An asphalt driveway will last, on average, between 12 and 20 years. However, if you expect to get two decades out of it, you'll have to provide regular asphalt maintenance. The better you care for it, the longer your asphalt will last. Below are the do’s and don'ts of proper asphalt maintenance.

Do:

Sealcoat it.

Sealcoating creates a waterproof barrier that inhibits moisture absorption and prevents damage from the sun's UV rays. For the best results, apply sealcoating to your asphalt driveway or patio once every three to five years. If your paving sees a lot of sun or must endure a lot of leaking vehicle fluids, consider sealcoating it more frequently.

Repair cracks and potholes promptly.

Cracks and holes admit moisture, which can freeze during winter and create additional damage as the moisture expands and fractures the asphalt further. To prevent rapid deterioration, prompt asphalt maintenance is key. Have any potholes or cracks patched as soon as possible.

Don't:

Let sprinklers water your asphalt.

Adjust your sprinklers so they water your lawn, not your driveway or patio. Water is one of the chief enemies of paving materials. Asphalt is porous and absorbs moisture, which can lead to cracks, and undermine the stability of the basecourse that the pavement sits on.

Drive heavy equipment on asphalt.

Your driveway is designed to accommodate cars and light trucks, not extremely heavy equipment. Don't allow construction equipment, heavy utility trucks, or other weighty vehicles to drive or park on your asphalt — it could suffer cracks and stress damage.

For professional asphalt maintenance assistance, contact Hot Mix Technical Services LLC — an experienced asphalt contractor in Germantown, OH. They have served clients in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and West Virginia for 25 years and have developed a reputation for high-quality work and a commitment to customer service. They also specialize in asphalt mix design and stockpile management. Visit their website to connect with them online or call (937) 545-1785 to schedule a consultation.