Are you encountering problems with your asphalt driveway?

However, your asphalt driveway or pavement may begin to look dull or have cracks post its lifespan.

To fix these issues, you may be looking for a cost-effective solution. Well, you should know that there are a number of asphalt repair methods. The one you should choose will depend on the severity of the asphalt damage.

The good news is you don’t have to replace your entire asphalt driveway if the damage is not extensive. One of the easiest fixes out there is asphalt resurfacing to repair a cracked or deteriorated asphalt surface.

Let’s first see what does Asphalt Resurfacing means.

What is Asphalt Resurfacing?

In short, Asphalt Resurfacing means layering new asphalt over the existing asphalt or concrete surface. This is one of the best options to maintain the appearance and longevity of a driveway or pavement. Whereas resurfacing old asphalt is certainly a more affordable option than replacement or Asphalt Restoration.

Opt for Asphalt Resurfacing if your driveway has issues, such as:

• Mold and staining
• Small cracks due to heavy traffic
• Discoloration in the asphalt surface due to sunlight or uneven shade
• Problem of pooling water due to dips in the surface (Pooled water can further damage the lower layers of the asphalt)

Furthermore, it’s important to check for damage in the lower layers of an asphalt driveway. Putting a new layer of asphalt over an already damaged one may not result in successful resurfacing.

Resurfacing usually adds 1-2 inches of asphalt and corrects structural damage in the surface.

So, how can you make sure that your asphalt driveway or pavement remains in top condition? Let’s see what you can do about it.

Factors to Consider Before Asphalt Resurfacing

To ensure that you maintain and resurface your asphalt driveway in the most efficient manner possible, you should take following steps:

#1. Regular Inspection of Asphalt Surface

You should regularly check for potential damage or cracks in your driveway or pathway. This will prevent any possible damage before it occurs. Usually, cracks or gaps are the first signs of damage. So, ensure that you look out for these signs to prevent them before serious damage. Also, if there are weeds or plants growing through cracks, investigate the spot right away. Then, you can think about the most appropriate measures to rectify these issues.

#2. Asphalt Maintenance

After you detect the problems with the surface, you should take necessary steps to reverse the damage. In the case of smaller areas, you can easily fix the issues through asphalt patching methods. However, if there are extensive problems with the surface, you should go for asphalt resurfacing. Contacting a professional asphalt company can help you in deciding on the best asphalt resurfacing procedure.

#3. Choose the Best Asphalt Resurfacing Method

Resurfacing, when done well, can exponentially enhance the safety and appearance of your driveway. There are many methods used for resurfacing. Choosing the one that best suits your needs is essential.

There are three main asphalt resurfacing methods:

• Overlay: This method takes the shortest time to complete. Basically, it involves applying a fresh layer of asphalt over the previous one. It can last up to 18 years depending on the traffic load and weather conditions. Moreover, thin overlays use recycled materials and hot mix asphalt, so it also reduces waste. Hence, this is a more environment-friendly option.
• Mill and Fill: This method consists removing the existing surface with a milling machine and applying a fresh layer of asphalt. Then, after the layer has cooled down, it’s safe to revert the traffic to normal.
• Hot-in-Place: Under this method, an equipment is used to heat the asphalt. Then, a rejuvenating agent is mixed to improve the recycled asphalt binder viscosity. This new mix is then applied in the area where asphalt has to be replaced. Further, this method is a good option when there are minimal cracks in the asphalt.

Once you choose the best method for your driveway resurfacing, it’s important to plan a maintenance schedule. This will make sure that the asphalt surface remains in good shape.

So, these were some of the factors you should pay attention to for a carefully-planned asphalt resurfacing project. Moreover, there are some more points about asphalt resurfacing you should be aware of.

Let’s check them out in brief.

Asphalt Driveway Resurfacing Tips

Here is an overview of the important considerations to make an informed decision and maintaining the resurfacing:

• Choose asphalt resurfacing when the base layer or sub-grade is intact. In the case of alligator cracks, always go for asphalt reconstruction or total replacement. Remembering this tip will help you in making the right decision between Asphalt Resurfacing Or Replacement.
• Resurfacing is also useful if the surface layer is heavily oxidized.
• Ascertain the quality of the materials used in the resurfacing project. It’s important to know about the source of materials to ensure the highest quality. This will extend the life of your asphalt driveway or pavement.
• After the completion of Asphalt Pavement Resurfacing, stake it off with a tape to keep everyone off the surface.
• Don’t drive on the freshly resurfaced area for at least 24 hours.
• Always choose a reputable Asphalt Resurfacing Contractor. Going for cheap and sub-standard services can impact the end result. Choosing an experienced company can give you great returns on your investment.

So, this was all about asphalt resurfacing and some helpful tips and factors for a hassle-free driveway resurfacing.

