How Long Does An Asphalt Driveway Last?
Bitumen, a petroleum-based substance, is used to bind aggregates like sand and gravel together to form the thick, gooey substance known as asphalt. The other components are joined together by bitumen to create a durable surface. These paving mixtures with a range of aggregate sizes and types are frequently used for asphalt driveways.
The Benefits of Using Asphalt to Build Residential Driveways
Asphalt is favored over other building materials for residential driveways because of its strength, adaptability, and affordability.
Extreme temperatures and weather are no match for the strength and durability of it. Its superior impact resistance makes it the perfect choice for regions with high traffic or cold climates that frequently experience freeze/thaw cycles. Compared to driveway materials like concrete, brick, or stone pavers, asphalt driveways are comparatively affordable. Additionally, asphalt roads have a long lifespan and require little upkeep. To further increase their longevity, they can be resealed every 2-3 years.
A method called asphalt sealing is used to shield surfaces from the sun, water, and oxidation. A longer lifespan and new-looking asphalt surface are also benefits of this treatment. To assist in filling in small cracks and holes, offer an additional layer of weather protection, and increase overall durability, sealing entails placing an additional layer of protection over a paved surface.
Expected Asphalt Lifespan and Contributing Factors to Durability
Depending on the environment and wear and strain from vehicle usage, an asphalt driveway will typically last 25 to 30 years. The life expectancy of the driveway may be fewer than ten years in colder climates, while it may last up to 30 years in warmer ones. The quality of the installation, the kind and volume of traffic on the driveway, routine maintenance, and weather conditions are just a few of the variables that might determine how long the driveway lasts.
The longevity of an asphalt surface is significantly influenced by the quality of installation. It can quickly deteriorate and disintegrate if it is not placed correctly because of weathering, water saturation, and other environmental variables. The lifespan of your driveway can be decreased by up to 50% as a result of poor construction techniques. Your driveway can last years without needing repairs or replacement if it is installed properly. Before installing the final layer of pavement, a skilled contractor can engineer a solid base layer beneath the asphalt top to provide optimal stability. By paying particular attention to detail during installation, you may have a long-lasting and resilient driveway.
In addition, the quantity and kind of traffic moving through can have a variety of effects on the pavement’s longevity. That’s because additional traffic puts a greater strain on the asphalt, which causes the surface to deteriorate with time. Regularly used driveways can last up to 30 years before needing to be completely replaced. With a projected lifespan of about 15-20 years, your driveway can degrade more quickly if it is exposed to heavier vehicles like cars or trucks.
The longevity of asphalt pavement can be increased by doing routine maintenance. Without upkeep, the material can easily deteriorate from exposure to the environment and become brittle. As a result, there will be cracking and water seepage, which will further damage the area by causing potholes, eroding edges, and poor drainage.
The longevity of asphalt pavement can also be greatly influenced by the weather. If roads are not adequately maintained, dramatic temperature changes, persistent rain, and snow can all harm them. Extreme heat or cold can make asphalt fragile and susceptible to cracking, whereas the opposite is true for extreme cold. Some of the protective coatings on top that assist in maintaining its integrity can be washed away by heavy rain. Additionally, snowfall can build up on top of driveways, adding additional weight that may need to be blown away with a snow blower or shoveled off by hand.
As previously noted, regular care is essential to maintaining the condition of your driveway for as long as feasible. Regular inspection and patching of any cracks or potholes are necessary. Sealing your driveway is also essential to prevent damage from UV rays, oil spills, and freeze-thaw cycles. To extend the longevity of your driveway, sealer should be placed every two to three years. Finally, keeping your driveway’s drainage system in good condition will assist in stopping water from collecting on the surface and harming the asphalt.
These recommendations will help you maintain your asphalt driveway so that it will survive for many years to come. Your driveway may endure up to 30 years or longer with appropriate installation, routine maintenance, and proper drainage.
Maintain your driveway
We must emphasize this. To get the most use possible out of your asphalt driveway, you must properly maintain it. Make it a routine to sweep the driveway and look for cracks and other issues. Call us right away if you notice a crack so we can fix it before it worsens.
Trees that are growing towards your driveway may need to have their branches pruned since their roots can damage the foundation by encroaching beneath it.
Finally, mist the asphalt with cool water to reduce heat-induced cracks on hot days. For all of your asphalt needs, contact Jireh Construction’s specialists.