You’ve just had your commercial parking lot repaved, or a new asphalt driveway installed, wondering how long the job will last. It’s a common question with a complex answer because many variables determine the lifespan of an asphalt surface.
Asphalt paving can be easily damaged by both the hot summers and cold winters in Naperville, Illinois. So, how long does an asphalt driveway last? An asphalt driveway will last approximately 15 to 20 years. Here are some key elements that affect how long an asphalt driveway or parking lot lasts so you can better understand what to expect for your investment.
Asphalt Paving Driveway Lifespan
A number of factors determine the lifespan of an asphalt driveway. Here are some key elements that affect how long an asphalt driveway lasts.
Right and High-Quality Materials
The asphalt mixture’s quality: A lower-quality mix is more likely to fracture and fall apart over time. If you’re mixing a higher-quality solution, it will last much longer. Typically, asphalt driveways are less expensive than concrete ones and can last up to 20 years.
The types of asphalt: There are two types: hot mix and cold mix. Hot mix asphalt is the most durable option for a new driveway, while cold mix asphalt is less expensive but not as tough.
Standard Guidelines and Procedures
The asphalt’s thickness: The thicker the asphalt, the longer it will last. A driveway with a thickness of two inches will not last as long as one four inches thick. If you’ve just built a new driveway, make sure it’s at least four inches thick.
The drainage: To keep potholes from developing, ensure that your driveway has proper drainage to avoid water from leaking under the asphalt and causing soil erosion.
Location and Usage of an Asphalt Driveway
The quantity of traffic: Your driveway will suffer wear and tear more quickly if used by multiple cars. If multiple cars often use your driveway, it is necessary to have it inspected and repaired more regularly. The more people that use your driveway, the greater the strain and wear it will endure. It is essential to select a material that can put up with high amounts of wear and tear.
The weight of the vehicle: A vehicle’s weight affects how long an asphalt driveway will last. Driveways are more likely to suffer long-term damage from large trucks and buses than smaller vehicles. If your driveway is constantly used, it may need to be inspected and repaired more often.
The weather conditions: Extreme climates, such as snowfall, ice storms, and heavy rainfall can damage your driveway and lead to a decreased lifespan for your asphalt pavement. If your area has a long winter, the freeze-thaw cycle might cause cracks in your concrete and asphalt driveways. The excessive heat can damage your asphalt driveway if you live somewhere with hot summers. The asphalt may soften and be more vulnerable to damage in arid or warmer climates. The asphalt may fracture due to the extreme cold in colder areas.
Temperature and Weather Conditions
The weather conditions during installation: If the temperature is too hot or cold, or if it rains during installation, the asphalt will not cure properly and will be more likely to crack. Make sure the paving contractor checks the weather forecast before starting the job.
The weather conditions after installation: Asphalt is affected by both hot and cold weather. In hot weather, the asphalt expands and becomes soft; in cold weather, it contracts and becomes brittle. These temperature changes can cause cracks to form in your driveway. To protect your driveway from these temperature changes, make sure it is properly sealed.
Working With Asphalt Paving Experts
The Proper Installation Process: The durability of your driveway may also depend on how it is installed. Make sure you hire an experienced paving contractor who knows how to install an asphalt driveway properly. If the contractor doesn’t follow the proper installation process, your driveway may not last as long as it should.
Asphalt Paving Maintenance: To prolong the lifespan of your driveway, it’s important to have it regularly inspected and repaired. Small cracks can be filled with asphalt sealant, while larger cracks and potholes should be repaired by an asphalt paving contractor. It’s also important to have your driveway sealed every few years to protect it from the elements. Properly maintaining your driveway can ensure that it will last for many years.
With these things in mind, you can anticipate your driveway to endure for a long time and keep its appealing look for years.
Premier Asphalt is a professional paving contractor in Naperville, Illinois, that offers excellent services to homeowners and businesses. We are experts in a wide range of paving services, from asphalt driveway installation to repair and maintenance. With over four decades in the paving industry, we can provide a great job on your pavement! If you’re considering an asphalt driveway for your home or business in Naperville, Illinois, contact Premier Asphalt for a free estimate!