Asphalt driveways can start to crumble for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is when it starts to age. Asphalt driveways usually last around 10-15 years, so if your driveway is starting to show signs of age, then it might be time for a repair.
So how to fix crumbling asphalt driveway? Read more as we’ll talk about this topic in today’s article.
What Causes The Asphalt Driveway To Crumble
Asphalt driveways are a popular choice for homeowners because they are affordable and durable. However, even the best driveways will eventually develop cracks. The key to keeping your driveway in good condition is to fix cracks as soon as they appear.
Cracks in asphalt driveways can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather conditions, vehicle traffic, and duration. They can also be caused by problems with the underlying pavement like when the asphalt is laid over a layer of concrete which has not been properly prepared. The concrete can crack, and this can cause the asphalt to crumble.
Another common problem is when the subbase is not properly compacted. This can lead to settlement and cracking of the asphalt. Uneven settling can also cause cracks and potholes in the driveway.
And if there are any large tree roots near the driveway, they can cause damage to the surface as they grow. The roots can break through the asphalt and weaken it, leading to crumbling and other damage.
Aside from that, here are the other reasons why asphalt driveways develop cracks:
- Overloading – If too much weight is placed on the driveway, it can cause the asphalt to crack or crumble.
- Poor installation – If the driveway wasn’t installed properly, it can create fractures that will lead to cracking.
- Freezing And Thawing – Repeated freezing and thawing can cause the asphalt to expand and contract, leading to cracks.
- Age – Asphalt driveways tend to deteriorate over time, which can lead to cracks.
Fixing A Crumbling Asphalt Driveway
Here are the common repair methods of fixing a crumbling asphalt driveway:
- Patching – You can fill the cracks with a patching compound. This is a temporary fix, but it can help to prevent the problem from getting worse.
- Sealing – Sealing the driveway can help to prevent further damage from occurring.
- Resurfacing – Resurfacing the driveway can help to cover up the cracks and improve the overall appearance.
- Replacing – In some cases, the only solution is to completely replace the driveway. This is a more expensive option, but it will provide you with a new, smooth surface.
If you notice a crack in your driveway, the first step is to determine its cause. If the crack is caused by weather or traffic, it can usually be repaired with a sealant or patching compound. If the crack is caused by a problem with the underlying pavement, you may need to have the driveway replaced.
Once you have determined the cause of the crack, you can begin repairing it. If the crack is less than 1/2 inch wide, you can usually repair it yourself using a sealant or patching compound. But if the crack is wider than 1/2 inch, you will need to call a professional contractor to repair it.
To repair a crack with a sealant or patching compound, you will first need to clean the area around the crack with a degreaser or solvent. Then, you will need to apply the sealant or patching compound to the crack and let it dry. Once it is dry, you will need to apply a second coat of sealant or patching compound.
On the other hand, if the crack is wider than 1/2 inch, you will need to call a professional contractor like A-Rock Asphalt located in Salt Lake City, Utah to repair it. The contractor will first remove any loose asphalt from the area around the crack. Then, they will fill the crack with a new layer of asphalt. Finally, they will seal the area around the repair to prevent further damage.
What Can You Do To Prevent Your Asphalt Driveway From Crumbling In The Future
Here are a few things you can do to help prevent your driveway from crumbling and keep it looking its best for years to come.
One of the most important things you can do is to keep the surface of the driveway clear of debris. Leaves, twigs, and other bits of trash can quickly wear down the asphalt if left lying on the surface. Be sure to sweep or hose off the driveway regularly to keep it looking good.
You should also seal the driveway every few years. A good sealant will help protect the asphalt from weathering and fading. It will also help reduce the likelihood of potholes and cracks forming on the surface.
If you do notice any potholes or cracks in your driveway, be sure to repair them as soon as possible. Left unrepaired, these defects can lead to further damage and even crumble the entire surface of the driveway.
