Alright, let us talk about your Asphalt Driveway. Here in Cleveland, OH, we know Mother Nature does not mess around. One day it is 80 degrees and sunny, the next it is a lake-effect snowstorm, and then it is thawing out just enough to freeze again overnight. That kind of wild swing is very brutal on Pavement, and if you are not keeping an eye on things, your Driveway can go from looking sharp to looking like a Pothole minefield faster than you would think. All Star Asphalt Inc. understands these challenges in Cleveland, OH.
Why Cleveland's Climate is Tough on Asphalt
You have probably heard us talk about the Freeze-Thaw Cycle, and for good reason. It is the number one enemy of Asphalt in Northeast Ohio. Here is how it works: water seeps into tiny cracks in your Driveway. When the temperature drops below freezing, that water turns to ice and expands. That expansion pushes against the Asphalt, making those small cracks bigger. Then, when it thaws, the water melts, leaving a slightly larger void. This repeats over and over again all winter long, especially near Lake Erie where those temperature shifts are constant. This process can cause Pavement Deterioration to happen 280% faster here in Cleveland, OH, than in more moderate climates.
Beyond the Freeze-Thaw, All Star Asphalt Inc. knows we have other challenges in Cleveland, OH:
- Road Salt: Road Salt is a necessary evil for our icy roads in Cleveland. However, it can accelerate Deterioration if it gets into your Asphalt Pavement.
- Temperature Extremes: From sub-zero winters to hot, humid summers, your Driveway has to handle a very huge range. These shifts cause Asphalt to expand and contract, leading to Stress Cracks.
- Heavy Precipitation: All that rain and snowmelt needs to go somewhere. Poor Drainage means water sits on your Driveway, leading to more problems for homeowners in Cleveland, OH.
Extending Your Driveway's Life: Regular Maintenance is Key
A well-installed Asphalt Driveway should last you 25 to 30 years with proper care in Cleveland, OH. Without proper care, you are looking at half that lifespan. So, what can you do? All Star Asphalt Inc. recommends regular maintenance for your Asphalt Driveway.
- Sealcoating: This is your first line of defense for your Asphalt Driveway. Sealcoating is a protective layer that shields your Asphalt from UV rays, water, and chemicals. For Residential Driveways in Cleveland, OH, you should be Sealcoating every 2 to 3 years. For new Asphalt, wait about 6 to 12 months after installation for it to cure before that first Sealcoat application. The best time to do Sealcoating in Ohio is typically late spring through early fall, which is from May to September. This is when temperatures are consistently above 50°F and it is dry.
- Crack Filling: Do not ignore those small cracks in your Asphalt Driveway! Even Hairline Cracks let water in, which leads to bigger problems thanks to our Freeze-Thaw Cycles in Cleveland, OH. Fill them promptly, especially before winter. A good Crack Filling job can prevent 75% of untreated cracks from turning into Potholes. All Star Asphalt Inc. provides professional Crack Filling services.
- Keep it Clean: Sweep off debris, dirt, and leaves regularly from your Asphalt Driveway. This prevents organic matter from breaking down on your Asphalt and keeps Drainage clear.
- Watch for Spills: Oil, gas, and other automotive fluids can break down Asphalt. Clean up spills quickly to protect your Pavement.
Warning Signs of Trouble
Your Driveway will usually tell you when it is hurting. Here is what to look for on your Asphalt Pavement in Cleveland, OH:
- Cracks: Small cracks are normal. However, if you see them getting wider than a quarter-inch, longer than a foot, or forming a spiderweb pattern, this is a problem. We call that Alligator Cracking. Alligator Cracking means the base is failing.