While it would be nice for driveways to remain in perfect condition forever, this is never the case and all homeowners will have to deal with a repair or a replacement at some point. This is especially true if you have an asphalt driveway and most homeowners opt for this option because it is durable, long-lasting and more affordable when compared to other options.
All driveway materials will see a lot of wear and the material can start to break down after a few years. If you ever notice cracks or holes in certain areas of your driveway, it is time to fix the problem, although it’s not always easy to determine whether you should repair or replace it. There are a few factors that will help you make the right choice and the following information will help you determine which option is best:
The Age Of Your Driveway
This is one aspect you must consider because the answer will tell you a lot. If installed correctly, most driveways will generally last roughly about 20-years, so if yours happens to be approaching this age, it may be time to replace it. Dragging it out will lead to more problems and hazards, so it’s best to replace it with fresh driveway paving to solve the problem and eliminate any headaches.
The Condition Of Your Driveway
In addition to its age, you must consider its condition as this will help with your decision as well. If you see that your driveway is not in the best shape, it may be a better idea to replace it. Exposure to snow, ice, heat, salt and the pressure of vehicles over the years will impact your driveway and cause it to fail. This is something that happens naturally over the years and replacing your driveway will eliminate any existing and potential problems. Attempting to repair old asphalt can actually cause more problems and you will likely have to repair it fairly often, so replacing it would make a lot more sense.
Any Damages Present On Your Driveway
The extent of the damage will determine whether you need to replace or repair your driveway and minor issues like small cracks or divots can be repaired. These problems are easy to fix and will not compromise the integrity of your driveway, so repairing them is certainly an option you can consider. Larger cracks and holes; however, are far more problematic because they are indications of more serious issues with the base of your driveway. Repairing these areas will provide you with a temporary fix, so a replacement would be ideal as it would provide you with a long term solution.
Repair, Resurface or Replace: Your Three Options
It isn’t always a choice between a quick fix and a brand-new driveway. Most driveways fall into one of three categories:
- Repair when the damage is limited: hairline or narrow cracks (roughly under a quarter inch), a few small potholes or isolated low spots. Crack filling and patching followed by sealcoating can add years of life for a modest cost. Keep in mind that sealcoat protects the surface but doesn’t fill potholes or wide cracks, so those need repairing first.
- Resurface when the surface is worn, faded or covered in small cracks but the base underneath is still solid. A new layer of asphalt goes over the existing one, giving you a fresh driveway with less time and material than a full replacement. It won’t fix a failing base, though, and wide cracks will eventually show through the new layer.
- Replace when the base has failed: widespread alligator cracking, sinking areas, recurring potholes, water that pools after every rain, or a driveway approaching 20 years old. The old asphalt and damaged base are removed and rebuilt so the new surface has a solid foundation.
Not sure which applies to you? Our guide to what different pavement cracks mean can help, and you can learn more about our asphalt driveway repair and resurfacing and driveway replacement services.
If you’re not sure how to proceed, Bortolo and Sons can help. We specialize in asphalt and concrete paving, driveway pavers, and seal coating as well. If you are in the Burnaby area and want to work with a professional paving company, give us a call today!
Related reading: 7 reasons your pavement is cracking · The benefits of repaving your asphalt driveway · How often do you need asphalt paving services? Learn more about our driveway replacement service.
