A cracked and crumbling driveway is a major nuisance and decreases curb appeal. However, it can be difficult to tell when you should replace your driveway and when it simply needs a repair. When do you need a new driveway?
How Long Does a Driveway Last?
Your driveway’s lifespan depends on several factors, including climate, maintenance, and, of course, type. Generally speaking, you will choose between an asphalt driveway and a concrete driveway, both of which have their pros and cons.
Asphalt driveways can last about 20 years and are very easy to repair should the need arise. Additionally, asphalt driveways cost less money to install than their concrete competitors.
A well-maintained concrete driveway has an average lifespan of about 30 years depending on wear and climate. However, concrete driveways cost more money upfront, and they can be difficult to repair. Consequently, a damaged concrete driveway is likely to cost you more money than an asphalt one.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Driveway
So, when should you replace your driveway? Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about starting from scratch every time a new crack or crumble appears. Learn the difference between small issues and these red flags so you can know when you need to call the Paving Company.
Standing Water
Driveways are built on a slope so that rainfall and other sources of water can drain efficiently. If you notice that your driveway resembles a small pond every time it rains, that means the material has worn away and leveled out, or has sunken in various areas. Not only is it a pain to walk through, but standing water will also further damage your concrete or asphalt over time.
Spiderweb Cracks
It is important to note that all paving materials will develop small cracks over time. However, large spiderweb cracks indicate that the integrity of your driveway’s structure has been compromised. Unless nipped in the bud early, these cracks will eventually cause permanent damage.
Deep Holes
Potholes in your driveway are generally the result of the foundation wearing away. The asphalt then “sinks” into the empty space and often cracks, causing harsh gaps that take a toll on your tires. Potholes are also dangerous because they collect standing water.
The occasional stray pothole can be fixed on its own, but if your concrete or asphalt is riddled with them, you probably just need to strip everything and start fresh.
Crumbling Edges
Asphalt often crumbles in thin areas, such as your curb. Additionally, constant rainfall or flooding can wash asphalt away, causing it to crumble in sloping areas. To remedy this problem, you can either replace your driveway entirely, or you can call a professional who specializes in curb repair.
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As we already mentioned, the average lifespan of a perfectly-maintained driveway can be as much as 20-30 years. If you experience any major problems and yours is getting close to that age, it’s usually better to invest your money in a replacement. Otherwise, you risk paying for a repair and then having to replace it anyway in a year or two.
Simple Driveway Maintenance Tips
Remember, a well-maintained driveway always lasts longer than one that’s been neglected. Increase the lifespan of your driveway and save money on a replacement by taking the following precautions.
Make necessary repairs early.
Keep an eye on your driveway, and tend to problems as soon as possible. This will prevent them from growing into larger, more expensive problems.
Fill cracks.
Along the same line, make sure you fill cracks as soon as you notice them. Otherwise, they will spread and your driveway will become a second Pangaea.
Sealcoat the Asphalt.
Sealcoating acts as a protective barrier against oil, rain, sun, etc. It preserves your driveway’s integrity and increases its lifespan.
How Can Walt’s Paving Help?
You can count on Walt’s Paving to complete your residential or commercial paving project in an efficient and timely manner. We have over 40 years of experience paving asphalt driveways, making asphalt repairs, and sealcoating asphalt. We are located in Osceola IN and service homeowners and businesses within 50 miles of Elkhart IN. Call us today.
