5 Things You Need to Know Before Installing an Asphalt Driveway
Thinking of installing an asphalt driveway in your home? That’s a hefty investment! Here are important things you need to know before proceeding.
Pretty much every home in America has a driveway of some sort. The majority of them are made from concrete or asphalt. But how do you know which one is right for your property?
If you are considering an asphalt driveway, there are a few things you need to know. Use these five facts to help you decide if an asphalt driveway is right for you.
- You Can Extend Its Life
Since having an asphalt driveway installed is quite an investment, you’ll want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Typically, you can expect your new driveway to last anywhere from twelve to twenty years.
One significant factor to the lifespan of your driveway is the climate you live in. Shoveling snow in winter can create a lot of wear and tear on your driveway.
To extend the life of your driveway, you need to make it resistant to cracking. Clean your driveway twice a year with a stiff brush and a hose with strong water pressure.
Then every two to five years you should have it sealed. This will create a clean and water-resistant finish.
- Surface Oil Can Happen
Sometimes asphalt driveways develop an oily or tar-like surface substance. This is the ingredients in the asphalt rising to the surface.
You’ll need to be careful not to track this oil into your home. Not only will it make your home dirty, but it isn’t healthy either.
- It’s Environmentally Friendly
Did you know that you can recycle asphalt? But that isn’t the only reason these driveways are kind to the environment. The machines that are used to lay your driveway produce low emissions.
There is no release of chemicals or gasses released into the air when your driveway gets laid.
- It Can Take a While to Cure
It can take a while for your asphalt driveway to cure fully. It can take anywhere from three months to an entire year. While it’s curing, it will be softer, making it easier to damage.
- Hire a Reputable Contractor
To ensure that you have an asphalt driveway that lasts, carefully choose your contractor. You don’t want to accidentally select a fly-by-night service that will take your money in exchange for a poor job.
Ask prospective contractors what they use for a base and how thick they will make it. If you are replacing an old driveway, ask if they will remove the old one first or lay the new one on top.
You can visit https://limitlesspavingandconcrete.com/gaithersburg-md/ to find out more about reputable driveway contractors and what to look for.
Plan Your Asphalt Driveway
If you know that you want to have an asphalt driveway installed on your property, then it is essential to plan properly. You’ll want to pick the right time of year so that it has plenty of time to cure.
Then you’ll want to find the right contractor that will install a quality product. Once installed, you’ll need to care for your new driveway to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
Did you like this article and want to learn more? Then check out the home and garden section of our blog for other great advice.
