An attractive paved driveway adds to a home’s curb appeal and resale value. It is easy to walk on and easy to plow during snow storms. Homeowners should understand that a driveway is constructed in the same manner as a small road. Therefore it’s important to use an experienced driveway paving company. First the area to be paved has to be excavated to the proper depth. This ensures that the driveway will be even with the yard and garage entrance. Gravel is laid in the excavated area to ensure proper drainage. Then a coarse basecoat is applied. The contractors make sure that it is even. After it has dried they apply one to two coats of high-quality asphalt.
The Driveway Paving in Norwich, CT company will educate the homeowner about the importance of annual maintenance. Taking proper care of the driveway will double the life of the asphalt. If a homeowner starts to notice that the driveway is turning white or gray they should contact the company immediately to come apply a sealant to it. The light area signals that the asphalt is oxidizing. When this happens the pavement becomes very brittle and dry. If the sealant isn’t applied in time, it can start to break up. A sealant replenishes the asphalt and creates a water barrier.
The homeowner also has to be aware of cracks that appear. They may think that they can go to the hardware store and buy some cold asphalt crack filler. However this type of filler doesn’t work will in freezing temperatures. It’s best to contact a company such as the Driveway Guys and have them apply a hot rubberized crack filler. This will withstand sub-zero temperatures without failing. If a crack isn’t filled immediately water will seep into the lower layers of the pavement. When it freezes it will expand and could cost frost heaves.
Hiring a driveway paving contractor to inspect the driveway each year will prevent many of these problems. They’ll determine the proper time to apply a sealant to prevent any oxidation. They notice small pavement cracks and fill them before they allow any water seepage.
