Choosing between full asphalt paving and carrying out small repairs on your driveway may be a difficult decision. The decision you make will mostly depend on how your driveway looks, your budget, and what you hope to achieve in the future. Though repairs can fix small concerns, full paving ensures that the area is renovated and looks better. People living in and running businesses in the Lowcountry can depend on Charleston Paving Solutions for professional advice and excellent asphalt paving services that fit their needs. The article looks at what you should think about before picking either asphalt paving or driveway repair.
Ways to Spot When Your Driveway Should Be Completely Paved
1. Extensive Cracking
If cracks happen in several places and link one side of the driveway to the other, it reveals major foundation problems. Many times, these cracks happen because the foundation weakens, the freezing and thawing of water takes place, or heavy loads put pressure on the structure for an extended period. Sometimes, fixing only minor issues means the bigger problem will continue to exist. When the area is completely paved, the cracks go away and the base gains strength, keeping the surface strong and smoother for a long time.
2. The pavement is littered with potholes everywhere.
Apart from being unsightly, potholes make it easier for water to reach the foundation of the road, which can cause more harm. The driveway is in danger when there are many potholes. It is sometimes true that a patch may not last when the issue is a long-term one. Having the existing asphalt removed and the foundation repaired is the main part of the process, followed by laying a new layer of asphalt surface.
3. Aged Asphalt
How long asphalt lasts depends on upkeep and usage; most of these surfaces can last 15 to 20 years. With time, the material becomes much more prone to cracks, potholes, and fading. Paying to fix an old driveway may not be worth it, since problems are likely to come up again soon. After paving is done, your driveway looks brand new and can be used for around twenty more years.
Making little repairs when they are needed can increase the life of your driveway.
Isolated Cracks
Many times, the metal in the body has minor cracks less than a quarter-inch wide and these can easily be dealt with by maintaining the car well. They most often happen because of slight changes in pressure or temperature from the sun. Crack filling with a good sealant prevents water from entering, so the problem does not get worse.
Single Potholes
For a situation where just one pothole has been found and the rest of the area is still good, paving may not be needed. In most cases, potholes are caused by wear at one spot or water seeping into the road. The process of fixing a pothole is cleaning the area, packing it with asphalt, and finishing it by making it smooth.
Changes in Color
As time passes and the sun beats down, asphalt gets gray and loses its color. This design may change the appearance, yet it still does its function. Applying sealcoating is a smart option to make the asphalt look new and be protected from ongoing weather and UV rays. Since seal coating happens regularly, it makes your driveway more attractive and saves it from a lot of wear and tear.
These drainage problems may seem minor.
In most cases, areas where water pools are not too large can be solved with simple repairs. Sometimes, these problems can happen because of small indentations in the road or clogged gutters and drains. Cleaning the drainage channels while repairing small sections can help deal with the issue. Fixing your small drainage issues quickly keeps the water from standing and prevents bigger issues such as cracks or potholes.
Comparing How Much Repair and Paving Expenses
Initial Investment
The process of covering everything in paving means paying more upfront because of the costs of supplies, initial preparatory work, and staff. Nevertheless, this method gives customers a fresh surface along with better potential for both durability and appearance. When it comes to repairs, they don’t cost much to start with and are preferred for simple problems. People who own their homes should compare the short-term expenses to the benefits that will last for years.
Long-Term Costs
At first, repairs help you save funds, but due to repeated use, you may need to spend more in the future. Full paving means you will not need to maintain it as much, which can be more economical in the end. Paving is a good idea for driveways that are used a lot or are nearing the moment they need to be replaced.
How Do Each Option Impact Nature
Material Usage
Depleting resources can happen in full paving projects because they need greater amounts of asphalt and aggregate. Repairs are meant to preserve the current surface, which cuts down on resources being used. Whenever possible, environmentally concerned homeowners choose to repair their houses rather than replace them.
Energy Consumption
The energy required for paving equipment is more than what is necessary for small repairs. Because of all the energy this method requires, paving projects may end up creating more carbon emissions. Making repairs is a better choice environmentally since it uses less energy.
Recycling Opportunities
Being one of the most recycled materials, asphalt helps to make full paving a good choice for the environment. Old asphalt that is taken off during repaving can be crushed and then be utilized for other projects. Unfortunately, repairing a car isn’t good for the environment, as it involves adding rather than reusing parts.
Supporting our environment for now and in the future
At first, fixing something may look more sustainable, but since the repair does not last long, you may need to do it again soon. When the entire site is paved, it is more durable, so maintenance is less required, which eventually equals the environmental impact.
Conclusion
The best option is determined by the way your driveway looks, the funds you have, and your future plans. It is good to use repairs for small issues that won’t last, but for bigger or lasting issues, paving the entire area is the ideal choice. If you own property in Charleston’s Lowcountry, Charleston Paving Solutions will help you choose and repair your driveway. When you use the services of skilled professionals, your driveway can work well and still look good for years ahead.