Addressing Common Asphalt Driveway Maintenance Questions
Asphalt is a common material that is used for paving driveways. While it can be highly cost-effective and durable, there are many homeowners that are not knowledgeable when it comes to the maintenance needs for this part of a home. To this end, it is critical to understand the answers to a couple of routine maintenance questions that new homeowners often have about asphalt driveways.
What Is The Purpose Of Resurfacing Asphalt?
Eventually, it may be necessary for you to have your driveway resurfaced. During this procedure, the first couple of inches of asphalt will be removed. Once this is done, a new layer of asphalt will be added to the driveway. This type of repair is often used when a driveway has suffered extensive surface cracking, denting or discoloration. While this may seem like an extreme solution to these issues, it is a far more cost-effective option than simply replacing the entire driveway. Luckily, a well-maintained driveway will be able to last for many years before it will require this type of work done to it.
Are There Steps You Can Follow To Protect Your Asphalt Pavement?
Protecting the asphalt driveway against some of the more common forms of damage is essential for extending the life of this part of your property. However, you may not be entirely sure of what caring for an asphalt driveway will entail. To this end, you will want to make sure that you are regularly applying a seal coat to the driveway. These coatings will prevent moisture and vehicle fluids from absorbing into the asphalt, which may drastically reduce the risks of cracks or discoloration developing.
In addition to applying these sealants, you will also need to regularly wash the driveway to remove debris and vehicle fluids from the surface of the driveway. While a seal coat can reduce the risk of these substances damaging the asphalt, prolonged exposure to these substances may compromise its protection. Lastly, you will need to make sure that any cracks in the asphalt are repaired as soon as possible. These openings can allow moisture to seep into the interior of the driveway, which may cause substantial cracking to the asphalt.
Being knowledgeable about your home's asphalt driveway is important for getting the most from this expensive and noticeable part of the property. By appreciating the benefits of resurfacing the pavement as well as the steps that you can take to prolong the life of the asphalt, you will find yourself better prepared to be an informed homeowner.