Asphalt doesn't last forever, but it can be long-lasting if you take proper care of it. Over time and with weather it can begin to breakdown and start to crack or crumble. When this happens, you can start making repairs to your driveway. At some point though, you will need to completely replace your driveway. If you aren't sure if you should repair or replace your driveway, read on for information and tips to help you care for your asphalt.

Repair Or Replace?

Repairing your driveway is easy to do, you simply fill in the cracks with asphalt crack fill, which is usually much like a tube of caulk. If you have holes in the driveway, you can use an asphalt patch kit. Be sure to keep weeds out of your driveway cracks and spray them often to prevent them from making even more cracks. Repair your driveway when you only have a few cracks and holes or dips.

If your driveway is beginning to crumble or you have multiple cracks and the cracks are deep, it may be best to replace your driveway altogether. It can be difficult to repair a crumbling driveway, even with a lot of asphalt coat, the crumbling driveway will begin to crumble again. Consider having the entire driveway ripped out and replaced with new asphalt. You may even be able to have your driveway resurfaced rather than completely torn out. Talk to an asphalt contractor about your driveway and what is the best option.

Asphalt Care Tips

Caring for your asphalt driveway should be done in order to keep it looking like new and to prevent cracks and crumbling.

1. Be sure to mow away from your driveway, as grass clippings can get into the tiniest of cracks in the driveway and cause grass and weeds to grow through. If you do get grass clippings on your driveway, use a blower to blow them away.
2. Seal your driveway every couple of years to keep it looking like new and to prevent cracks and crumbling.
3. Clean up spills such as paint, oil, or grease from your driveway to prevent it from soaking in and causing stains or a breakdown of your driveway.
4. Don't park anything too heavy on your driveway, as it can cause damage to your asphalt.

If you aren't sure if you should replace or repair your asphalt driveway, consult an asphalt contractor for help. Follow the tips above to help you care for your asphalt and to lengthen the life of your driveway.