Have you recently invested in a new asphalt parking lot or driveway and want to ensure that it lasts? A quality asphalt pavement can last an average of 15-20 years in southeast Wisconsin. The freeze/thaw cycles, along with the type of soil underneath thebase stone are main factors in the life of the pavement. In areas where the freeze/thaw cycle is not as much of a concern, the life expectancy is longer.
Wolf Paving recommends regular maintenance and upkeep to help keep your asphalt protected and to get the most out of your investment. Following these tips can increase the lifespan of your asphalt pavement to 25+ years.
Tip #1: Prevent Water Damage
The best thing to do is to prevent water intrusion through or under the pavement as much as possible. Water is susceptible to freezing and thawing, which prematurely damages the pavement. Try to get good drainage away from the driveway as well. Your paving contractor can help with this as they are going through the paving process.
Tip #2: Sealcoat and Fill Cracks
If there are cracks in the pavement, seal them as adamantly and frequently as needed. Sealcoating periodically will help keep the elements from oxidizing the surface. However, do not overseal, as that will shorten the life of the pavement. Wolf Paving recommends sealcoating every few years. Sealcoat only when the previous sealcoat is worn off by traffic to a point where significant portions of the bare pavement below the sealcoat are showing.
Tip #3: Consider Replacing the Asphalt
If you have followed the above two steps and your pavement still looks worn out, it may be time to think about replacing the asphalt. It may be time to replace the asphalt if it stops functioning mechanically, meaning it does not drain properly, is bumpy, or there is too much settling.
Another reason you may want consider replacing the asphalt is if it just looks bad. If it doesn’t look its best anymore, even after crackfilling and sealcoating, replacement is the only option.
Safety concern is an additional reason to replace the asphalt as well. Slips, falls, or damage to vehicles may be signs the pavement should to be replaced.
In the end, it is up to the customer and what best fits their needs and budget.
The life expectancy varies based on climate, traffic, and maintenance. It is possible to have asphalt pavement last 25-30 years, but this depends on how strong the base is, the soil types underneath, how well those soils drain, how think the original road, parking lot, or drivewaywas paved.
Is it time for crackfilling or sealcoating your asphalt parking lot or driveway? Or is replacing the asphalt a better route for you? Contact Wolf Paving for more information on choosing the best option for your asphalt pavement or to request a quote.
