If you’ve recently installed a new asphalt driveway, you may be wondering why there’s water pooling on the surface. This can be concerning, especially if you’re worried about potential damage to your driveway or the safety of your family and visitors. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of water on new asphalt driveways and offer some solutions to help you address the issue.
Causes of Water on New Asphalt Driveways
Water accumulation on new asphalt driveways can be a cause of concern for homeowners. There are several reasons why this issue may occur, including poor drainage, rainfall, improper curing, and frost heave. Understanding these causes can help you take the necessary steps to address the water damage issue and protect your driveway.
Poor Drainage
Poor drainage is one of the most common reasons for water on new asphalt driveways. If your driveway is not properly graded, water can pool on the surface instead of flowing toward the edges and into the surrounding landscaping. This can be caused by improper installation or settling of the soil beneath the driveway.
Rainfall
Another common cause of water on new asphalt driveways is rainfall. Heavy rains can quickly overwhelm even the best-designed drainage systems, causing water to accumulate on the surface of the driveway.
Improper Curing
Asphalt driveways need time to cure after installation. If the curing process is interrupted by rain or other moisture, it can pool water on the driveway’s surface. This can also occur if the asphalt mix is too wet when installed.
Frost Heave
Frost heave occurs when moisture in the ground freezes and expands, causing the soil to shift. This can result in cracking and heaving of the asphalt surface, leading to water accumulation.
Solutions for Water on New Asphalt Driveways
Water pooling on new asphalt driveways can be a frustrating issue for homeowners. Fortunately, there are several solutions that can help address the problem. By understanding these solutions, homeowners can take steps to protect their driveway and prevent further damage from water accumulation.
Improve Drainage
The first step in addressing water on new asphalt driveways is to improve drainage. This may involve re-grading the driveway to ensure that water flows away from the center of the driveway and towards the edges. You may also need to install additional drainage features, such as French drains or ditches.
Sealcoat the Driveway
Sealcoating the driveway can help to prevent water from penetrating the surface and causing damage. This process involves applying a protective coating to the surface of the driveway that helps to keep out moisture and other contaminants.
Resurface the Driveway
If your new asphalt driveway is experiencing severe water accumulation, you may need to consider resurfacing the driveway. This involves removing the existing surface layer of asphalt and replacing it with a new, properly graded, and installed layer.
Install a Permeable Driveway
If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or poor soil drainage, you may want to consider installing a permeable driveway. These driveways are designed to allow water to penetrate the surface and drain into the ground below, reducing the risk of water accumulation and damage.
Contact Bluff City Paving for Professional Paving Services
If you’re experiencing water damage on your new asphalt driveway, it’s important to address the issue quickly to prevent further damage. At Bluff City Paving, we offer professional paving services that can help you improve drainage and address any other issues with your driveway. Our experienced professionals can assess your situation and recommend the best action to protect your driveway and home. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your next project!