FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between seal coating and resurfacing of an asphalt driveway?
Sealcoating is a protective, paint-like substance while resurfacing is installing a new layer of asphalt (usually 1”-2.5”) atop of the existing driveway.
Tree roots have caused my concrete, asphalt, brick paver driveway, or patio to crack. If the roots are cut, will the tree be hurt?
We cut roots on a daily basis, and have yet to hurt or kill a tree. However, there is no guarantee on this.
Is it necessary to excavate my entire driveway in preparation for repaving, or can a new layer be added?
Most asphalt driveways can be resurfaced (new layer), but if the existing driveway is very unleveled, cracked, or is a concrete driveway… then complete excavation is required.
Will my asphalt driveway last longer if we excavate the entire driveway before repaving?
Not necessarily… most driveways last longer if the existing asphalt driveway can be utilized as a base.
Do I have to seal coat my asphalt driveway every year?
We recommended a seal coat with cold tar emulsion every 2-5 years.
If I resurface my asphalt driveway (add a layer), will it be too high at the garage and roadways?
Joints at the garage and roadways are excavated to avoid trip hazards. The excavation also aids in maintaining positive water drainage away from the garage.
If I resurface my asphalt driveway (add a layer), will it be too high along the grass line?
Usually, the new layer of asphalt will add 2” of height to the driveway along the grass line. A 45 deg beveled edge will be installed. It is recommended that dirt is used to backfill the edges for stabilization.
How long before I can use my asphalt, concrete, or block driveway after it is installed?
Usually, the driveway can be used in 24-72 hours unless rare circumstances occur.
How long does it take my asphalt driveway to cure?
Asphalt driveways require up to 2 years to fully cure, during which time care must be taken during hot temperatures as not to mark the surface.
I have a side entrance garage or a circular asphalt driveway… will my tires mark the new asphalt?
Yes, especially during hot temperatures over the curing period (2 years). Fortunately, tire marks are temporary. Scuff marks come with the territory of freshly paved asphalt. As the pavement ages, the asphalt will steadily harden and become more resistant to scuffing. Tire scuffing most often appears on new pavement because it is soft and flexible. While this may seem appealing, asphalt needs flexibility for maximum durability. Most scuffing will minimize or disappear within two to three months of a new sealcoat.
Why is my new asphalt driveway black, while my neighbor’s asphalt driveway is gray?
Asphalt gets its black color from the adhesive, asphaltic tar used in the manufacturing process. As the tar degrades, the surface of the driveway will revert to the natural color of the stone in the mix, which is usually gray.
Why is the surface of my new asphalt driveway not completely uniform in texture?
Asphalt is made up of sand, rock, and tar. When tar, or sand clump together, a smooth area is produced on the surface. When rock gathers, a rough area is produced on the surface. As a countertop, asphalt is a natural stone product, subject to the same limitations, and inconsistencies.
My asphalt or concrete driveway has some broken areas or potholes. Should I repair these areas, or wait to redo the entire driveway?
It depends on how long you plan to keep the property, and how much is in your budget. Just be mindful that if left in disrepair over a bad winter, a small, relatively cheap fix can become a very expensive project in a short time.
My asphalt has a pothole, and needs a patch… will it blend in?
No… but asphalt is the best medium for this because it can be seal coated to maintain a uniform color between the patch/repair, and the existing surface, but the texture will always be different.