Asphalt is one of the most enduring paving materials in use today. When properly installed and maintained, it can offer decades of service until its performance begins to degrade. Without proper maintenance, however, your asphalt pavement won’t last nearly as long—meaning you’ll have to worry about repairs or complete replacement sooner than expected. If you want to ensure a longer lifespan for your paving surface that will help protect your investment and save money in the long run, then there are specific actions you should take now to future-proof it against premature wear and tear.

In this blog post, we discuss various strategies for extending the life of an asphalt driveway so that it stands up against the elements over time with minimal maintenance requirements. Keep reading to learn more!

Sealcoating 

Sealcoating is one of the most important steps you can take to extend the life of your asphalt pavement. When applied regularly, it provides a protective layer that helps seal out water and other damaging agents while preserving its underlying structure. This process should be done once a year for three years (depending on the amount of traffic) to keep the pavement in good condition and prevent small cracks from getting more significant.

Clean Regularly 

It’s also essential to keep your pavement clean by removing dust, dirt, and debris that can be abrasive to its surface over time. Use a hose or pressure washer once a month (or more if needed) to ensure that these particles don’t have a chance to accumulate and cause damage. Cleaning your asphalt regularly helps prevent the formation of cracks that can weaken the material and reduce its durability. Second, regular cleaning will remove debris and dirt buildup that can cause water to collect on the surface, leading to erosion and further damage. Finally, a thorough cleaning reveals any existing damage on the surface that can then be addressed with appropriate repairs before the damage becomes too severe.

Weed Control 

Weeds can be particularly problematic for asphalt surfaces as their roots can cause cracks and holes in the pavement. To prevent this, use a weed killer or other herbicide that is designed explicitly for paved surfaces. This will help keep weeds from taking over your driveway and damaging it in the process.

Fill Cracks 

Small cracks can quickly become more significant issues, so it’s essential to fill them as soon as possible with an appropriate asphalt patching material. For example, the majority of professionals prefer to use cold mix asphalt due to its improved longevity and flexibility. Cold mix is made using a combination of aggregates, asphalt cement, and sometimes additives. Hot mix asphalt is another option, but this material is best used for making temporary repairs and is not suitable for permanent pavement installation.

Regular Inspections 

Finally, you should have your asphalt pavement inspected regularly by a professional. This way, they can identify any potential problems before they become costly repairs and recommend necessary maintenance steps to help extend its lifespan.

By taking the above steps, you’ll be able to ensure that your asphalt pavement stands up against the elements over time and gives you years of use without requiring extensive repairs or replacement. If you want to ensure your pavement is future-proofed, look no further than Tejada’s Paving LLC. With over 20 years of asphalt paving experience, we are well-equipped to inspect and repair any asphalt surface. We offer free consultation and estimates for our services. So please don’t wait! Contact us at Tejada’s Paving LLC today to get your pavement future-proofed and ensure a longer lifespan for asphalt surfaces.