Get Your Asphalt Driveway Maintained and Repaired in New Orleans, Louisiana Today
Has your asphalt driveway in New Orleans started to show signs of age? With our hot and humid weather, extreme temperatures, and occasional flooding, the asphalt surfaces on your property require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition.
The maintenance of your asphalt surface is essential for its extended life and for avoiding costly repairs. When you live in a climate like New Orleans—with plenty of rain and humidity—you need to take special care when it comes to taking care of your driveway or parking lot.
Proper maintenance will ensure that your asphalt surface lasts longer and looks better. In this guide from Big Easy Asphalt, we’ll discuss what types of maintenance are needed to keep your asphalt driveway looking its best in New Orleans. You’ll also learn about the common mistakes people make when caring for their asphalt drives and how you can avoid them.
How Long Does an Asphalt Driveway Last?
An asphalt driveway typically lasts between 15 to 30 years, depending on how well it is maintained. The key to a long-lasting driveway is proper maintenance and preventative measures, such as crack filling, seal coating, and pothole repairs. Additionally, choosing higher-quality asphalt mixtures that contain polymer-modified binders can lead to a longer life.
If the topsoil beneath the driveway has a steep slope or poor drainage systems, this can cause erosion and deterioration of the asphalt over time. With the right maintenance and preventative measures in place, however, an asphalt driveway can last up to 30 years or more.
What Impacts the Lifespan of an Asphalt Driveway in New Orleans?
The lifespan of an asphalt driveway in New Orleans is impacted by many factors, including temperature, humidity, and rainfall amounts. In particular, New Orleans summers can be hot and humid, which can cause more rapid deterioration of the pavement than in other climates.
Additionally, heavy rains with high levels of acidity can accelerate chemical oxidation and cause accelerated aging of the asphalt surface.
To prolong its lifespan, homeowners should have their asphalt driveway sealed every few years to protect it from weather damage and wear and tear. Proper maintenance such as ensuring that weeds are not growing around the edges of the pavement will also help to maximize its longevity.
What is Asphalt?
Asphalt is a sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. It’s composed of bitumen, which is a mixture of organic substances that remains after the long process of oil refining.
Asphalt is an important material used in road construction due to its durability, skid resistance, and waterproofing properties. Asphalt can also be used as a waterproof membrane in roofing, as well as in soundproofing projects. It is frequently used to create pavements, car parks, and driveways because it’s less expensive than concrete and easier to lay down.
Why Do Asphalt Driveways Break Down?
Asphalt driveways break down over time due to weathering, oxidation, and the freeze-thaw cycle. Hot temperatures in the summer can cause the asphalt to expand and crack, while cold temperatures in the winter can cause it to contract and erode.
Rainfall washes away oils from the asphalt leaving it vulnerable to further damage from traffic. The UV radiation from the sun can also break down asphalt over time, creating potholes and other defects. With repeated freezing and thawing cycles, pavement joints are broken up which accelerates the deterioration of the entire asphalt surface.
How to Care for Your New Asphalt Driveway
Caring for a new asphalt driveway is essential to ensure it lasts for many years. First, be sure to seal coat the surface every three years to protect it from water, chemicals, and oxidation from the sun.
Additionally, check regularly for any cracks in the surface and use a crack filler to repair them quickly before they worsen. Finally, prevent snow build-up in winter by shoveling it away or using a deicer that won’t damage the asphalt. Overall, the maintenance of an asphalt driveway is key to preserving its condition over time.
How Much Does an Asphalt Driveway Maintenance Cost?
The cost of asphalt driveway maintenance varies depending on the size of your driveway, the extent of repair needed, and local labor and material costs. Generally, a basic crack patching and seal coating job starts around $100 for a single-car driveway, while extensive repairs such as leveling or complete resurfacing can cost upwards of $1000+.
For larger driveways and more complex jobs, it is best to reach out to local paving companies for quotes. It’s also important to remember that in addition to making any necessary repairs, regular maintenance such as seal coating will help increase the life expectancy of your asphalt driveway and make sure that it remains in good condition for many years to come.
Repair Your Asphalt Driveway’s Cracks and Holes With Professional Services From Big Easy Asphalt
Are you a New Orleans, Louisiana resident looking to get your asphalt driveway maintained and repaired? Look no further than our team of professionals at Big Easy Asphalt who provide quality work you can trust.
We specialize in preventive maintenance and repairs so that you can get the most out of your driveway for years to come.
Whether you are looking to maintain your driveway or repair any issues it may have, choosing our company will leave you feeling confident that the job is done right and is guaranteed to last. Call us today or visit our website to book an appointment for your asphalt repair needs in New Orleans!