Asphalt driveways can last up to five years, but they can also need repairs. Cracking and settling are common problems. Cracks can also create potholes, which can be very dangerous. In these cases, driveway resurfacing is the best option. Potholes can damage the tires and suspensions of vehicles.
The best way to decide if you need to have your driveway resurfaced is to inspect the current condition of your driveway closely. If there are cracks in the asphalt that are at least a quarter of an inch deep and wider, you may need to consider resurfacing. It’s also wise to schedule resurfacing as soon as possible because delayed resurfacing can result in structural damage.
Driveway resurfacing can be a cost-effective solution for damaged asphalt. While spot-filling is an option, you might find that the results aren’t long-lasting and may leave unsightly lines. Ultimately, it’s the best solution for repairing damaged asphalt and creating a seamless, beautiful driveway.
Resurfacing your asphalt driveway can make it look brand-new again and cost less than replacing it. Resurfacing a driveway can cost between £3 and £7 per square foot and is a much more affordable option than installing a new driveway. Resurfacing also requires less maintenance than installing a new one. In addition, driveway resurfacing can last as long as 15 to 20 years with proper care.
What You Need to Know About Driveway Maintenance and Repair
If you have an asphalt driveway, there are many things you can do to maintain its quality. This will not only extend its life, but will also keep it looking good. Regularly inspect it for cracks and edges. Also, make sure sprinkler heads are in good condition. Sprinkler heads will help water the driveway and help keep it clean. You should also regularly broom the driveway to prevent dirt and tree sap from building up.
Cracks in the driveway need to be patched and sealed before they cause water seepage. Otherwise, water will seep in and destabilize the gravel fill underneath the asphalt, causing it to crumble. Patching cracks can be easy to do and will prevent further damage. You can also use an asphalt patching product that blends in with your driveway’s surface. This material will match the color of the rest of the driveway.
If you live in a warm climate, a driveway that is treated with a special sealant will prevent the water from seeping in and causing cracks. Applying a sealant will also help prevent damage from freezing and melting. It also will reduce tripping accidents in the driveway.
If you have an asphalt driveway, it is important to wash the surface regularly to check for cracks. Small cracks can develop into larger ones, so make sure to inspect it for small cracks as soon as you notice them. Keeping the surface clean will help prevent further damage and save you a lot of money in the long run.
If your driveway is asphalt or concrete, you may need to reseal it once in three to five years. Avoid applying de-icers on asphalt driveways, since the salts can weaken the concrete. Plastic snow shovels will also not scratch the surface.
Driveways are frequently neglected, and they can be damaged by many different things. Motor oil, de-icing materials, freezing temperatures, and the weight of vehicles can all cause damage. If you use rock salt, you may also want to consider applying calcium or magnesium chloride to the surface of your driveway. This is a safer alternative that won’t hurt the environment or hurt your pets.
Cracks in your asphalt driveway should be repaired promptly. Severe cracks will weaken the structure of the asphalt and cause further damage to the driveway. Fortunately, cracks that are small enough can be repaired with an asphalt sealant. However, large cracks will require a more intensive effort.
When it comes to resurfacing repairs, you can either fix the damage yourself or hire someone to fix the problem. For minor cracks, patching will do the trick. Patching will only fix small cracks that are less than a quarter inch wide. However, if your driveway is severely cracked and needs a lot of work, resurfacing it will be a better option. It is a less expensive alternative to laying a new driveway.
How to resurface a Driveway
The first step in driveway resurfacing an asphalt driveway is to remove the old surface and dispose of it. The contractor will then spread a sub-grade evenly over the entire surface area. After that, he will compact and wet the surface. This process will ensure a solid support structure for the impending pavement. The process also includes identifying any soft areas that may need repair. The contractor will also mix a binder, which is a mixture of large aggregate mixed with oil. Once the binder is mixed, he will apply it with a three-inch-wide paint brush.
