Driveways are such an important part of a home – they add curb appeal, they remain sturdy for years, despite the wear and tear from vehicle usage, and when properly paved by a professional asphalt paving company, they can last for decades!
And even while driveways play such an important part of our home’s exterior design – along with many other functions, their damages can often go unnoticed or ignored, which can end up leading to a host of financial and emotional issues. This is why we can’t stress enough that driveways need to be taken seriously. Small damages, like potholes and cracks, can continue to grow to such an extent that eventually the entire driveway itself will need replacing.
To help homeowners and renters like yourself, we’ve created a guide that can give you an idea of what to look out for when it comes to proper driveway maintenance. At the first signs of wear, make sure to contact a paving specialist with experience in residential driveway paving; they can help determine any underlying issues you may have and prevent further, expensive damage.
Signs of Asphalt Driveway Damage
To ensure the longevity and quality of your driveway, here are a few issues to look out for. It’s also not recommended to try and fix any of these yourself as asphalt driveways can be extremely temperamental when handled or applied incorrectly.
The most important thing you can do as a home owner or renter is keep an eye on your driveway and contact an asphalt professional to assess damages and devise a resurfacing plan.
Cracks
While cracks may seem harmless, they’re actually one of the biggest reasons why so many driveways require a full replacement. Even small cracks can allow oil, water, gas, and other environmental substances to penetrate which, over time, can cause the asphalt to expand from freeze-thaw weathering.
Potholes
Potholes, like cracks, are created by both environmental and man-made sources and can also lead to an eventual replacement if not properly treated in time. Potholes can continue to expand in changing weather and can be unsafe for heavier vehicles, as they typically indicate a decrease in support capabilities.
Water Pooling or Drainage
As asphalt is a porous material, water pooling and damage to drainage can lead to cracks, potholes, and further deterioration of a driveway’s structure. If you begin to notice pooling in certain areas or streams of running water, it’s time to get it checked by professionals.
Crumbling Edges
If you start to notice that the edges of your driveway are crumbling, it might be an indicator of erosion and will need to be repaired, as this can further lead to bigger issues like water damage. It can also indicate that the asphalt’s foundation is simply too thin, which can be determined easily by a professional.
Aging or Wear
While driveways can last 15-20 years, they do eventually wear out and need routine maintenance – it is a heavily trafficked area, after all.
If a driveway is showing serious wear and tear, it might just be smarter to replace it and start new with a fresh, high-quality base. Luckily, A. Macchione Brothers offer a completely free estimation to determine which option is best for you and your family.
Repair or Replace your Driveway Today with A. Macchione Brothers!
Is your driveway in need of repair or repaving? We’re here to help!
For 37 years, we’ve been the trusted name in asphalt paving for the Northern New Jersey/ Northern Bergen County area and we know we can provide the quality service you’re looking for at a price you can afford.
For more information on driveway paving or to get an estimation, please contact us today!
