What Causes Driveway Damage?
To keep your driveway in one piece as long as possible, it’s important to first understand what factors lead to unwanted cracks and crumbling. Many homeowners might notice their driveway seems to be in a sorry shape during or after the winter months. Temperature and moisture levels can severely affect the structural integrity of asphalt and concrete. During winter the constant freeze-thaw cycles, precipitation and snow melt cause driveways to repeatedly expand and contract. While this movement isn’t easily visible to the naked eye, small cracks and fissures form within the asphalt or concrete as the cycle repeats. The cracks eventually expand, becoming a much larger issue for homeowners.
Even in climates that don’t experience such cold winters, extreme heating followed by rapid cooling produces the same result. Residents living in desert areas can experience the same issues.
Driveway Repairs
Driveways endure regular wear and tear; eventually, they will start to show their age. However, even a large crack might not require a complete driveway replacement. Cracks that are no more than half an inch wide can be repaired with patching materials that double as a sealant. The patch prevents the crack from getting wider as well as ensuring water doesn’t leak underneath your driveway, causing further issues.
The repair can be done on your own if you choose to purchase the sealing material yourself. However, if larger cracks start to appear or you find yourself having to constantly make repairs it’s best to call a professional as soon as possible.
Replacing or Resurfacing Your Driveway
Cracks larger than an inch, or signs of crumbling, indicate a more serious problem. Simply patching the driveway won’t be enough to solve the issue at its source. In these situations, you’ll need an expert contractor to completely remove and replace your driveway.
If patching isn’t enough but you can’t afford a full driveway replacement, consider finding a solution in the middle ground. Contractors are capable of resurfacing an old driveway, replacing just the top layer of material. The process is cheaper than a full replacement, but is only effective at repairing the topmost layer. If water damage or large cracks have destroyed the foundation of the driveway you’ll still need a complete redo.
Even if your driveway looks like it’s in good condition, it might be time for a full replacement. If your asphalt driveway is older than 20 or your concrete is pushing 25 years of age it’s a more cost-effective option to invest in a brand new driveway. After years of wear and tear problems will eventually begin to arise faster than you can repair them.
Asphalt and Concrete Services in Austin
At Contractors Asphalt in Texas, we understand that your home is your biggest investment. Proper home maintenance preserves both its appearance and value. We offer extensive asphalt and concrete services to help keep your house in the best condition possible. From residential subdivisions to rural ranch roads, we’ve done it all. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a free detailed layout from one of our skilled project estimators.