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If the asphalt in your driveway is cracked or damaged, and you’re not sure why, you may be hesitant to repair it. Why fix something that will likely just get damaged again? A crumbling driveway can hurt the curb appeal of your home, though, and if you do not repair it in a timely fashion, it is going to disintegrate to the point where you need to replace it entirely. Fortunately, when you know the most common causes of asphalt damage, you can prevent them. Below, the knowledgeable paving team at Beausoleil & Sons in Cranston, RI, explains why asphalt driveways often crack.

Why Does Asphalt Crack?

1. Poor Maintenance

Asphalt requires some regular maintenance; this includes sealing it every few years and repairing small cracks as soon as they occur. If you fail to maintain your driveway, it will become much more likely to crack over time.

2. Too Much Salt

asphaltThe winters in Rhode Island can be harsh, so a lot of homeowners put down salt to melt the snow and ice in their driveways. When salt melts snow and ice too quickly, though, the water can seep down into the asphalt, flooding it. When the temperature drops again, this water refreezes, expanding and exerting pressure on the surface until it eventually cracks. Avoid using any ice melting products in your driveway in the wintertime, and opt for sprinkling some sand down instead to provide added traction.

3. Improper Installation

A thin base or poorly constructed sub-base can make a driveway much more prone to damage and disintegration. Because improper installation is one of the most common reasons for asphalt cracking, it is essential to turn to a reputable company with extensive experience when it’s time to replace your driveway. Beware of companies that give you an incredibly low quote; they may use sand or dirt instead of crushed stone when building the base, which can result in cracks almost immediately.

If your asphalt driveway is cracked or crumbling, turn to Beausoleil & Sons in Cranston, RI. A family-owned and -operated business, they have been helping residents for more than 40 years. You can learn more about the services this paving contractor provides by visiting their website. To discuss your residential or commercial paving needs, call (401) 632-0203. 

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