Spring will soon be upon us more rapidly than we anticipate, and when it arrives, we tend to get outside more. However, the harsher months of winter take their toll on more than just plant life, did you know that your driveway takes a beating during this time? It is not uncommon to find issues with your asphalt when spring arrives, but what is important is to address them promptly. However, don’t worry because Uniform Paving & Sealcoating paving contractors offer professional driveway repair and maintenance.
Types of Driveway Repair
You may not give much thought to your driveway in your day-to-day activities, and a good driveway that is functioning well will make this easy to do. However, eventually, asphalt does begin to deteriorate and cause issues. Below are some common types of repair services we assist our clients with.
Sealcoating
The first signs you will notice that your driveway’s asphalt is beginning to go downhill is when it turns grey. There is nothing quite like a freshly paved road, but it will not stay that deep rich black forever. As the ultraviolet rays from the sun penetrate your asphalt, they will cause the components that it consists of to oxidize. The oxidation process damages the bitumen, petroleum-based binder, to break down, and as it deteriorates, the dark nature of your asphalt fades.
Nevertheless, you can help your pavement last longer and prevent undue fading by regularly maintaining it with sealcoating. Sealcoating is the process where hot liquid asphalt is sprayed onto the pavement and allowed to seep into its pores. The liquid is actually replenishing the original binder that has oxidized. Sealing your driveway also creates a protective barrier against the natural elements, thus, prolonging the life of your driveway.
Crack Repair
An asphalt drive will get small cracks eventually, but don’t ignore them because, with repeated traffic, they will only get worse. Most hairline cracks can be repaired with sealcoating.
Patch Repair
If cracks are left untreated for too long, they will eventually cause divots, which then turn into potholes. Any hole in your pavement is a disaster waiting to happen because your asphalt is already vulnerable at this stage.
Potholes are dangerous for both pedestrians and vehicles alike. They can knock a car out of alignment or cause someone to trip and fall. Each of which could result in your having to pay for unexpected expenses as a homeowner.
If you notice a hole in your pavement, contact a paving contractor as soon as possible because it can be repaired with ease by merely patching it with new asphalt. Patching holes is an easy solution and a great way to prevent further issues as long as it is addressed quickly.
Driveway Resurfacing
If your driveway has some age to it and is showing many signs of wear and tear with a lot of cracks and holes, it does not mean you have to hire someone to repave it for you entirely immediately. Instead, consider having your driveway resurfaced.
When your asphalt is resurfaced, the top layer is removed while leaving the base intact. If the subbase is still in decent shape, then a new layer of asphalt can be applied. Resurfacing your driveway can be completed at a fraction of the cost of a new one by using what is already there. Yet, the end product looks like a brand new driveway.
Driveway Replacement
Nonetheless, asphalt, no matter how many times you repair it, will eventually need to be replaced. On average, a traditional asphalt paved driveway will last upwards of 20 to 30 years. Of course, many factors go into deciding if it is time to fully replace it or not, such as the environment, amount of traffic, and more. If your road is pushing its lifespan, then you may want to consider entirely replacing it.
Regardless of what your asphalt paving needs are, Uniform Paving & Sealcoating is here to help you address them. Being proactive about issues you find is paramount to making your asphalt last longer. Yet, if you find you need help with repairs, don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information.