Asphalt is a versatile, durable paving material, but like all others, it will eventually show signs of wear. When this occurs, homeowners often wonder whether they should fix the damaged areas or replace the whole driveway. To aid in that decision, review these signs of the need for driveway replacement.
Accumulated Water
If water puddles on the driveway, there’s a drainage issue. Preferably, the driveway should be sloped in such a way that water drains away. Over the years, however, depressions and indentations may form, allowing water to gather and work its way into the top asphalt layer. Poor drainage is a sign of structural degradation, and the only solution for that is a complete replacement.
Cracking
When a driveway develops overlapping cracks, the pavement is divided into an array of broken sections. Known as alligator cracking, it often indicates that the base under the pavement is no longer supporting it. When the base fails, the surface layer is damaged, and it typically indicates that it is time for an Asphalt Paving Contractor to strip away the old driveway and replace it with a new base and asphalt coat.
Failures
There are two kinds of cracks affecting asphalt driveways. Longitudinal cracks are vertical, and transverse cracks are horizontal. While the odd transverse or longitudinal crack doesn’t mean the entire driveway must be replaced, multiple failures are best handled with a full replacement.
Age
With care and maintenance, asphalt driveways will last for years. However, all will need replacement at some point. At approximately the 10-15 year mark, a homeowner may notice that they’re having more problems with cracking, fading, and crumbling. Instead of addressing problems as they come, it may be wise to consider hiring an Asphalt Paving Contractor for replacement.
While some asphalt problems can be resolved with repairs, in other cases, replacement is the only real choice. By now, customers should have a better idea of whether repair or replacement is the better option. A local asphalt contractor will evaluate the situation and offer expert advice. To learn whether the current driveway can be maintained, or if it should be stripped away and replaced, call Morlock Asphalt Ltd today. You can pay a visit to Facebook page for more information.
