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Questions About Home Buying, Asphalt Driveways, and Your Options

August 3, 2022

Are you buying a new home with an old asphalt driveway? If your real estate investment includes a less-than-desirable driveway space, take a look at what you need to know about asphalt damage, repairs, replacements, and your options.

Do You Always Need to Repair a Damaged Driveway?

The short answer to this question is yes. But this isn't the whole picture. While asphalt is a durable driveway material, it can crack or pit with wear, weather, and use (especially if this use includes road salt or other deicing products). What might seem like a few small cracks can eventually turn into a more serious issue. This makes it important to treat all damage — both minor and major — as soon as possible.

If your future new home's driveway has cracks, potholes, or even smaller-sized wear or damage, contact a qualified paving contractor. Homebuyers who want to factor in the cost of repairs or learn more about the extent of the damage will need a pre-sales inspection. Don't rely on a general home inspector to accurately assess the costs related to asphalt driveway damage or recommend repairs or replacement. Only a specialist should provide these services.

Failure to repair damage to an asphalt driveway could result in a much larger problem months or years into your new homeownership. Cracks won't stay put or stop. Instead, these issues are likely to grow and cause more problems for your driveway. If your potential home pick does have cracking, potholes, or other asphalt issues, prepare to repair or replace the driveway.

Can You Repair a Damaged Driveway?

You can repair some types of damage. Minor damage that hasn't spread is fairly easy for a qualified paving contractor to repair. A contractor can assess the issue and fill the cracks. They can also seal the driveway to reduce the risks of future damage and help to maintain a smooth, even surface.

Significant wear or damage may require more than just filler and sealant. Large potholes or a spider web of cracks may need a larger or more complex fix. If the contractor can't repair the driveway, they will need to replace it. While some companies may offer an inexpensive repaving service (covering the top, damaged layer with a fresh layer of asphalt), this won't always work and may leave the driveway vulnerable.

Unevenness, deep holes, and other similar issues may require a complete removal. After the contractor removes the top layer of asphalt, they may need to create a new subbase. This will help to even out the area and create a stable space for the asphalt.

Who Will Pay for the Repairs or Asphalt Replacement?

Your new home is your responsibility. Unlike storm damage to a roof, homeowners insurance won't pay for wear-related asphalt driveway repair. This means you will need to cover the costs of the repair or replacement.

If you haven't signed the sales agreement yet, the seller may help to or fully pay for the driveway. Some buyers use this type of repair or replacement issue as a bargaining tool during the real estate negotiation process.

Again, a general home inspector is not the right professional to provide a full report or evaluation of the asphalt. To learn more about the driveway, the true condition of the asphalt, and the repair or replacement costs, consult a paving contractor prior to purchasing your would-be future home. The seller may need to agree to a third-party estimate before you invite a contractor to their home or they may want to use their own paving company.

Do you want to learn more about your asphalt driveway repair and replacement options? Contact J & B Asphalt & Paving for more information.

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Common Asphalt Paving Mistakes You Should Know About

February 1, 2023

Asphalt paving is important in constructing and maintaining roads, driveways, and parking lots. It is a low-cost, long-lasting material that withstands heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions. But a few common mistakes can be made when paving with asphalt, leading to a weak surface that only lasts for a short time. Here are some of the most common blunders to avoid when paving with asphalt. Inadequate Base Preparation The asphalt surface will probably crack and get holes over time if it is not leveled or packed down well. The base must be excavated to a specific depth and width before the asphalt can be laid. The base material should mix crushed stone, gravel, and sand to provide a stable and long-lasting foundation for the asphalt. Then, this material should be leveled and pressed down with a roller to make a smooth, stable asphalt surface. Using the Incorrect Asphalt Mix The asphalt mix is made by mixing asphalt cement with a certain amount of aggregate, such as crushed stone, gravel, or sand. The ratio of aggregate to asphalt cement will change based on how the surface will be used and how much traffic it will get. When the wrong mix is used, the surface becomes weaker and more prone to cracking and damage. A mix that is too heavy on aggregate and too light on asphalt cement, for example, will not provide enough stability and will crack under heavy traffic. A mix that is too heavy on the asphalt cement and too light on the aggregate, on the other hand, will be more prone to rutting and deformation. Not Properly Compacting the Asphalt After laying the asphalt, it should be compacted with a roller. Compacting the asphalt removes air pockets and ensures a smooth and stable surface. Asphalt that has not been properly compacted is more prone to cracking and shifting. Compaction should be done in multiple passes, beginning with a light pass to remove any air pockets, followed by heavier passes to ensure a smooth and stable surface. The installer should move the roller slowly to ensure the asphalt is properly packed. Leaving the Asphalt Unsealed Sealing the asphalt will protect it from the elements and extend its life. A seal coat is a thin layer of asphalt that is poured over the asphalt. This liquid asphalt layer will shield the surface from water, oil, and UV rays. If the asphalt is not sealed, it is more likely to crack and be damaged by water, oil, and UV rays. The seal coat should be applied a few months after asphalt installation to let the asphalt fully cure. Not Using a Professional Asphalt Contractor Hiring a contractor who isn't qualified or doesn't have enough experience can lead to bad work, a weak surface that doesn't last long, and even expensive repairs or complete repaving. However, a professional contractor will know how to prepare the foundation, use the right mix, pack down the asphalt, and seal it. Working with a professional contractor ensures all permits and inspections are in place and that the work is done according to local rules and codes. They will also have all the tools and resources they need to do the job well and quickly. Look no further than J & B Asphalt & Paving for professional asphalt paving services. Our skilled and experienced professionals are dedicated to delivering lasting, high-quality results. We take special care to ensure a smooth and long-lasting surface. In addition, our team is up to date on all requirements to ensure your work is done per local codes and regulations. Don't take any chances regarding your asphalt paving requirements. Contact us today to set up a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you with your next project.