Five Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Asphalt Driveway

When installed properly, an asphalt driveway can last for up to 15 years before it needs to be replaced. However, that’s not always the case, and your driveway may need to be replaced much sooner than the 15-year mark.

The good news is that knowing when to replace your driveway isn’t a guessing game. Continue reading to learn a few of the top signs that it’s time for asphalt paving in Damascus, MD.

Standing water

A properly installed driveway should be sloped to allow water to flow off the surface and onto the grass or down the gutter. But after a while, pits can develop in your driveway, allowing water to collect on the asphalt. This standing water will cause significant damage, especially if it freezes in the winter months. If you notice puddles after it rains, it’s time to replace your driveway.

Raveling

Asphalt is made up of binder and aggregate. Throughout the years, the aggregate can come loose from the binder. When this happens, you’ll see loose pieces of gravel on the driveway, or you may notice pits forming on the surface. This raveling problem will start out small, but it’ll get worse the longer you ignore it. Hire a contractor to replace your driveway as soon as you notice the first signs of raveling.

Alligator cracks

Small cracks in an asphalt driveway are known as alligator cracks because they look like the back of an alligator. These flaws may be hard to notice at first glance, but they’re a sign that your driveway’s subbase is no longer supporting the surface layer. The only way to address this issue is to hire a team to perform new asphalt paving in Damascus, MD.

Multiple larger cracks

While some alligator cracking may be hard to ignore, large cracks throughout your asphalt aren’t. If your asphalt is riddled with large cracks running across the surface or along the length of the driveway, it may be time to replace it entirely. Your asphalt contractor may be able to fill these cracks as a temporary fix, but we advise replacement.

Old age

While your asphalt driveway can certainly last for 15 years, it’ll most likely be faded and cracked once it reaches that milestone. If your driveway is between 10 and 15 years old, it’s not a bad idea to go ahead and replace it. A new driveway will look better and increase your property value!

Repair or replace?

Before you jump to the conclusion that your driveway needs to be replaced, you may want to consider simple asphalt repair in Damascus, MD. Although making minor repairs won’t give your driveway a fresh, new look, it is significantly less expensive and much faster than completely replacing the surface. Your asphalt contractor can help make the decision for you if you’re wavering between repairs or replacement.

Contact Maryland Asphalt LLC today

Whether you need a completely new driveway or minor asphalt repair in Damascus, MD, talk to our pros at Maryland Asphalt LLC. We offer a wide range of residential paving services that are affordable on any budget. Contact our team today to get a consultation for your next project.

Categorised in: Asphalt Driveway