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When Should You Replace Your Asphalt Driveway?

Admin • Jun 29, 2021

Asphalt Driveway — Kansas City, MO — J & B Asphalt & Paving

Asphalt is a top choice for residential and commercial driveways due to its sleek black look, lower upfront cost, low maintenance, and durability. You can expect an asphalt driveway to serve you for 15 to 20 years when well-maintained.

However, factors such as heavy traffic, inclement weather, and inadequate maintenance can reduce your driveway's lifespan. Also, after years of use, your driveway may wear out and require replacement. Learn six signs it is time to retire your driveway and call asphalt experts to replace it.

Extensive Cracking

Cracks emanate from moisture and water seeping into your driveway's foundation. Severe cracks, also called alligator cracks, resemble the rough skin of an alligator and divide your driveway into small broken parts. They show that your driveway is deteriorating.

If you notice one or two cracks on your asphalt, call an asphalt specialist to repair them immediately before they cause extensive damage and require expensive damage. Replacing the driveway is the best line of action if the cracks are wide and deep. Repairing bigger cracks is a short-term remedy, and you may still require to replace your asphalt in the long run.

Numerous Potholes

Typically, potholes spring from unrepaired cracks and allow water to accumulate underneath your pavement. The water freezes and pressurizes the asphalt, causing it to crack, collapse, and create a pothole.

Potholes are detrimental to your driveway as they reduce usable parking spaces, damage vehicles, and cause safety concerns for your family and pedestrians. For instance, driving over a deep pothole can hurt your car's tires and suspension.

While you can repair a few potholes, large potholes throughout your driveway require replacement to maintain use and promote safety.

Stagnant Water

With alligator cracks and huge potholes, your asphalt driveway may develop drainage problems. You may notice standing water, especially after heavy rains or snow. Also, your driveway may have drainage issues if it is uneven or sloped, causing water to pool in different areas.

Stagnant water intensifies cracks as more water makes its way into the asphalt's foundation and results in structural damage. The best way to rectify drainage issues on your asphalt is to install a new layer of asphalt.

Faded Driveway

Asphalt driveways excite many homeowners with their sleek and smooth black color, which increases a property's curb appeal. However, as the asphalt ages, it may start to fade. Also, the sun's UV rays can discolor and weaken the driveway while increasing its susceptibility to potholes and cracks.

If your asphalt has lost its color and becomes unsightly, contact a professional to determine whether replacement is necessary. The professional can recommend seal coating to restore its color and increase its appeal or replacement if there is substantial damage to the driveway's structure.

Lack of Resealing

Regular maintenance, including resealing your asphalt every two or three years, is fundamental to keep your asphalt looking great and prolong its lifespan. Resealing your asphalt helps to protect it from the elements, minimize repairs, and enhance its appearance.

If you haven't resealed your driveway in a long time, it may have suffered significant damage that warrants replacement. The cost of repairing it could be more than that of installing new asphalt.

An Old Driveway

A driveway that has seen better days is a good candidate for replacement. After decades of daily use, exposure to weather elements, and harsh chemicals including engine oil and cleaning detergents, your driveway may be at the end of its life. You may experience a combination of the issues discussed above, from cracks to potholes and drainage issues.

An old and damaged driveway damages your home's curb appeal and could result in liability issues in case of an accident or injury. Contact J & B Asphalt & Paving for asphalt replacement, installation, and repair in Kansas City. We have highly skilled employees and decades of experience to get the job done right the first time.

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Common Asphalt Paving Mistakes You Should Know About

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Asphalt paving is important in constructing and maintaining roads, driveways, and parking lots. It is a low-cost, long-lasting material that withstands heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions. But a few common mistakes can be made when paving with asphalt, leading to a weak surface that only lasts for a short time. Here are some of the most common blunders to avoid when paving with asphalt. Inadequate Base Preparation The asphalt surface will probably crack and get holes over time if it is not leveled or packed down well. The base must be excavated to a specific depth and width before the asphalt can be laid. The base material should mix crushed stone, gravel, and sand to provide a stable and long-lasting foundation for the asphalt. Then, this material should be leveled and pressed down with a roller to make a smooth, stable asphalt surface. Using the Incorrect Asphalt Mix The asphalt mix is made by mixing asphalt cement with a certain amount of aggregate, such as crushed stone, gravel, or sand. The ratio of aggregate to asphalt cement will change based on how the surface will be used and how much traffic it will get. When the wrong mix is used, the surface becomes weaker and more prone to cracking and damage. A mix that is too heavy on aggregate and too light on asphalt cement, for example, will not provide enough stability and will crack under heavy traffic. A mix that is too heavy on the asphalt cement and too light on the aggregate, on the other hand, will be more prone to rutting and deformation. Not Properly Compacting the Asphalt After laying the asphalt, it should be compacted with a roller. Compacting the asphalt removes air pockets and ensures a smooth and stable surface. Asphalt that has not been properly compacted is more prone to cracking and shifting. Compaction should be done in multiple passes, beginning with a light pass to remove any air pockets, followed by heavier passes to ensure a smooth and stable surface. The installer should move the roller slowly to ensure the asphalt is properly packed. Leaving the Asphalt Unsealed Sealing the asphalt will protect it from the elements and extend its life. A seal coat is a thin layer of asphalt that is poured over the asphalt. This liquid asphalt layer will shield the surface from water, oil, and UV rays. If the asphalt is not sealed, it is more likely to crack and be damaged by water, oil, and UV rays. The seal coat should be applied a few months after asphalt installation to let the asphalt fully cure. Not Using a Professional Asphalt Contractor Hiring a contractor who isn't qualified or doesn't have enough experience can lead to bad work, a weak surface that doesn't last long, and even expensive repairs or complete repaving. However, a professional contractor will know how to prepare the foundation, use the right mix, pack down the asphalt, and seal it. Working with a professional contractor ensures all permits and inspections are in place and that the work is done according to local rules and codes. They will also have all the tools and resources they need to do the job well and quickly. Look no further than J & B Asphalt & Paving for professional asphalt paving services. Our skilled and experienced professionals are dedicated to delivering lasting, high-quality results. We take special care to ensure a smooth and long-lasting surface. In addition, our team is up to date on all requirements to ensure your work is done per local codes and regulations. Don't take any chances regarding your asphalt paving requirements. Contact us today to set up a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you with your next project.