way to rectify drainage issues on your asphalt is to install a new layer of asphalt.

Faded Driveway

Asphalt driveways excite many homeowners with their sleek and smooth black color, which increases a property's curb appeal. However, as the asphalt ages, it may start to fade. Also, the sun's UV rays can discolor and weaken the driveway while increasing its susceptibility to potholes and cracks.

If your asphalt has lost its color and becomes unsightly, contact a professional to determine whether replacement is necessary. The professional can recommend seal coating to restore its color and increase its appeal or replacement if there is substantial damage to the driveway's structure.

Lack of Resealing

Regular maintenance, including resealing your asphalt every two or three years, is fundamental to keep your asphalt looking great and prolong its lifespan. Resealing your asphalt helps to protect it from the elements, minimize repairs, and enhance its appearance.

If you haven't resealed your driveway in a long time, it may have suffered significant damage that warrants replacement. The cost of repairing it could be more than that of installing new asphalt.

An Old Driveway

A driveway that has seen better days is a good candidate for replacement. After decades of daily use, exposure to weather elements, and harsh chemicals including engine oil and cleaning detergents, your driveway may be at the end of its life. You may experience a combination of the issues discussed above, from cracks to potholes and drainage issues.

An old and damaged driveway damages your home's curb appeal and could result in liability issues in case of an accident or injury. Contact J & B Asphalt & Paving for asphalt replacement, installation, and repair in Kansas City. We have highly skilled employees and decades of experience to get the job done right the first time.

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