Those small cracks and depressions in your asphalt driveway can cause a whole lot of destruction. They provide places for water to work its way into and under the pavement; when that water freezes in the winter, it will expand – cracking apart the asphalt and even heaving up whole sections of the driveway, like icebergs. In most cases, the solution to this problem is fairly easy. A few hours of maintenance each fall will help avoid such destruction and extend the life of any asphalt drive.

Asphalt is basically made up of coal tars and fine gravel. When a driveway is installed, this compound is heated, spread out evenly, and compressed in place. After it cools, it becomes hard enough to retain its shape under the weight of your car. However, over the seasons, as the sun and the elements cook out the oils in the coal tar, the gravel is no longer held so tightly together. Cracks develop, and then (Read more….)