Residential Asphalt Repair
Asphalt has been in use for centuries — most commonly as a paving material. Driveways, parking lots, roads, runways, and other surfaces exposed to vehicular traffic are made of asphalt, which is prized for its durability, moisture resistance, and flexibility.
Asphalt is a binder that is mixed with an aggregate composed of stone, sand, and gravel. It can withstand extreme weather, and its properties make it an ideal material for waterproofing, sealing, and insulation — all keys to a stable driveway.
Benefits Of Asphalt Repair
Though asphalt is hardy, over time it will degrade, making driveway repair necessary. Moisture erodes the pavement, causing cracks. These grow larger as the asphalt expands and contracts in response to regular freeze-and-thaw cycles. Other factors that impact the life of your driveway include:
- Extreme weather conditions
- Ultraviolet radiation
- Grease, gas, and oil spills
- Salt stains
- Expanding tree roots
You can extend the lifespan of your driveway through regular maintenance. Driveway cleaning won’t just add to your home’s curb appeal; removing debris prevents moisture from seeping below the surface, helping to protect against cracks, potholes, and erosion. When cracks do appear — an inevitability of home ownership — they will eventually expand, creating a safety hazard that could potentially damage your vehicle. Driveway crack filling can slow their growth and buy you some time..
Applying a driveway sealcoat is another great way to slow down deterioration and make your pavement last longer. A driveway sealcoat will restore your asphalt’s finish, reduce friction, and prevent moisture, freezing temperatures, UV light from the sun, and harmful chemicals from wreaking havoc. Experts recommend a new driveway sealcoat every 2-3 years.
Homeowners can take on many of these projects themselves, but residential asphalt repair can be difficult and time-consuming, and if you don’t do the work correctly, your driveway might end up in worse condition than before.
