Asphalt is a paving option with a healthy lifespan, lasting 20 to 30 years, but you can make that lifespan last even longer. The asphalt experts at Tucker Paving have been in the asphalt and concrete paving industry for nearly 30 years, so we know all the tips and tricks to getting your asphalt driveway or other pavement to last as long as possible. Here’s how.
Tips to Extend the Life of Your Asphalt Pavement
- Keep it Clean. Make it a habit to regularly sweep debris off your asphalt driveway as debris can lead to damage. It’s also a good idea to regularly wash your asphalt pavement’s surface to remove stains and spilled liquids that could cause damage, like motor oil from your vehicle.
- Check it Regularly. The key to longevity when it comes to asphalt pavements like a driveway is to fix little problems so they don’t become big problems. It’s a good idea to periodically check your asphalt driveway for cracks, depressions, and other problems.
- Look Out for Water Damage. Water can wreak havoc with asphalt pavement if it’s allowed to penetrate into the pavement’s layers. Problem areas include spots where water pools, areas where water is present often—such as from a rain downspout or sprinkler system—or where water might be erode the base layers of your asphalt. Fix these areas as soon as possible to keep your asphalt in tiptop shape.
- Repair Damage Immediately. We’ve said this in a couple different spots, but it bears repeating. Fix problems like cracks, potholes, crumbling asphalt, and water issues as soon as possible so that they do not become large, expensive problems.
- Maintain with a Fresh Sealcoat. Sealcoating is when a liquid layer is applied to the top of your asphalt pavement. This keeps out water, debris, spilled liquids, and even UV rays. It also renews the asphalt’s appearance, giving it that dark black look it had when it was new. In Florida, asphalt should be sealcoated every three to five years due to the area’s strong sunshine and abundance of rain.
