Your driveway is one of the most visible parts of your property. To keep it from becoming an eyesore, carry out preventive maintenance and repairs as soon as you spot signs of damage. If you’re worried about asphalt damage but not sure how to handle it, consider the options below.

Comparing Common Driveway Maintenance Methods

Repair

Driveway repair is best for property owners who notice minor cracks or potholes in their asphalt surface. However, it’s crucial to take action right away, scheduling repairs as soon as you notice the damage. If the cracks start to widen beyond a quarter of an inch or descend into the asphalt by more than a few inches, you’ll need to take more serious steps to repair the driveway.

Resurfacing

If the damage is widespread — taking up more than 25% of your driveway’s surface area — it’s time to consider more drastic measures. Talk to your contractor about asphalt resurfacing. First, they’ll remove the topmost layer of your driveway, so that all minor cracks and potholes are erased. Then they’ll cover the rough surface in a new, smooth layer of asphalt. You can expect these results to last for 8 to 15 years before any further maintenance is required. 

Replacement

If your damaged driveway is more than 20 years old, or if the foundation has been compromised, have it replaced. This is also the case if you’ve neglected repairs, and the cracks or potholes are more than a quarter-inch wide and several inches deep. To replace your driveway, a contractor will have to remove all existing asphalt and start from scratch. They’ll ensure the sub-base and base levels are smooth and compact, providing a solid foundation for your new driveway to rest on top of. Once replaced, you can expect your new asphalt surface to last around 20 years.

If you’d like to replace, repair, resurface, or seal coat your driveway, get in touch with Alpha Seal Coating, Pavement Maintenance, LLC of Glastonbury, CT. This family-owned and -operated company uses top-tier products to improve your property’s functionality and curb appeal. To learn more about their offerings, call (860) 816-0851 to schedule an estimate.