5 Tips for Maintaining Your Asphalt Driveway in Virginia
5 Tips to Keep Your Driveway in Tip-Top Shape
Introduction
Your driveway is one of the most important investments you can make as a homeowner. With proper maintenance, an asphalt driveway can last for many years, but in Virginia, temperature fluctuations, humidity, and heavy rainfalls can all take their toll on your driveway. Regular maintenance is critical for extending the life of your driveway. In this post, we'll give you 5 tips for maintaining your asphalt driveway in Virginia.
Tip #1: Sealcoating
Sealcoating is a protective layer that is applied to the driveway's surface to protect it from the elements. It helps to keep water and other liquids from penetrating the asphalt and causing damage over time. Sealcoating should be done every 2-3 years, depending on the amount of wear and tear on the driveway. It's critical to schedule sealcoating in Virginia at the right time to avoid extreme heat or cold, for example.
Tip #2: Ensure Proper Drainage
Proper drainage is critical for preventing driveway damage. Water can penetrate the asphalt and cause cracks and other damage. To avoid this, ensure that the driveway slopes away from the foundation of your home and that any gutters or downspouts direct water away from the driveway. In Virginia, look for any low-lying areas on the driveway that could collect water and cause damage.
Tip #3: Avoid Using Certain Chemicals
Certain chemicals, such as gasoline, oil, and de-icing salts, can harm your driveway. It's critical to keep these chemicals from spilling on the driveway and to clean them up as soon as possible if they do. In Virginia, where there is a lot of snow and ice in the winter, it's critical to be cautious about the type of de-icing salt you use, as some can be more harmful than others.
Tip #4: Cleaning on a Regular Basis
Cleaning the driveway on a regular basis is essential for removing debris and stains. This can help to prevent long-term damage. It's a good idea to sweep the driveway on a regular basis and to clean any stains with a mild detergent and water. Because debris and stains accumulate faster in Virginia, it's important to clean your driveway more frequently.
Tip #5: Hire a Professional Inspector
A professional inspection of your driveway is critical for identifying potential problems early on. A professional can detect small cracks or other damage that an untrained eye may miss. Every year, especially before the winter months, it's a good idea to schedule an inspection. In Virginia, where the weather can be harsh, it's critical to have a professional inspect the condition of your driveway before the winter to avoid damage.
Tip #6: Repairs
It's critical to have any cracks or other damage on your driveway repaired as soon as possible. Small cracks can grow into larger issues if left untreated, resulting in costly repairs down the road. In Virginia, where temperatures can vary greatly, it's critical to have any cracks or damage repaired as soon as possible to avoid them expanding due to temperature changes.
Conclusion
Maintaining your asphalt driveway in Virginia requires regular attention, but by following these five tips, you can ensure that your driveway lasts for many years. Remember to sealcoat, ensure proper drainage, avoid certain chemicals, clean regularly, have a professional inspection and schedule any repairs as soon as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require assistance with the upkeep of your driveway. We are asphalt paving and maintenance experts who are always happy to assist.
