Driveways are a common part of residential homes. They provide a way to get vehicles in and out of the property and they also can add value to the home. There are many different materials that can be used for driveways, but asphalt is often chosen because it is affordable, durable, and easy to maintain.
So what should a new asphalt driveway look like? Read more as we’ll talk about this topic in today’s post.
What Is The Ideal Appearance Of A Newly-Installed Asphalt On Your Driveway
A driveway made of asphalt should be a consistent dark black color. It should be smooth to the touch and have a consistent finish. Any cracks or bumps in the surface should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid damage to vehicles or people’s feet. The edges should also be neat and uniform, with no loose pieces of asphalt.
The black color of an asphalt on your driveway is not just for looks – it has a very practical purpose, too. Black asphalt absorbs heat from the sun, which helps to keep the driveway and the surrounding pavement warm. This is especially important in cold climates, where melting snow and ice can create dangerous slip-and-fall hazards.
As long as it is properly installed, new asphalt should look smooth and consistent. The edges should be even and the surface should have no cracks or gaps. The texture of the asphalt should be uniform throughout the driveway. Any large pieces of rock should also be removed to ensure that there are no raised bumps that can damage tires or cause people to trip.
In addition, a new driveway made of asphalt should also have a slight crown, meaning that it should be slightly higher in the middle than at the edges. This is done to ensure that water drains away from the center of the driveway and doesn’t accumulate around its edges. If your driveway has been improperly installed, you may notice pools of water at its edges after a heavy rainstorm.
What A Worn-Out Asphalt Looks Like
On the other hand, a driveway made of asphalt that is in need of repair will often have a number of noticeable problems, which will likely happen after several years. One of the most common is that the surface will be visibly cracked, which can cause tripping hazards and make the driveway more difficult to use. The surface may also be noticeably pitted or rough, which can lead to decreased traction and an increased chance of slipping. In extreme cases, the asphalt may even start to crumble away, leaving large patches of bare ground exposed.
How To Keep The Appearance Of Your Driveway
A newly-installed asphalt should be properly sealed to protect it from the elements and extend its lifespan. Sealing your driveway will help to keep water out and prevent damage caused by UV rays, oil spills, and other materials that can cause discoloration and deterioration of the asphalt over time. Make sure to seal your driveway every few years to keep it looking great and ensure that it lasts for many years.
Apart from that, you also need to clean oil or chemical spills immediately. These spills can cause serious damage to your driveway and can be difficult to remove if not cleaned up immediately. Here are some steps to take if you need to clean up an oil or chemical spill on your asphalt driveway:
- Try to identify the type of spill and what caused it. This will help you determine the best way to clean it up.
- If the spill is small, try to clean it up with a rag or paper towel. Be sure to dispose of the rags or paper towels properly so that they don’t create another mess.
- If the spill is large, you may need to call a professional to help clean it up.
- Be sure to avoid walking on the spilled material, as this can spread it around and make the cleanup process more difficult.
Cleaning up an oil or chemical spill on your driveway can be tricky, but it’s important to do it as soon as possible to prevent any damage. Follow these steps and contact a professional if needed to get the job done right.
In addition, grass at the edges of the asphalt paving can become overgrown and prevent water from properly draining away from the driveway. This can cause the asphalt to deteriorate and crack. Regular trimming of the grass will help to keep it under control and your driveway looking neat and clean.
And if you have cracks in your driveway, it is important to repair them as soon as possible. Cracks can allow water to seep into the underlying layers of the asphalt, leading to further damage and instability. Filling cracks with an appropriate sealant and patching agent can help restore your driveway’s appearance and protect it from further damage.
Final Thoughts
If you have any questions about what a new asphalt driveway should look like, you can always reach out to a professional contractor who specializes in asphalt paving. These professionals will be able to answer all of your questions and make sure that your driveway is installed properly and looks great. With the right care and maintenance, your new driveway should last for many years.