Asphalt, or blacktop, is a popular and durable choice for any driveway. It will last for years with proper maintenance, and has excellent curb appeal. Asphalt is good for Long Island, since it can expand and contract during the winter without cracking.
Over time, your driveway may lose its luster and begin to crack. Although blacktop is super resistant to rain, snow, and temperature changes, there will be a time when you want to repave and restore it.
When to Pave Your Asphalt Driveway
If you really want your repaved driveway to last, however, repaving should be done at the right time of year, and under the right conditions. An experienced driveway paving company will be able to assess your driveway, and the time of year, in order to provide quality driveway services.
The Best Temperature for Repaving a Driveway
Ideally, the temperature should be around 70 degrees when repaving a driveway. For us here on Long Island, that’s a very versatile temperature, and occurs several times a year. Late spring, early summer, and early fall can bring you the perfect temperatures for laying new blacktop.
So, why is 70 degrees the best temperature? It’s simple! Hot asphalt mix needs to be in a liquid state so that it’s easily mixed and poured. As it cools, it will harden evenly.
If the temperature is too hot, it will take longer to cool and harden. During winter, the cold weather makes the mixture harden too fast, which makes it difficult to spread and leads to uneven surfaces. Additionally, when the ground is frozen it is less likely to bind to the new driveway mix.
The Best Weather for Repaving a Driveway
While temperature is important, there are other factors that will affect the lifespan of your driveway. Dry days are optimal for laying asphalt. A light rain may not make much difference, but too much water can damage the base layers. Also, rain water can make the asphalt cool too fast or inconsistently. This can lead to uneven spreading and hardening.
The Benefits of Choosing Asphalt
When considering a new driveway, cost is probably the most influential part of your decision. But besides cost, other factors such as maintenance, visual appeal, climate, durability and longevity also weigh in.
New asphalt installation is an option that offers many benefits to homeowners. It’s less expensive to install than concrete or brick pavers and can last for many years, especially when maintained with annual seal-coating. In addition, new asphalt / blacktop provides curb appeal and real estate value to your property.
If your budget doesn’t allow for a brand new driveway installation, seal-coating is another option to improve your existing driveway and extend its longevity.
Add Brick Paver Accents!
Brick pavers can also be added as a beautiful accent to asphalt driveways along the edges and foot of the driveway (also known as the apron).
Not only is it attractive, but it’s also functional. Pavers allow you extra space when maneuvering out of your car with groceries or children, so that you don’t have to walk in the grass or mud.