Repaving Your Driveway
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.
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 about $4,567 on average, with the cost ranging from $2,857 to $6,315 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 project runs on $7 – $13 per square foot, including $2 – $6 per square foot of materials and $5-$7 per square foot for labor. However, if you need replacement services, you will pay $8 – $15 per square foot.
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 three years, it may be the right time to repave. With a maximum lifespan of fifteen years, repaving your driveway, especially commercial driveways, should be done within three years. 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.