Asphalt is a reliable, flexible material that comes with many benefits for your driveway. Over time, however, asphalt will show signs of age, wear, and tear. Below are five ways to know it is time for new asphalt paving.

How to Know You Need Asphalt Paving

1. Potholes

A clear sign that you need new asphalt is that you have potholes in your driveway. Potholes usually occur when other imperfections like cracks and dents do not get repaired, and moisture gets inside. Water expands and contracts depending on the temperature, which further compromises the driveway’s surface. Once heavy vehicles and other traffic exert pressure, holes develop. To avoid more damage and even injuries and vehicle trouble, call for paving services.

2. Pooling Water

If you notice standing water in your driveway, your property is not draining properly. Puddles, especially after a heavy storm, will lead to potholes and damage to the foundation as water seeps inside. Water will negatively impact the binding agent in asphalt, weakening the surface and shortening its lifespan.

3. Alligator Cracking

Alligator cracks look like the scaly skin of the animal for which they are named. Most likely, the foundation is breaking down, probably due to water damage. Even though these cracks are shallow, they can spread and lead to greater trouble. Small areas are not an immediate concern, but cracks wider than a quarter of an inch should be dealt with promptly.

4. Fading

Over time, the sun’s UV rays will fade the black color of asphalt. Besides making your driveway look gray and dull, UV rays can weaken the paving and make it more likely to crack and form holes.

5. Warping

When driveways show signs of warping, it is usually from heavy vehicle traffic in the area. You may also notice sinking sections, which usually occur when the base layer begins to erode over time, especially when exposed to water.

When you are ready to update your asphalt, call North Central Paving. Since 1985, this family-owned paving contractor in Onalaska, WI, has offered asphalt paving and repair as well as seal coating to customers throughout LaCrosse, Juneau, Sauk, Monroe, and Columbia Counties. Their hands-on approach has garnered them a stellar reputation as the company to call for residential paving services. Their professional, fully-licensed team uses the top equipment available for the best results every time. Call (608) 781-4423 for an appointment or visit them online for a look at their gallery.