Answering Common Questions About Your Home's New Asphalt Driveway
A paved driveway is a common feature for modern homes. However, new homeowners often overlook the maintenance needs of this property feature. Sadly, repairing or replacing an asphalt driveway can be a complicated, disruptive, and expensive repair. By learning the answers to these questions about routine asphalt driveway problems, you will be better prepared to care for this major feature of your property.
Will The Color Of The Asphalt Fade?
Over the course of time that you own the driveway, the color in the asphalt will gradually start to break down. This results from exposure to the intense energy from the sun's ultraviolet light. Eventually, this exposure will cause the asphalt to develop a grey color. You can combat this problem by coating the asphalt with a sealant that will reflect or absorb these rays of light. Ideally, you should apply these sealants each year, as being exposed to the elements can weaken the protection offered by these substances. Contact a sealcoating service for more information.
What Causes Dents To Form In The Asphalt?
Another routine problem that asphalt may experience is the formation of dents in its surface. This can often occur from parking on the asphalt before it has fully cured. During this stage, it is possible for the asphalt to soften as a result of extreme heat. If you park on the pavement when it is softened, the weight of your vehicle can cause these dents to form. Avoiding this problem will mean waiting until the asphalt has fully cured before you park on it. While this may mean parking on the grass for several weeks, it can be a minor price to pay to prevent this unsightly problem from impacting your new driveway.
Why Should You Improve The Drainage Of The Soil Around The Pavement?
When it comes to caring for a driveway, it can be a routine mistake for homeowners to overlook the critical role that the drainage of the soil around the driveway will play. Poor drainage can allow rainwater to start to puddle around the sides of the pavement. This can lead to the water seeping into the small pores of the asphalt, which can exert powerful pressures on the interior of the asphalt. Eventually, this issue will cause the asphalt to develop some substantial cracks. You can help to avoid needing to pay for repairing these damages by installing gutters, French drains and placing gravel along the sides of the asphalt. While you may not want to pay for these property upgrades, they will usually be less than the cost of repairing or replacing a compromised driveway.