Most homeowners seek to reduce maintenance costs on their residential driveways by applying a new asphalt layer on their existing surface. After all, a fresh layer of asphalt can improve your property’s curb appeal. And if your driveway only has minor cracks and the roadbed below is still in good shape, another coat of asphalt won’t harm it. However, performing an asphalt overlay is not the most cost-effective option because it will make the driveway look better for a year or two. Here’s why an asphalt overlay isn’t always ideal.

Only Repairs Surface Problems

Typically, a layer of asphalt is 1.5 inches thick. But, a new asphalt layer won’t benefit you if the surface beneath is problematic. If your asphalt driveway has dings, cracks, or other signs of asphalt damage, they will eventually reappear. Known as reflective cracking, the top layer of the surface reflects what’s going on down beneath. So, this indicates your new asphalt overlay will someday crack too. It may take years or happen the first winter after the overlay is applied. Either way, you’ll eventually be back where you originally began: a less-than-perfect driveway.

Signs of Asphalt Damage

Regular maintenance will keep your asphalt driveway last longer. If not properly maintained, the surface can visibly deteriorate in 3-5 years. Additionally, multiple factors can contribute to damaging your asphalt. Let’s take a closer look at the primary types of asphalt damage:

• Cracking
• Potholes
• Depressions – Have a slightly lower elevation than the surrounding pavement
• Ruts – Indentations in asphalt pavements along the wheel path of vehicles
• Raveling – Includes crushed stone, sand, and gravel

Better Solutions for Driveway Repair

Your driveway’s subsurface can change or shift over time, and the wear and tear might go beyond what you see on the surface. If your driveway’s cracks are more than a quarter-inch wide, call Tri-State Paving. An asphalt paving company based in Maryland can provide you with a driveway replacement to last for decades. Plus, surface preparation is critical for a long-lasting driveway. A properly graded and compacted subsurface makes all the difference in the stability of asphalt paving.

Receive Asphalt Paving Services with Tri-State Paving

Call Tri-State Paving. We’re a seasoned hardscaping company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge to help you turn your backyard into the perfect retreat quickly and affordably. Our experts will work with you to find a design and layout for the outdoor kitchen and dining area that you’re sure to love for years and years to come.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

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Tags: asphalt installation, asphalt overlay, asphalt paving in Maryland

This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 29th, 2023 at 3:14 pm and is filed under Asphalt Paving. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.