Asphalt is a durable and reasonably priced paving driveway material for parking lots and pavements, but it needs maintenance to look good and work efficiently. Maintaining your driveway is essential because it will be the first thing visitors notice at your home. If you maintain your asphalt pavement properly, it will last longer.
The Key Factors That Determine Asphalt Longevity
In Houston, Texas, we experience extreme weather, which may be hard on asphalt paving. An asphalt driveway’s average lifespan is from 15 to 20 years. However, some elements are very influential on how long does an asphalt driveway last, and here’s how you can help extend asphalt longevity:
The Asphalt Mix Quality
Asphalt driveways are typically more economical than concrete driveways, lasting around 15 to 20 years. A lower-quality asphalt mix is more susceptible to cracking and crumbling over time. A higher-quality mix, on the other hand, will last much longer.
The Different Types of Asphalt
Hot mix and cold mix are the two different types of asphalt mix. The best option for a new driveway is hot mix asphalt because it is the more durable of the two. Although cold-mix asphalt is less expensive, it is less stable.
The Climate and Weather Conditions
Your driveway’s lifespan might be shortened and damaged by extreme weather. The freeze-thaw cycle can lead to fractures in concrete and asphalt driveways if you live in a location with frigid temperatures. Similarly, excessive heat can damage asphalt driveways if you reside in an area with hot summers. Hotter climates can cause the asphalt to soften and become more susceptible to damage. Colder climates can cause the asphalt to crack.
Asphalt Driveways Amount of Traffic
The more traffic your driveway gets, the sooner it will need to be repaired or replaced. If you have a lot of cars that regularly drive on your driveway, it’s important to have them inspected and repaired more often. The more traffic your driveway gets, the more wear and tear it will experience. Choosing driveway materials that can withstand a lot of traffic is important.
The Thickness of the Asphalt Driveways
The thicker the asphalt, the longer it will last. A driveway only two inches thick will not last as long as one four inches thick. If you have a new driveway, make sure it is at least four inches thick.
The Subgrade of Asphalt Paving
The subgrade is the ground beneath your driveway. Ensure the subgrade is level before your driveway is put in. If the subgrade is not level, it can cause cracks in your driveway.
Asphalt Pavement with Proper Drainage
If water does not drain easily from your driveway, it can seep under the asphalt and cause it to deteriorate. Make sure that your driveway has good drainage to prevent cracks from developing into potholes.
The Proper Installation of New Asphalt Driveway
How your driveway is installed can also affect its longevity. For example, if the subbase is not properly compacted, it can settle over time and cause the driveway to crack. You should make sure that a qualified paving contractor installs your driveway.
The Traffic and Weight of Vehicles
The vehicle’s weight impacts the durability of an asphalt driveway. Heavy vehicles, like trucks and buses, will cause more damage to your driveway than lighter vehicles. If you have a lot of heavy traffic, you may need to replace your driveway more often.
Proper and Regular Maintenance
Proper maintenance is necessary for extending the asphalt lifespan of your driveway. Regular maintenance, like sealcoating asphalt surface and repairing cracks, will help extend your driveway’s lifespan. Be sure to seal your driveway every few years and repair any cracks or damage as soon as you notice them.
Considering these many factors, you can expect your driveway to last and continue to look great for many years.
Working with the Experts at A1 Construction Services
A1 Construction Services is a paving company that specializes in asphalt driveways. With over 30 years of experience in paving and have installed thousands of asphalt residential driveways and business parking lots in Houston, Texas. We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible experience and stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee. We use only the highest quality materials, and our workmanship is second to none.
If you are interested in installing an asphalt driveway for your home or business in Houston, Texas, contact A1 Construction Services for a free estimate!