Asphalt driveways are beautiful investments for any home.
Especially in colder climates, paving your driveway with asphalt can be beneficial in the long run as its pliable nature can make it more forgiving to snow and thaw cycles. The dark color also makes it easier to absorb the sun’s heat, especially during winter.
Asphalt is also more durable. Compared to concrete, asphalt has more flexibility and is less likely to crack.
Asphalt driveways are also easy to install and repair. Experienced paving companies can install your driveway in a relatively short amount of time depending on the area to be paved. It can be laid out in as short as a day or two, and be ready to use in as little as 48 hours.
Moreover, repairs are easy to carry out, as blacktop surfaces can easily hide any imperfections caused by tire tracks or other unsightly stains.
Because of its innate flexibility, asphalt driveways require minimal maintenance hence helping you save some money. The materials used are usually less expensive than other alternatives, translating to lower labor fees per square foot.
Asphalt Driveway Maintenance Tips
To keep it in good condition, proper care and maintenance must be done. Here are a few basic ways to keep your asphalt driveway in tip-top shape:
1. Inspect your driveway regularly.
Much like a favored car or appliance that you would regularly check on, your asphalt private road needs your attention. Have a general look-see at regular intervals to check for any cracks, splits or breaks.
By doing this, you can address potential issues immediately before they get bigger. Preventive maintenance can go a long way especially before the wet or winter weather sets in.
2. Seal it properly.
Your new asphalt driveway should be sealed to keep it from drying out and getting rough. Unprotected asphalt can rapidly deteriorate, forming ridges and incur damage due to freezing and thawing.
Asphalt driveway sealcoating can also prevent your private road from being damaged by gasoline, lubricant oils, road salts and antifreeze leaks from vehicles and other sources. Sealing hairline cracks will prevent it from further damage especially during the winter months. However, your paving company will advise you not to seal a driveway immediately after installation so just remember to schedule it with them ahead of time.
3. Keep it clean and clear of obstructions.
Aside from being unsightly, a messy driveway can also cause harm and injury to cars and people alike. At the same time, it can also cause undue damage to your driveway as those pebbles, stones or weeds can scratch and tear the asphalt.
Sweep regularly or call for a company that does property maintenance for the upkeep of your driveway.
4. Treat and repair immediately.
You don’t leave wounds open and get infected, right? The same goes for your asphalt driveway. The usual wear and tear can cause cracks or small fissures that can lead to even bigger potholes if left on their own.
Do not wait for the snow to arrive before having your repairs done. Enlist the help of a professional paving company in your area and have it sealed or treated based on their recommendations
Be careful of excess water seeping and spreading into cracks. When water seeps into these crevices, it can cause erosion and will cause your asphalt to have weak structural integrity.
To prevent or fix burst pipes, blocked sewers, or other damaging water-related problems in your yard and driveway, call for a professional plumber.
5. Practice careful use.
Your asphalt driveway also deserves your thoughtful care and consideration.
Keep automobile and foot traffic away from it for at least three days after installation (longer during hot weather).
While it is still curing, which usually takes six months to a year, be more cautious in parking your car. Take care not to turn your steering wheel back and forth if your car is stationary. Park in different places on your driveway if you can. Also, avoid skidding, peeling or turning around in tight spaces as these can cause scarring in your asphalt.
Keep excessively heavy vehicles such as concrete or oil trucks off your new driveway. If you must keep a boat or camper in, remember to use plywood underneath the tongue jack and tires to keep the weight evenly distributed.
When the weather is scorching and the sun is bearing down on your asphalt, avoid walking with pointy heels on, placing lawn chairs, or parking bikes or motorcycles with kickstands on the driveway as these will cause depressions and holes.
For best results, get expert opinion. Your paving company should provide you with tried and tested recommendations on how to preserve and extend the life of your driveway.
With the benefits and aesthetic flexibility your asphalt driveway gives your home, investing in its proper use and care is definitely worth it.
AUTHOR BIO
Ron Shattuck Jr. Built Shattuck Paving into a trusted, reputable family business. Ron Jr. learned a lot about the industry and the hard work ethic that Ronald Sr. lived by, and has now followed in his father's shoes to operate the company and help it grow. Today, Shattuck Paving is more determined than ever to serve their customers' needs with integrity. No compromises!
