Driveway Repair: Should You Resurface or Repave

You are looking at your asphalt entrance and it seems to be in bad shape. What should you do? Does some repair work do the trick? If the driveway is resurfaced, or does the whole thing have to be ripped off and redone from scratch?

Perhaps the best thing to do is to consult a few asphalt paving contractors and get their opinions, and estimates. This article briefs you about ​​what is going on, what to look for in asphalt paving contractor and what to include in your contract.

Say no to cracks!

The asphalt coating is hard and brittle, and as a result, cracks develop over time. Ranging from hair to an inch or more in width, cracks are the worst enemy of your driveway, because they allow water to flow in. In cold climates, they can be very destructive and can badly damage your driveway. If the water gets into the cracks it expands and turns into ice. And even in hot climates, water penetration can cause severe damage. The larger the crack, the more serious the problem and the sooner it needs to be fixed. Cracks that are left unrepaired will lead to severe pavement deterioration and even base layers, requiring a complete replacement of the driveway and sooner or later in cold climates.

Can it be fixed or do you need a new driveway?

What needs to be pulled out of your existing driveway and install a new one, or can it be done by resurfacing or even patchwork and crack-filling depends largely on the condition of the base layers or foundation. However, if the cracks cover 3/4 of the aisle, the surface is too far to repair. The root of the problems can come from below and a complete overhaul must be considered.

If your entry has been repeatedly repeated with hot mixed asphalt and continues to deteriorate prematurely, there is probably a problem with the foundation and you should consider installing a brand new driveway. Similarly, if there are areas that have trench or elevations, they should be completely rebuilt from the base. If you have several of these areas, a new aisle makes sense.

Tips for Hiring asphalt paving companies

It is best to deal with licensed companies. When you hire right paving companies to resurface or install a new asphalt driveway, always get a list of references and check them out. Ask for references about the quality of the contractor's work, their attention to detail, and whether the work was completed over time. You can even go inspect the previous work.

What to include in the contract

Once you decide on an asphalt contractor, consider these points when developing a contract:

Clarify who is responsible for re-hanging grids or gates, if necessary, due to raised pavement levels.

Who will raise water valves or inlets to meet the asphalt around them you, a plumber, or someone else? Who pays?

Specify that the surface should be levelled to ensure adequate drainage.

For new installations, specifies that the sub grade will be compacted before the base coat is applied.

Include payment schedule and a finished product warranty.