Ever pull into your driveway and wince at the sight of new cracks? Or maybe you trip over a growing pothole every time you get the mail? It’s a pain, right? Asphalt driveways are a great choice for many. They are easy on the wallet and last long if cared for well. Still, like anything, asphalt can have problems. Knowing what these issues are and how to fix them can help your driveway live a long life and save you money.
Understanding Asphalt Driveway Deterioration
Asphalt is a mix of stone, sand, and a binder that holds it all together. Think of it like a cake recipe. When the weather changes, it can really mess things up. Sun, rain, and freezing temps all play a role in how fast your driveway falls apart.The Role of Weather and Temperature Fluctuations
Weather can be tough on your driveway. Hot sun can soften the asphalt. Cold weather can cause cracks. The freeze-thaw cycle is a big problem. Water gets into small cracks, freezes, expands, and makes the cracks bigger. What can you do? Seal your driveway! Sealing helps protect it from the sun and water. Do it every few years to keep your driveway in great shape.Impact of Water Infiltration and Drainage Issues
Water is not your driveway’s friend. If water seeps into cracks, it can cause big problems. When water freezes, it expands and makes cracks worse. Good drainage is important to keep water away from your asphalt. Look at your driveway after it rains. Does water pool anywhere? If so, that’s a problem. Make sure your driveway slopes away from your house so water runs off.Common Asphalt Driveway Problems and Their Solutions
Let’s look at some common issues that affect asphalt driveways. We will cover causes and what you can do. Some fixes are easy to manage, but others need a pro. Cracks: From Hairline Fractures to Major Breaks Cracks come in all sizes. Hairline cracks are small and thin. Alligator cracks look like alligator skin and are a sign of bigger problems. Block cracks are big squares. The bigger the crack, the faster you need to fix it. What can you do? For small cracks, use a crack filler from the hardware store. For bigger cracks, you may need to patch the area. If your driveway is full of cracks, you may need to resurface the whole thing. That’s when you want to call a pro. Potholes: Causes, Impacts, and Repair Options Potholes are a pain. They can mess up your car. Plus, someone could trip. Potholes form when water gets under the asphalt and weakens the base. Cars driving over the weak spot make it worse. What can you do? You can use a cold patch mix from the store for a quick fix. Clean out the pothole, pour in the mix, and tamp it down. But, for a lasting repair, call a pro. They can use hot asphalt and fix the base under the pothole. Sinking or Uneven Surfaces: Addressing Foundation Issues Is your driveway sinking in spots? That could be because of poor base prep. Soil erosion can also cause sinking. If the ground under your driveway shifts, the asphalt can sink. What can you do? Call a pro. They can level the asphalt. They might need to fix the base under the driveway. In some cases, you may need a new driveway.DIY Asphalt Repair vs. Professional Services
Fixing your driveway yourself can save money. But, knowing when to call a pro is crucial. Using the right tools and steps will make the job better.When to Tackle Repairs Yourself
Small jobs are great for DIY. Filling small cracks is easy. Patching a small area can also be done yourself. You’ll need a crack filler, trowel, and tamper. Here is how to fill a small crack:- Clean the crack. Get rid of any loose stuff.
- Pour in the crack filler.
- Smooth it out with a trowel.
- Let it dry.