Highway Masters Paving is a company that provides commercial and residential driveway services in Los Angeles, California. We specialize in asphalt paving and offer concrete and sealcoating services. We have been in business for over 25 years and have paved thousands of driveways during that time.
We often get asked how long does an asphalt driveway last, and the answer is that it depends on several factors.
How Long Does an Asphalt Driveway Last
An asphalt driveway’s average lifespan is anywhere from 15 to 30 years, depending on the installation’s quality and the maintenance performed on it. Some factors affecting asphalt longevity include the climate, the amount of traffic it receives, and whether or not it is properly sealed. If you take good care of your driveway, it will last longer and look better for many years.
Factors That Affect Asphalt Pavement Life Expectancy
Several factors will affect how long your asphalt pavement will last. The four important factors for asphalt longevity are installation, climate, traffic, and maintenance.
Installation
The quality of the installation is very important. If the subgrade is not properly compacted or the asphalt mix is incorrect, the pavement will not last as long.
Climate
Hotter climates with little rainfall will cause the pavement to degrade faster than cooler climates with more rainfall. The heat will cause the asphalt to soften, and the rain will wash away the binders that hold the pavement together.
Traffic and Vehicle Weight
The amount of traffic and the weight of the vehicles using the pavement will also affect their lifespan. Heavy trucks will cause more wear and tear than light cars, and constant traffic will shorten the life of the pavement.
Maintenance
If you do not seal your driveway or repair cracks and holes, it will degrade faster than if you do. Properly maintained asphalt pavement can last for many years. It is important to have your driveway sealed every few years and to repair any cracks or holes as soon as they appear.
The Importance of Pavement Maintenance
Proper maintenance is important for two reasons: to extend your pavement’s life and keep it looking its best. All types of pavement, including asphalt, concrete, and brick pavers, require proper maintenance. The amount of maintenance required will depend on the type of pavement and the amount of traffic that it receives.
Asphalt is a durable driveway material that can last many years but is not invincible. Like all pavement, asphalt will deteriorate over time and eventually need to be replaced. The key to prolonging the asphalt lifespan is to perform routine maintenance.
Seal your driveway
Sealing your asphalt driveway is the best way to protect it from the elements and prevent it from deteriorating prematurely. Sealcoating protects the bare pavement by creating a protective layer from the sun’s UV rays and water damage, which can cause the asphalt to deteriorate prematurely.
Fix cracks and holes
As soon as you notice any cracks or holes in your driveway, it is important to repair them. Left unaddressed, small cracks will turn into large ones and eventually lead to potholes. Potholes not only damage your driveway, but they can also cause damage to your car.
Remove snow and ice.
In the winter, it is important to promptly remove snow and ice from your driveway. Plowing or shoveling can damage the pavement, so using a snow blower or de-icer is best. It is also important to avoid using salt, as it can damage the asphalt.
Clean your driveway
Just like any other surface, your driveway needs to be cleaned regularly. Remove debris, such as leaves or sticks, and sweep away dirt and dust. You can also use a garden hose to remove tough stains. For oil stains, you will need to use a degreaser.
Call a Professional
When it comes to asphalt driveway maintenance, it is always best to call a professional. Asphalt paving companies like Highway Masters Paving have the experience and equipment to maintain your asphalt pavement properly. We can seal your driveway, repair cracks and holes, and remove snow and ice without damaging the pavement.
Regular maintenance is the key to prolonging the asphalt driveway’s lifespan. Following these tips can keep your asphalt pavement looking its best for many years. If you have any questions about asphalt paving maintenance or would like to schedule a service, contact Highway Masters Paving today.
Working With a Reliable Paving Contractor
May it be a new asphalt driveway or repairing an old one, proper installation is the key to a long-lasting asphalt driveway. It is important to work with a reliable contractor such as Highway Masters Paving who has the experience and the equipment to properly maintain your pavement. We can seal your driveway, repair cracks and holes, and remove snow and ice without damaging the pavement.
If you need a paving contractor, contact Highway Masters Paving today. We would be more than happy to answer any questions about asphalt driveway maintenance or provide you with a free estimate.