Repaving Your Driveway

Quick answer: Repave a driveway when the damage is widespread or comes from underneath: alligator cracking, sinking, water that will not drain, or a surface 12 to 15 years old where patches no longer hold. Isolated cracks and potholes on an otherwise sound driveway can be repaired instead.

A repaving driveway can be expensive, whether it is concrete or asphalt. As a result, most homeowners choose to deal with the crumbling material or growing cracks by patching up the spots instead of replacing their driveway completely. Patching up some areas can be cost-effective, but in the long run, you will end up incurring additional costs. Your driveway is an essential component of your business’s/home’s curb appeal. Driveways sustain damage:

  • When heavily and frequently used by multiple vehicles.
  • Freezing temperatures cause driveway damage. During the winter season, melting ice freeze and thaw causing the slap to expand and eventually crack.
  • When exposed to adverse weather conditions. Intense, direct sunlight and heavy rains can cause buckling, crackling, and slab shifts.

Firstly, understand that wear and tear are expected, especially under the conditions described above. Secondly, it is crucial to realize that there are numerous options to repair your driveway. While you can do it yourself, hiring a professional company is the best option because most professionals are experienced, skilled, and well equipped.

repaving your driveway

While some people opt to replace the entire driveway i.e., excavation of the existing driveway and applying fresh asphalt or concrete, others prefer hiring professionals to refill existing cracks.

What is the cost of repaving your driveway?

If you are considering repaving your driveway, determining the cost is crucial before the process starts. Ergo, what is the average cost of repaving your driveway?

Typically, repaving an asphalt driveway costs a different amount from one property to the next, depending on several factors. Remember, some of these factors include the professional company you hire, your location, season/time of the year, and the size of your driveway. The quote is built per square foot, and the labor is a larger share of it than the materials. However, full replacement costs more than repaving, because the old surface and the base have to come out first.

repaving driveway

When to Repave Your Driveway

Certain factors can help you decide the right time to repave your driveway. Some of these factors include:

1. If you are continually patching up your driveway

If your driveway has potholes and cracks, doing minor repairs is recommended. Patching your driveway is cost-effective, but with the time you may end up spending more than repaving. Besides, patching your driveway is an ideal solution for the first few years of a new driveway. Remember, with the lifespan of asphalt driveways ranging from 12 to 15 years, repaving your driveway is the best option.

2. If your driveway is aging

When did you install your asphalt driveway? If your driveway is more than 12 to 15 years old and repairs no longer hold, it may be the right time to repave. With a typical lifespan of 12 to 15 years, a driveway, especially a commercial one, should be assessed for repaving as it reaches that age. Repaving your driveway restores the structural integrity and maintain the curb appeal.

3. If your customers are noticing

If you are a business owner, physical looks matter a lot. Customers notice physical surroundings and the condition of your driveway. Therefore, if your driveway is cracked or pothole-filled, you will get complaints. If your customers notice your damaged driveway, consider taking action. Repaving your driveway can address long term cracks or potholes with ease and without breaking the bank.

Finally, doing thorough research and getting professional advice is essential to make the right choices. Also, comparing prices can help you save the total repaving cost. Remember, choosing a cheaper professional does not mean more affordable services, and vice versa. Therefore, consider other factors like the level of experience, availability of labor, and equipment used rather than focusing on the cost alone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I repave my driveway instead of repairing it?

Repave when the damage is widespread or comes from the base: alligator cracking, sinking, water that will not drain, or a surface 12 to 15 years old where patches no longer hold. Isolated cracks and potholes can be repaired.

What does repaving a driveway involve?

The old surface is either removed or, if it is still sound, overlaid. Failed areas of the base are rebuilt and compacted, then new hot asphalt is laid and rolled.

Can you repave over an existing asphalt driveway?

Yes, when the old driveway is structurally sound. Damaged spots are repaired first and a new layer is paved over the top. A driveway that is sinking or cracked all over needs to be removed and rebuilt.

How long before I can drive on a repaved driveway?

Keep cars off for at least 24 to 48 hours, and longer in hot weather. Heavy vehicles should stay off for several days.

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