If you own a home, it’s important to understand the essence of keeping your property in good condition, including your driveway. Unfortunately, keeping your driveway in perfect condition isn’t one of the easiest tasks that you can perform. You must know when you need to sealcoat or resurface your driveway.
So, when is the right time to resurface or sealcoat your asphalt driveway? Before answering this question, it’s important to understand that these two methods are often misunderstood. One is just a routine maintenance practice, while the other is an asphalt repair process. Each method does something different for your asphalt driveway. Continue reading to know when to consider sealcoating or resurfacing your asphalt pavement.
What is sealcoating?
Driveway sealcoating is an important part of maintaining your asphalt driveway. Asphalt is a porous material, so it is susceptible to damage from water and chemicals. Over time, this damage can lead to cracks, potholes, and other problems. Sealcoating provides a barrier against these elements, helping to extend the lifespan of your driveway.
There are two main types of sealcoat: water-based and oil-based. Water-based sealers provide good protection against water damage but can be less durable than oil-based sealers. Oil-based sealers provide better protection against weathering and staining but can be more difficult to apply evenly. Ultimately, the best type of sealer for your driveway will depend on your specific needs and climate. Applying a water-based sealer every two to three years should be sufficient for most people.
What is Resurfacing?
Asphalt driveway resurfacing is a process whereby a new layer of asphalt is laid over the existing surface. This can help to fill in any cracks or potholes and give the driveway a fresh, smooth appearance. Resurfacing is generally cheaper than replacing an entire asphalt driveway and can extend its life by several years. Unlike sealcoating, which is suitable for DIY projects, driveway resurfacing should be carried out by a professional contractor who has experience in this type of work. With their help, you can ensure that your driveway looks great and lasts many years.
Why are these two processes necessary?
Asphalt is the most common paving material used on roadways, driveways, and parking lots. This paving material is a blend of aggregate (sand, rocks, and gravel) and a petroleum-based binding agent. Asphalt is the black binding agent, and it holds the aggregate together.
Naturally, asphalt is very flexible, which allows it to support the weight of human and vehicle traffic. However, the flexibility requires the asphalt to be installed on a strong surface for durability. If that’s not the case, your asphalt pavement can easily sink into the ground below when exposed to heavy weight.
The sun’s UV rays are some of the greatest enemies of asphalt paving, as they slowly break down asphalt pavements, and this is what makes asphalt pavements bumpy and gray with time. And, as your asphalt pavement deteriorates, it starts to crack. Cracked asphalt surfaces allow water to seep inside, and when the water freezes, it starts to expand, causing more damage to your driveway. If this is not addressed within the required time, your asphalt driveway will be full of potholes. This is where resurfacing, and sealcoating come in, as they are the perfect ways to deal with such deterioration.
When should you consider asphalt driveway sealcoating?
According to the Tampa experts from CSG Sealcoating, sealcoating should be done every two to three years or as needed. You may need to sealcoat sooner if your driveway is in a high-traffic area, is exposed to harsh weather conditions, or has already begun to show signs of wear and tear. When sealcoating your driveway, choose a reputable contractor who uses high-quality materials. This will help to ensure that your driveway looks its best and lasts for many years to come.
When should you consider asphalt driveway resurfacing?
Alligator Cracking
Alligator cracking is one of the most common signs that your asphalt driveway requires resurfacing. Also called fatigue cracking, alligator cracks are characterized by a network of interconnected cracks that resemble the scales on a reptile. These cracks typically form when the underlying subgrade is not compacted properly or when there is insufficient drainage beneath the asphalt.
If left untreated, alligator cracks will continue to grow and eventually lead to more serious structural damage. As such, having your driveway resurfaced as soon as you see signs of alligator cracking is important. Taking care of your driveway can help extend its lifespan and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Sunken Pavement
Asphalt driveways are a popular choice for many homeowners because they are durable and relatively easy to maintain. However, even the strongest asphalt driveway will eventually succumb to the elements. Over time, sunlight and heat can cause the pavement to become brittle, while rainfall and snowmelt can lead to sunken sections. When this happens, it’s time to consider asphalt driveway resurfacing. Resurfacing involves removing the top layer of asphalt and replacing it with fresh material. This process can help to fill in hollow sections, smooth out bumps, and restore the overall appearance of your driveway. In most cases, resurfacing is more cost-effective than completely replacing the pavement, so it’s worth considering if your driveway is starting to show its age.
To cover potholes
In general, resurfacing should be considered when the damage is extensive enough to create a trip hazard or when there are multiple large cracks or potholes. The process involves removing the top layer of asphalt and replacing it with new material. This can help to fill in low spots, cover minor surface irregularities, and correct major structural problems.
To solve drainage problems
One common problem with your asphalt driveway is poor drainage, which can lead to water pooling on the driveway’s surface or infiltration into the underlying subgrade. This can cause various problems, including premature deterioration of the asphalt and an increased risk of flooding. If your driveway is experiencing drainage problems, resurfacing it with asphalt may be the best solution.
Resurfacing will not only improve the appearance of the driveway, but it will also create a new layer of protection against moisture damage. In addition, proper drainage should be installed during the resurfacing process to ensure that water is directed away from the driveway and does not pool on its surface.
