Everett weather is not kind to Asphalt. Between the constant dampness rolling off Puget Sound and those freeze-thaw cycles we get during winter, Driveways take a real beating around here. Over the years running Valley Asphalt Solutions, our team has heard just about every question a homeowner can ask when staring down a crumbling Driveway in Everett, WA.
Valley Asphalt Solutions wants to get straight into the answers you need for your Asphalt Driveway.
How long should an asphalt driveway last in Everett?
Under normal conditions with decent upkeep, an Asphalt Driveway will last 20 to 25 years or more. But normal around here means dealing with saturated soil in neighborhoods like Silver Lake or Pinehurst. If you skip Asphalt Sealcoating and ignore drainage issues, you will be replacing the Asphalt Driveway in half that time. Water is the worst enemy of Asphalt.
Why is my driveway cracking after only a couple of years?
Usually, it boils down to either a weak sub-base or water getting trapped underneath the Asphalt. If the gravel foundation was not compacted properly when the Asphalt Paving was installed, the weight of your vehicles will cause the surface to shift and split. Tree roots and poor grading also play a huge role in local residential wear and tear across Everett.
Can I fix those winter cracks myself with a bucket from the hardware store?
You can, but temper your expectations. Those cold-pour liquid crack fillers are mostly temporary band-aids. They shrink as they dry and usually fail after one good winter of freezing rain. If you have cracks wider than a quarter-inch, you need a hot-pour rubberized sealant or proper Asphalt Patching to keep water from reaching the base of your Asphalt Driveway.
When is patching no longer enough and replacement required?
If more than 30 percent of your Driveway has alligator cracking—that web-like pattern that looks like a turtle shell—Asphalt Patching is just wasting money. At that point, the base has failed completely. You are driving on mud wrapped in a thin crust of Asphalt. Valley Asphalt Solutions tells homeowners to rip it out and start fresh with new Asphalt Installation.
How long do I have to stay off the new patch or sealcoat?
For standard cold or hot-mix patches, give the Asphalt Patching at least 24 hours before driving heavy vehicles over it. Walking on the surface is fine after a few hours. If we are talking about a fresh Asphalt Sealcoating job, keep cars off the Asphalt Driveway for a full 48 hours. You do not want black tire tracks all over your concrete walkway because you parked too soon.
Why does my asphalt look faded and gray instead of black?
That process is oxidation. Ultraviolet rays from the sun bake the natural oils right out of the liquid Asphalt binder, leaving behind brittle aggregate. Even on overcast days in Snohomish County, UV damage happens over time. Applying a fresh Asphalt Sealcoating every three to five years locks those oils back in and stops the surface of the Asphalt Driveway from raveling apart.
For homes and businesses in Everett, Valley Asphalt Solutions provides Asphalt Contractor services.