Answers to Your Paving Questions

With proper installation and regular maintenance, residential asphalt driveways typically last 15-20 years, while concrete driveways last 20-30 years. Commercial parking lots generally last 12-15 years for asphalt and 20-25 years for concrete, depending on traffic volume. Factors that affect lifespan include installation quality, drainage, climate conditions, and maintenance practices. Regular sealcoating every 2-3 years can significantly extend the life of your asphalt surfaces.

For an average residential asphalt driveway, the complete installation process typically takes 2-3 days. Concrete driveways require 3-5 days including curing time. This includes proper preparation of the base, material installation, and initial curing time. Larger projects or those requiring extensive ground preparation may take longer. We provide a specific timeline during your consultation based on your project's unique requirements.

For asphalt driveways, we recommend avoiding vehicle traffic for at least 72 hours after installation. Pedestrian traffic is usually fine after 24 hours. Concrete surfaces need 7 days before vehicle traffic and 24-48 hours for pedestrian use. During hot weather, asphalt takes longer to fully cure, so we may recommend keeping vehicles off for up to 5 days. Commercial parking lots may have different timelines based on material thickness and traffic expectations.

Asphalt requires regular cleaning, addressing small cracks before they expand, and applying sealcoating every 2-3 years. Concrete needs periodic cleaning, joint sealing, and occasional resealing of decorative finishes. Both materials benefit from prompt repairs of any damage and periodic professional assessment. Proper maintenance significantly extends the lifespan of both asphalt and concrete surfaces.

Asphalt is more flexible, less expensive, and faster to install than concrete. It also performs better in freeze-thaw conditions and can be used sooner after installation. Repairs to asphalt are usually simpler and less visible than concrete repairs. Concrete generally lasts longer (20-30 years versus 15-20 for asphalt) but comes with a higher initial cost and longer installation and curing times. Concrete offers more design options including decorative finishes, stamps, and colors.

Sealcoating is the application of a protective layer over asphalt that shields it from damage caused by UV rays, water, vehicle fluids, and other elements. This preventative maintenance helps prevent cracks, extends your asphalt's lifespan, improves appearance, and provides substantial long-term cost savings by delaying the need for major repairs or replacement.

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In some cases, we can overlay new asphalt on an existing surface, which is more cost-effective than complete replacement. However, this is only recommended when the existing base is stable and the current asphalt has minimal damage. During our assessment, we'll evaluate whether an overlay is suitable or if removal and replacement would provide better long-term results.

Asphalt installation requires temperatures generally above 50°F for proper compaction and curing. Rain can prevent proper installation since the asphalt needs to be applied to a dry base. We carefully schedule projects accounting for weather forecasts, but occasionally projects may need to be rescheduled due to unexpected weather conditions to ensure quality results.

Proper drainage is critical for asphalt longevity. During our initial assessment, we evaluate your property's natural water flow and design the asphalt surface with appropriate slopes (typically 2-3%) to direct water away from buildings and prevent pooling. For properties with existing drainage challenges, we may recommend additional solutions like French drains or catch basins.

Every property is unique, and we're here to help address your specific concerns. Contact us today at 470-497-9955 for a free consultation and estimate. Our experienced team will assess your property, understand your needs, and provide clear, honest recommendations for your paving project.