Asphalt is a long-lasting and reasonably priced paving solution for driveways and parking lots, but it must be maintained to look good and perform effectively. Maintaining your driveway is important since it will be the first impression your visitors have of you when they come to your property. If you take care of your asphalt pavement, it will last significantly longer.
In Spring Branch, Texas, we have both scorching summers and chilly winters, which can wreak havoc on asphalt paving. So, how long does an asphalt driveway last? The estimated lifespan of an asphalt driveway is 15 to 20 years. However, several factors will influence the length of time an asphalt driveway lasts and how to help it last longer:
High-Quality Materials and Standard Procedures
The quality of the asphalt mixture: Over time, a lower-quality mixture is more prone to fracture and fall apart. If you’re mixing a higher-quality solution, on the other hand, it will last far longer. Typically, asphalt driveways are less expensive than concrete ones. and last around 15 to 20 years.
The type of asphalt you’ll want to use: There are two types: hot mix and cold mix. The most durable of the two is hot mix asphalt, so it’s the finest option for a new driveway. Although it is less expensive, cold mix asphalt is less resilient.
The asphalt’s thickness: The longer roadways and parking lots can be maintained in good condition, the better. The thicker the asphalt, the longer it will endure. A driveway with a thickness of just two inches will not endure as long as one four inches thick. Make sure your new driveway is at least four inches thick if you’ve recently constructed one.
The subgrade: The subgrade is the layer of dirt beneath your driveway. Before your driveway is laid, make sure the subgrade is level. Cracks may form in your driveway if the subgrade isn’t level.
The drainage: When water does not drain easily and properly from your driveway, it may seep beneath the asphalt and cause soil erosion. To prevent potholes from forming, make sure your driveway has adequate drainage to avoid water damage.
Working With Asphalt Paving Experts
The installation: The durability of your driveway may also depend on how it is installed. For example, the sub-base might settle over time and cause the driveway to break if it is not properly compacted. Be certain that a certified paving contractor installs your driveway.
Appropriate maintenance: Sealcoating and repairing cracks regularly can help your driveway last longer. Seal your driveway once every few years, and repair any cracks or damage as soon as you detect them. To keep your driveway in good condition, it must have proper maintenance.
Traffic and Location of an Asphalt Driveway
The amount of traffic: The more cars that use your driveway, the sooner it will have to be fixed or replaced. If you have a lot of cars that use your driveway regularly, it is essential to have your driveway inspected and fixed more frequently. The more people drive over your driveway, the more wear and strain it will endure. Choosing a material that can endure a lot of usage and traffic is important.
The vehicle’s weight: The weight of the vehicle impacts the durability of an asphalt driveway. Heavy vehicles, such as buses and trucks, will leave a deeper hole in your driveway than smaller ones. If your driveway is constantly being used, it might need to be repaired more frequently.
The climate: Extreme weather conditions, such as snow, ice, and rain, may harm your driveway and reduce asphalt longevity. If your neighborhood often experiences very chilly winters, the freeze-thaw cycle might cause fractures in your concrete and asphalt driveways. Heat can also cause asphalt driveways to deteriorate if you reside in a location with hot summers. In arid or hotter regions, the asphalt may soften and be more prone to harm. In colder climates, the asphalt may crack due to extreme cold.
With these things in mind, you can expect your driveway to last long and keep its attractive appearance for many years.
Luke’s Asphalt Paving is a professional paving contractor in Spring Branch, Texas, offering excellent paving services to homeowners and businesses. They’re experts in a wide range of paving services and can assist you in maintaining your driveway in pristine condition. With the years of expertise they have, they can provide a great job on your pavement!
If you are considering having an asphalt driveway for your home or business in Spring Branch, Texas, contact Luke’s Asphalt Paving for a free estimate!