An asphalt driveway is a big investment. And similarly to any investment, you want it to last long. But how long should an asphalt driveway last?

An asphalt driveway should last anywhere from 15 to 35 years with proper installation and maintenance. However, several factors can shorten its lifespan, such as poor drainage, lack of sealcoating, insufficient thickness, traffic volume, etc.

An asphalt driveway that is properly installed and maintained can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. However, most driveways only last 12 to 20 years due to a lack of maintenance or poor installation.

Why Do Asphalt Pavement Fail Prematurely

Many variables can affect the lifespan of an asphalt driveway. Some of these variables include the quality of the asphalt mix, the thickness of the pavement, the climate, traffic volume, and maintenance.

The first factor that will affect your asphalt driveway’s life expectancy is the quality of the asphalt mix. A lower quality mix makes it more likely to crack and crumble over time. Conversely, a higher quality mix will be more durable and last longer.

The second factor is the thickness of the pavement. A thicker layer of asphalt will last longer than a thin layer. However, laying down a thick layer of asphalt is also more expensive. As such, you’ll need to weigh the cost vs. the longevity when deciding how thick to make your driveway.

The climate is another important factor. Hotter temperatures will cause the asphalt to degrade faster than in cooler climates. The heat causes the asphalt to soften and become more pliable, making it more susceptible to damage from traffic and weather.

Traffic volume is also a significant factor. In case of heavy traffic in your driveway, it will wear out faster than a driveway that doesn’t get much traffic. The constant weight of vehicles passing over the pavement will cause it to break down and crack over time.

Improper drainage installation can also lead to a shorter lifespan for your driveway. If water isn’t properly drained off the pavement, it will seep into cracks and cause them to widen, leading to more damage and faster deterioration of the pavement.

Lastly, lack of maintenance will shorten the lifespan of an asphalt driveway. It is important to sealcoat your driveway every few years to protect it from the elements. Without seal coating, water can penetrate the pavement and cause it to deteriorate from the inside out.

Extend the Lifespan of Your Asphalt Driveways

Now that you know some factors that can shorten the life expectancy of an asphalt driveway, let’s talk about how you can extend its life.

The first thing you can do is choose a high-quality asphalt mix. It will ensure that your driveway is durable and long-lasting.

The second thing you can do is ensure that the asphalt is properly compacted. It will prevent cracking and potholes from forming.

Third, you’ll want to sealcoat your driveway every few years. It will serve as a barrier to water damage and the elements.

Fourth, repair any cracks or potholes as soon as they form. These issues will only worsen with time and can lead to further damage if ignored.

Finally, it would help if you avoid parking in the same spot all the time. It can cause the pavement to deteriorate more quickly in that spot.

Following these tips can help extend your asphalt driveway’s life.

In order to maximize your investment, it’s important to perform regular maintenance on your driveway. Proper maintenance lengthens the lifespan of an asphalt driveway and should last 20 to 30 years. But if you neglect it, it could show signs of wear in as little as five years. By taking good care of your driveway, you can extend its lifespan and keep it looking new for many years.

Working With The Asphalt Paving Experts 

Bluff City Paving is a family-owned asphalt paving company servicing Memphis, TN. We have over 25 years of experience in the business and offer a wide range of services to our clients, including new construction, sealcoating, and more. No job is too big or too small for our team, and we take pride in providing quality workmanship at competitive prices.

We understand the importance of a smooth, safe, and long-lasting parking lot or driveway and are devoted to helping our clients achieve that goal. 

Hiring a professional paving contractor is important if you consider installing an asphalt driveway. Bluff City Paving in Memphis, TN, has the experience and expertise for asphalt paving installation to ensure that the new asphalt driveway will survive for many years. We offer a free estimate, so don’t hesitate to contact us today to discuss your needs. We will provide you with advice on how to maintain your driveway properly.