Your Asphalt Driveway: Resurface or Replace
You’ve been noticing some issues with your asphalt driveway lately. Perhaps there are some cracks or potholes, or the surface is just starting to show its age in the form of faded color and general wear and tear. So what do you do? Resurface it or replace it entirely?
There are a few factors you’ll want to consider before making your decision. We have made this article short and straight to the point, to give the salient points you need for the decision. The factors themselves are self explanatory as you read them, but we have added a few explanatory considerations under each one.
Resurfacing Options
If you decide to resurface your driveway, there are several options to choose from:
Concrete Resurfacing
Concrete can be resurfaced with a variety of materials, including concrete overlay mixes, textured concrete coatings, and stamped concrete. Concrete overlay over asphalt driveways in place of asphalt overlay over an asphalt driveway is not recommended because the concrete will not bond to the asphalt.
The lifespan of a concrete resurfacing job will depend on the quality of the materials used, the method of installation, and the weather conditions in your area. However, you can expect it to last anywhere from 3-10 years. Overlays can be applied to both concrete and asphalt surfaces, and they offer a variety of benefits, including:
- A wide range of design options
- Enhanced durability
- Improved resistance to weathering, staining, and cracking
- Easy maintenance
Asphalt Resurfacing
Asphalt can be resurfaced with asphalt millings or asphalt overlays. Asphalt millings are recycled pieces of asphalt that can be laid down as a new surface. This is a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. Asphalt overlays are a layer of new asphalt that is laid over the existing surface. This can add both aesthetic appeal and extra protection against weathering and cracking.
Asphalt resurfacing has a few pros and cons:
Pros:
- It is a less expensive option than replacing the entire asphalt surface.
- It can add extra protection against weathering and cracking.
- It can improve the appearance of the asphalt surface.
Cons:
- It may not last as long as replacing the entire asphalt surface.
- The new surface may not bond well with the old surface.
- The new surface may not be as smooth as a new asphalt surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can lay new asphalt over old asphalt but there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The first is the thickness of the new asphalt. It should be at least 2 inches thick in order to bond well with the old surface and provide a smooth, even finish. The second is the condition of the old surface.
The lifespan of an asphalt overlay depends on a number of factors, including the thickness of the new layer, the traffic volume and weight on the surface, and the climate. In general, an asphalt overlay can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years.
It usually takes about 24 hours for resurfaced asphalt to dry and be ready for traffic. However, depending on the weather conditions, it can take up to 72 hours for the asphalt to fully cure.
Sealing your asphalt driveway can help to prolong its lifespan. Sealing the driveway will help to prevent water and ice from seeping into cracks and causing further damage. It will also protect the asphalt from the sun’s UV rays, which can cause it to deteriorate over time.
Asphalt is a type of pavement that is made from a mixture of gravel, sand, and bitumen. Blacktop is a type of asphalt that has been mixed with pitch to make it more durable.
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