Your driveway is more than just a place to park—it’s one of the first things people notice about your home or business. A well-maintained asphalt driveway boosts curb appeal, prevents costly repairs, and extends the life of your pavement. Whether it’s freshly paved or a few years old, proper upkeep is essential.
Here are our top driveway maintenance tips to help you protect your investment and keep your asphalt surface looking its best year-round.
1. Sealcoat Your Driveway Every Few Years
One of the most effective ways to preserve your driveway through proper maintenance is by applying a sealcoat every 2–3 years. Sealcoating adds a protective barrier that shields your asphalt from damaging UV rays, oil stains, water infiltration, and harsh weather. It also refreshes the color of your pavement, making it look brand new.
Tip: Don’t seal too soon after paving—a new asphalt driveway needs to cure for about 6 months before sealing.
Understanding Driveway Materials and Durability
2. Clean Concrete Driveways Regularly to Prevent Staining and Deterioration
Leaves, debris, dirt, and oil can all damage your asphalt if left unchecked. Sweep your driveway regularly and wash it down with a hose or pressure washer as needed. Be sure to clean up oil, gas, or chemical spills right away—these substances can eat away at the asphalt binder and cause soft spots or crumbling. Regular cleaning not only prevents damage but also enhances curb appeal, making your property more attractive and valuable.
3. Watch for and Repair Cracks Early with Crack Filler
Tiny cracks can turn into major problems if water seeps in and freezes, leading to significant driveway damage. Freezing and thawing cycles will expand the cracks, weaken the surface, and create potholes over time.
Use crack filler to seal minor cracks before they spread. For larger cracks or visible damage, call in a professional asphalt contractor to perform the necessary repairs.
When considering driveway repair options, it’s important to evaluate the costs associated with different methods. If repair isn’t feasible, replacement may be necessary, and costs can vary depending on the material and size of the driveway.
4. Avoid Heavy Loads and Sharp Objects
While asphalt is durable, it’s not indestructible. Try to avoid parking heavy trucks or equipment in the same spot for long periods, as this can create depressions or rutting. Snow removal can also impact your driveway, especially during heavy snowfall. Use safe techniques and tools to avoid damaging the surface.
Also, be careful when using snow shovels or metal tools—sharp edges can gouge or scrape the surface, especially on newly paved or sealed driveways. Avoid using metal shovels, as they can scratch or damage the concrete, and opt for gentler alternatives like plastic shovels.
5. Manage Water Drainage Around Your Driveway
Standing water is one of asphalt’s worst enemies. If your driveway doesn’t drain properly, water can pool on the surface or seep beneath it, leading to cracks, erosion, and foundation issues.
Tree roots can also impact water drainage and cause significant damage to driveways by shifting, cracking, and breaking apart the concrete.
Make sure downspouts, gutters, and surrounding landscaping direct water away from your driveway. If water is pooling regularly, consult a contractor to explore grading or drainage solutions.
6. Schedule Routine Inspections
Even if your driveway looks fine on the surface, issues can develop underneath or in hard-to-see areas. Have a professional inspect your driveway every couple of years to catch small problems before they turn into expensive repairs. Professionals use specialized equipment during inspections to ensure thorough and accurate assessments.
Need Help Maintaining or Repairing Your Driveway?
At Quality Paving and Concrete, we specialize in helping homeowners and property managers protect their driveways with expert maintenance, repairs, and resurfacing. Whether it’s time to sealcoat, patch a crack, or install a brand-new asphalt surface, we’ve got the tools and experience to do it right.
Contact us today for a free driveway assessment or maintenance plan tailored to your property.