When Is The Best Time To Repair Your Driveway?
When Is The Best Time To Repair Your Driveway?
Over time, heavy vehicles, the elements, erosion and oil leaks can wear down a driveway’s surface. It can fade, crack, stain and even cause drainage problems that can lead to costly repairs or replacement. In some cases, repairing your driveway can extend its lifespan and give you years of use before it needs to be replaced. But when the time comes, you need to decide whether a repair is enough or if a complete replacement is your best option.
Spring
Spring is a great time to repair or replace your driveway. Milder temperatures and less moisture in the air allow concrete or asphalt to set up more easily. It is also important to check the ground underneath your driveway for puddles and other potential problems that might develop during the rainy season. This is particularly true for gravel-based driveways. A professional can assess this and help you make necessary repairs before they get worse.
Summer
If you have an asphalt driveway, it’s a good idea to seal it every year or so. This will prevent water from seeping into the cracks, which can lead to extensive damage over time. The best time to seal a driveway is midsummer. This is because the materials expand in summer heat, and that means the pores will be able to absorb the sealant better. Similarly, asphalt repairs are also often best saved for warmer weather. This is because asphalt stays at about 175 degrees, which means it can mix well and bond more strongly, improving its durability.
Fall
If you’re thinking about repairing or replacing your driveway, there are several factors to consider. The best time to pave your driveway is between late spring and early fall, when temperatures are high enough for the asphalt to properly cure before winter sets in. Autumn is also a great time to replace and repair driveway cracks, as the weather will be warm enough for the seal coating to properly cure. This makes the surface coating more durable and will prevent future problems.
Winter
As the weather turns cold, asphalt begins to crack and lose its strength and integrity. This is because of the freeze-thaw cycles that occur in wintertime. This cycle causes water to pool and expand in small potholes and cracks. These are a big cause of pavement cracking in winter, so repairing them before the cold months are over will help to keep your driveway intact for years to come.
Categorised in: Asphalt, Asphalt Pavement, Driveways, Uncategorized