Asphalt driveways often last for many years, but eventually UV rays and temperature extremes cause the asphalt to deteriorate and the driveway shows its age. You can have a sealcoat applied to prolong the life of your driveway as long as possible, but when it is covered in crumbled areas and cracks, it's time to think about resurfacing or replacing your driveway. Resurfacing could be the best option as long as the soil is still compacted well and the driveway is draining properly. Here's a look at how the resurfacing process works.

Repairs Are Done To Damaged Areas

When your driveway is resurfaced, new asphalt is poured on it, so minor cracks and potholes are automatically filled in. However, if your driveway has extensive crumbling, the damage will be repaired first so the damage won't bleed through the new layer of asphalt. One way to do that is to cover your driveway or just the damaged areas in fabric to cover the damage. Waterproof fabric is used as a form of protection that keeps water from seeping into the base when the new layer of asphalt is put on. Your contractor assesses the extent of the damage on your driveway to determine the best way to repair the damage and prep the surface for applying the new asphalt.

The Surface Is Prepared

The surface of your old driveway is prepped in some way so the new asphalt will adhere well. This might involve milling the surface first. This removes part of the asphalt so the new layer won't be too high along the edges. This creates debris on the surface that is then blown off so the asphalt is clean with nothing in the way to interfere with bonding. Then a tack coat is applied that helps the two layers of asphalt adhere to each other.

New Asphalt Is Poured

The rest of the process is similar to putting in a new driveway. Hot asphalt is spread over the old driveway to the desired thickness so the driveway looks brand new when the job is complete. You won't want to seal the asphalt right away, but applying a sealcoat every few years helps maintain the new asphalt and it may allow you to get several more years of life from your old driveway.

Restoring your driveway starts with an inspection by a paving contractor who looks at things like the stability of the base, drainage, and condition of the asphalt. A plan for resurfacing using the right approach is then developed so you get the best results and your driveway looks new without any old damage showing through.