Common Problems with Asphalt

Asphalt is a great material to use for driveways. It is cheap to install, easy to maintain, and lasts for decades when properly maintained. However, it can present you with problems, especially when not cared for. Here are four common problems that an asphalt driveway can encounter, as well as solutions for fixing or preventing them.

Alligator Cracking

Also known as spider web cracking, this issue is characterized by lots of small cracks in the asphalt which cause it to look like alligator skin (see the picture above). Generally caused by structural damage, the best way to fix this is to cut out the affected pavement and patch the area with hot-mix asphalt.

Potholes

Potholes generally form in the spring but are caused by winter weather. If snow isn't completely removed from your driveway after a storm, the water can penetrate the surface of your asphalt driveway. As the weather changes, this water will repeatedly thaw and freeze, causing it to expand and damage the pavement. The best way to prevent this is by always keeping your driveway clear of snow, slush, ice, and water.

Discoloration

Over time, your asphalt's beautiful black finish will begin to fade to a grayish-brown color. If you notice this starting to happen to your driveway, get it professionally sealcoated. Sealcoating your driveway not only improves its appearance; it provides an extra layer of defense and extends its lifespan.

Edge Cracks

Edge cracks appear within two feet of the edge of your driveway. They are usually caused by poor drainage conditions and excessive weight loads. The best way to prevent your driveway from cracking on the edge is by avoiding driving on the perimeter. When parking your car, always try to keep it as close to the center of your driveway as possible.

If your Long Island home is in need of an asphalt driveway installation or repaving, call Stasi Brothers at 516-997-PAVE. We are Long Island's oldest asphalt and masonry contractor and hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. For more information about our company and the services we provide, click here to visit our website or connect with us on Facebook.

How to Prevent Potholes in Your Driveway

Potholes are not only an eyesore, they are a hazard to your car. Whether on the street or in your own driveway, potholes can cause all sorts of problems including flat tires, rim damage, and steering system misalignment. If you are worried about potholes forming in your new driveway, use the tips in this article to prevent them.

How do potholes form?

Potholes are created when water penetrates the surface of the concrete and freezes. As the water begins to freeze, it expands, causing it to take up more and more space until the pavement is forced to bend and crack in order to make room. When the ice thaws and the water contracts, the pavement contracts too, leaving gaps and cracks on the surface. These cracks continue to get worse as more and more water enters and the cycle of expansion and contraction occurs over and over again. When the weight of an entire car drives over these weak spots, the concrete can't handle the pressure and begins to break one small piece at a time – which eventually leads to the formation of potholes.

How can I prevent potholes in my asphalt driveway?

Now that you know how potholes are formed, you have a better idea of how to prevent them. Some of the best prevention methods that we recommend are:

• Keep your driveway clean. Remember when you were a little kid and your mom told you that if you keep things clean they will last longer? Well, she was right. Keeping your asphalt driveway clean of snow, water, oil, and even yard clippings will go a long way in preserving its appearance.
• Sealcoat often. The first step in the formation of potholes occurs when water penetrates your driveway and seeps into the ground below the concrete. When a driveway is sealcoated, it adds a layer of protection on top which prevents water from passing through. Keeping a good sealcoating schedule will help prevent the seepage of water into your driveway and go a long way in keeping it free of potholes.
• Fix cracks before they become potholes. Potholes don't form overnight, it is a long and slow cycle which must repeat itself several times. Pay attention to your driveway for warning signs that potholes are on the horizon. If you see an area in your driveway cracking, be proactive and patch the cracks up before they turn into something worse.

If your driveway is covered in potholes, a repaving may be the best option. If you live in Nassau County and need your driveway paved, call Stasi Brothers at 516-997-7283. Stasi Brothers is Long Island's oldest and most reputable paving contractor, serving the area and its residents for a proud 52 years. For more information about our company, visit our website or like us on Facebook.