Though, you may have many more questions in regards to Asphalt Driveway Resurfacing Cost or cost to repave driveway. Maybe you are also confused over the longevity of the resurfacing work. To clear all your doubts, we have compiled an FAQ, addressing the most common questions people have about asphalt resurfacing.

Asphalt Resurfacing | FAQ’s

#1. What is the Average Cost of Asphalt Resurfacing?

The cost of driveway resurfacing will predominantly depend on three factors:

• The size of the resurfacing site
• Number of repairs required
• The materials chosen for the project

Moreover, the total charge will also depend on the nature of work. Asphalt Resurfacing Companies usually charge different prices for residential and commercial work. And if you need additional services together with resurfacing, then the prices will shift accordingly.

Most companies usually fix their charges on the basis of per square foot of resurfaced asphalt. You can expect to pay a minimum of $2.25 per square foot of the resurfacing area.

In any case, asphalt resurfacing will cost you much less than a total restoration or concrete resurfacing.

READ MORE: Asphalt Resurfacing Over Concrete

#2. How long does Asphalt Resurfacing last?

Asphalt resurfacing longevity will depend on the following factors:

• Weather conditions
• The traffic load on the resurfaced pavement or driveway
• Thickness of the new asphalt application
• The condition of the sub-grade layer before finishing off the resurfacing
• The quality of the drainage system

Generally speaking, a correctly done asphalt resurfacing usually extend the life of your driveway by 8 to 15 years.

#3. How thick should an Asphalt Overlay/Resurfacing be?

The thickness of the right asphalt solution will depend on your pavement or driveway. If there is numerous cracks and water is seeping through, then a thick overlay is more appropriate. Though, when there is slight damage to the surface and minor cracking, a thin overlay would be sufficient.

Moreover, a conventional layer is at least 1.5 inches thick while a thin overlay is usually less than that.

As a residential driveway doesn’t have a lot of traffic, a thickness of 2.5 to 3 inches should be more than sufficient.

#4. How often should you resurface your driveway?

The frequency of asphalt resurfacing will depend on many factors. One of them being weather. It’s better to undertake resurfacing work in the hotter months. Resurfacing in cold weather can lead to cold seams that will cause premature deterioration. Generally, resurfacing is best when the temperature is at or above 50 degree Fahrenheit.

However, a professionally done asphalt resurfacing can easily last up to 15 years. So, there should be no need for a fresh asphalt application before that. Further, the lifespan will also depend on the proper maintenance of the new surface.

READ MORE: How To Resurface Your Asphalt Driveway?

#5. What steps should you take to maintain a new asphalt resurfaced driveway?

It’s vital to implement a driveway maintenance plan as soon as the resurfacing is complete. You should also start budgeting to account for any unexpected expenses on the part of repair work. In the case some cracks start appearing after winters, yearly crack filling and patching will help in maintaining the asphalt surface. Additionally, you should have your catch basin and drainage system inspected yearly.

#6. Should you reconstruct the entire parking lot or just overlay it?

This will depend on the severity of driveway damage. If the underlying asphalt core surface is good, then resurfacing should be enough to fix the upper layer. A good rule of thumb can be to estimate the damage area of the total parking lot. If the damage is in 25-35% area of the parking lot due to problems in the substandard layer, reconstruction is a more economical option.

We hope that the above detailed information will be useful to you in deciding the best resurfacing approach.

However, for expert advice on your particular project, it’s best to consult a professional asphalt repair company. An experienced contractor can easily fix all your asphalt related problems.

Looking for an asphalt company for the resurfacing of your driveway?

Hire the Best Asphalt Repair Company for cost-effective asphalt services.  Get in touch with the best construction company in Toronto, Main Infrastructure.

We are widely recognized as a leader in providing most safe and reliable asphalt repair services across Canada. You can contact us for consultation or any construction work. Moreover, we make use of the most advanced technology and equipment to guarantee the best possible outcome for your project.

Most importantly, safety is an integral part of our culture. Accordingly, we implement a stringent drug and alcohol prevention program to maintain the workplace safety standards.

We have a specialized team of drivers, site personnel, and support staff to take your project to fruition. Our trained and certified team ensures that you get the best quality services while maintaining the integrity of your driveway.

Our team is here to discuss all your Asphalt Resurfacing project needs. Apart from Asphalt Resurfacing, we also offer asphalt services in the following areas:

• Infrared Asphalt Patching
• Manhole/Catch Basin Repair
• Asphalt Crack Sealing
• Pothole Spray Patching
• Asphalt Paving
• Asphalt Pavement Patching
• Sweeping Services
• Vacuum/Hydrovac Services
• Pavement Management Planning

Well, we always strive to offer you the best estimate for your project cutting down unnecessary expenses.

Get in touch with our representatives today for fixing your asphalt driveway.

Call Us: +1 (416) 514 0809

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