An asphalt driveway can greatly enhance the functionality, aesthetics, and safety of your property, whether it's a residential or commercial space. Known for its durability and cost-effectiveness, asphalt offers a sleek, polished appearance while standing up to regular pedestrian and vehicle use. Its affordability compared to concrete makes it an appealing choice for many property owners wanting to get a driveway, kerbing, or vehicle crossing project done.
However, like any feature of your home or business, an asphalt driveway requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition and avoid expensive future repairs. Proper upkeep is key to ensuring it remains both attractive and safe, a task that a professional New Zealand paving contractor like Asphalt Services Ltd. can help with. Here are five practical tips to help you extend the lifespan of your asphalt driveway.
1. Clean Your Driveway Regularly
Over time, sediments, vegetation, and other debris can accumulate on your driveway. This build-up could eventually lead to damage on the asphalt surface if left unattended, not to mention that debris can diminish your property’s appearance.
Thus, make it a habit to regularly sweep and wash your driveway to maintain its appearance and extend the asphalt’s lifespan. You may use a broom, a stiff brush, or a leaf blower for common debris or opt for a pressure washer for deeply embedded dirt and grime. Meanwhile, vehicle fluids such as oil or gasoline leaks will require a degreaser to effectively get rid of. Regular cleaning also helps you spot potential damage to the asphalt surface, leading us to the next important maintenance tip.
2. Promptly Fix Cracks and Other Minor Damage
Small cracks can, at times, crop up on your asphalt driveway, usually caused by extreme temperatures, heavy vehicle traffic, or damage from hard objects such as metal shovels or lawnmower blades. While they may appear harmless initially, these cracks can make your asphalt pavement’s base vulnerable by allowing dirt, water, and other elements to seep in, which can further widen the damage.
The moment you spot an alligator crack or a pothole starting to form on your driveway, get it fixed right away by hiring a professional asphalt contractor. Property owners located in Dunedin or Otago can rely on asphalt paving experts from Asphalt Services Ltd. to get the job done right the first time. Not only will you be getting quality workmanship backed by twenty years of experience in the asphalt services industry, but we also offer competitive pricing and only use premium materials to ensure the longevity of your driveway. By taking quick action to fix those signs of asphalt fatigue, you’re saving yourself the headache of having to deal with worse damage in the future.
3. Reapply Sealcoat As Needed
To prolong the lifespan of your asphalt driveway, a sealcoat is typically applied on its surface to protect it from harsh elements such as rain, UV radiation, and industrial chemicals, all of which can hasten the pavement’s deterioration. In addition, sealcoating creates a smooth finish on the asphalt’s surface to further enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property and even make it easier to clean the paving. These benefits, coupled with the affordable price point of asphalt sealants, make sealcoating a cost-effective measure to maintain the longevity of your driveway.
Make sure to have sealcoating reapplied on your driveway every two to three years to maximise its effectiveness. While DIY sealcoating is possible, it’s best to hire a professional for the job to ensure the even and proper application of the sealant on your driveway.
4. Ensure Proper Water Drainage
Standing water or heavy water flow can weaken and ultimately damage your asphalt driveway, which is why it's crucial to maintain proper drainage around the area. If you find that your drainage system isn’t effectively keeping water off your driveway, consult a professional contractor. They can assess whether the issue can be resolved by installing additional drainage or simply by modifying your existing system.
Be aware that water damage can also result from poorly installed asphalt, which may allow water to seep beneath the surface, leading to cracks and potholes. Therefore, it's essential to choose a reputable contractor for your asphalt installation to prevent ongoing water damage issues with your driveway.
5. Get an Asphalt Overlay
Despite regular upkeep, it can be inevitable for the surface of your asphalt driveway to erode over time. However, if the damage isn’t too severe, consider opting for an asphalt overlay instead of a full replacement. This can extend the lifespan of your existing driveway without the need for a complete overhaul. Not only is asphalt overlay the more affordable option, it can also be completed much quicker, so your driveway won’t have to be out of commission for too long.
Keeping your asphalt driveway well-maintained not only greatly improves your property’s kerb appeal it also ensures that your driveway remains functional for a longer period of time. So, if you’re in need of asphalt installation services that guarantee excellent craftsmanship and longevity, then don’t hesitate to contact Asphalt Services Ltd. and ask for a free site assessment today. You may also call 03 477 2825 or 027 432 7631 to get started.
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