Know when it’s time to replace your driveway.
Your driveway is an integral part of your property. It is one of the first things people coming into your house will see. A properly maintained driveway elevates the overall look of your property. Conversely, a damaged and crumbling driveway can destroy the appeal of an otherwise beautiful house and property.
A high-quality and well-built driveway can last for decades. However, constant traffic, pressure from vehicles, and exposure to extreme weather will eventually damage even the most well-maintained driveway. Sometimes, a repair will not be enough, and a replacement is necessary.
With that in mind we have developed a list of signs to look out for when checking over your driveway.
Signs that You Need a Driveway Replacement
If you are unsure whether your driveway needs a simple repair or replacement, here are some replacement signs to look out for.
There are cracks in your driveway.
Cracks can form in both asphalt and concrete driveways. Small cracks can be repaired, but long, deep, and wide cracks will necessitate a driveway replacement. You can attempt to repair big cracks, but the results will not last long. You can also choose to fix the cracks, but the patched areas will have a darker colour than the rest of the driveway.
Alligator cracks are another sign that you may need to replace your driveway. This type of crack overlaps and resembles the skin of a reptile, hence the name.
Cracks can become more severe due to moisture, oil, gas, and other substances that can seep in and affect the integrity of your driveway. It is important to note that substances can still seep in after a patch job.
You see standing water in your driveway.
Drainage issues with driveways should not be ignored. A driveway in good condition should have no pooling water or water running down in the middle. An uneven driveway can usually result in water collecting in certain areas of the driveway. It can eventually weaken the driveway and may result in more cracks and potholes.
The presence of standing water is not only a sign of structural issues, but they can also lead to more serious damage.
Potholes start appearing.
Potholes are not only an eyesore, but they can also pose problems for your car. Potholes can bring stress to your car’s tyres and suspension. They are formed when the earth beneath the driveway expands and contracts, weakening the driveway’s materials and results in the materials crumbling. These holes are dangerous not just to your vehicles but also to the homeowners, especially children and seniors.
Older driveways with potholes will benefit from a driveway replacement. New materials used to build driveways are more capable of withstanding these problems than driveway materials used in previous decades.
Your driveway has a weathered appearance.
Constant exposure to sunlight can cause the colour of your driveway to fade over time. This discolouration is due to the sun’s rays penetrating the surface and oxidising it.
While fading is normal and may seem a cosmetic issue, sun exposure can weaken the integrity of your driveway. You can make it look new by applying asphalt sealant, but your driveway will not be as durable.
Your driveway is ravelling right before your eyes.
Asphalt is a mix of aggregate and binder. As years go by, the aggregate separates from the binder. During this time, you will see pieces of gravel on your driveway. Once larger pieces break away, the surface becomes rougher and will wear out your tyres quickly.
You were not religiously maintaining your driveway.
While they are built to last for decades, driveways still need to be properly maintained to last long, we recommend resealing every two to three years. Resealing helps protect your driveway from cracking, breaking, and other surface issues.
Be honest with yourself. If you haven’t been maintaining your driveway as you should and you start to see some alligator cracks, then a replacement may well be on its way.
Your driveway is old.
No, not you. Your driveway can get old, and when it is past its prime, it will not be as durable and reliable as it was when it was new.
Asphalt driveways last from 15 to 20 years, assuming regular resealing is done. When one is older than 15 years, it is time to prepare for its replacement to avoid more serious problems.
Why You Should Replace a Damaged Driveway
You may be tempted to put off replacing your driveway due to various reasons. However, replacing it as soon as possible can help save you from graver and costly problems.
Here are the benefits of replacing your asphalt driveway once it shows symptoms of significant damage.
It is for your safety.
Running children and even unaware adults can easily trip and fall over a pothole or a big crack on your driveway. Standing and running water can also cause them to slip. Unaddressed issues can result in accidents that may be more costly in the end.
It is better for your car.
You know how you avoid bumpy roads when driving your car so as not to overwork its suspension? The same should be done in your driveway. Potholes and chips can stress your car’s tyres and suspension, wearing them out in the process. Large pieces of gravel can also wear out your tyres when your driveway starts ravelling.
It elevates the curb appeal of the property.
Since your driveway is one of the first things visitors see, its state can affect the appearance of your property. A presentable and functional driveway that looks good can make your home look more beautiful and well-kept.
Contact Northern Highways Bitumen for Your Driveway Needs in NSW.
At Northern Highways Bitumen, we provide fast and reliable services for your different driveway needs. We offer asphalt and bitumen road sealing and surfacing services for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Contact us now for high-quality bitumen and asphalt surfacing solutions. Call us on 1300 858 751 or send your enquiries to sales@northernhighwaysbitumen.com.au.
