How to Ace Your Asphalt Driveway Installation and Maintenance?
Although asphalt is priced for its affordability and durability, it’s not invincible. It requires more maintenance compared to other structural materials. Before you install your asphalt driveway, find out what are the factors that can affect its installation and lifespan below.
How the Rain Will Affect Your Asphalt Installation?
Making an asphalt driveway in a wet season isn’t strategic. In case rain occurs, the paving should be delayed. Only resumes once the ground dries. Asphalt is a mixture that contains oils. Water repels oil, and this can affect the quality of the structure. The rain can cause holes and cracks on the driveway. These problems can be seen immediately, and would eventually lead to potholes.
It’s important to take note that it takes for new asphalt 48 to 72 hours to dry enough for vehicles and foot to access. Resurfaced asphalt, on the other hand, though, will dry in just a few hours.
How to Increase the Life of Your Asphalt Driveway?
The heavy traffic, rain, and harsh temperature may affect the lifespan of your asphalt driveway. To avoid reconstruction, you could hire a professional who can inspect your asphalt driveway once every six months. If the driveway is prone to flooding, you may address the issue by rerouting water with a side gutter. You need to find the best drainage that corresponds to the temperature in your area. It’s important to use the best de-icing product to keep it from getting damaged.
You can stop water from penetrating deep into the driveway with a seal coat. This should be done once every three years or more, depending on the traffic and exposure of your asphalt driveway from bad elements. The cost of the seal coat may vary on your region or contractor so make sure to inquire to a bunch of prospects.