The driveway is an important feature of almost every home, providing a place to park vehicles or install basketball hoops and other activities for kids. Your asphalt driveway’s appearance will also impact your house’s curb appeal, creating a first impression for visitors and raising or lowering the entire structure’s value. How your driveway drains has a direct impact on these elements. 

What Kind of Damage Is Caused by Poor Drainage?

One of the most common issues resulting from improper drainage is cracked asphalt. When water is allowed to pool on the driveway during the winter, it might sink into the pores of the asphalt and freeze—which causes it to expand and create cracks. Improperly channeled rainfall can also wear down asphalt over time, making it appear shoddy and poorly maintained.

The other potential damages caused by improper drainage are equally serious. Water that’s not directed away from the house might sink to the foundation and weaken it, causing monumentally expensive damage in the long run. It can also flow into the yard and cause flooding and grass damage. Proper drainage can help avoid all of these issues.

How Do You Improve a Driveway’s Drainage?

Where drainage is concerned, the most important element is the slope of the driveway. The size of the gradient will depend on your particular situation and local construction regulations, but all driveways should direct water downward toward the road. If you find that water tends to pool in front of your garage, this could result from an insufficient slope. Consider installing a trench drain to carry water away from your home. This might be necessary for homes that sit below street level. A reputable contractor can determine whether trench installation is necessary for your asphalt driveway.

If you’re seeking a solution to drainage problems or other issues for your asphalt driveway, contact the experts at Jellisons Best Blacktop. This asphalt contractor has over 70 years of experience assisting home and business owners in the Shakopee, MN, region. They provide blacktop replacements, parking lot repairs, and a variety of other driveway solutions with a dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. Visit them online or call (952) 890-4664 to learn more about their services.