A Comprehensive Maintenance Checklist for Your Asphalt Driveway

Did you know that an asphalt driveway can last upwards of 25 years with proper upkeep? A poorly-maintained driveway, on the other hand, may not even last ten years. Since repaving projects aren't cheap, it is important to take good care of your driveway in order to maximize your investment.

Follow this maintenance checklist from the experts at Roccie's Asphalt to keep your driveway in tip-top shape for years to come:

• Sweep away leaves and debris every week. Leaves, grass clippings, and other debris can cause uneven fading. Sweep them away with a push broom and wash down your driveway with a garden hose to clear off stubborn debris.
   
• Clean up all oil and gas spills immediately. Oil and gas spills can break down the binding agent in your driveway, causing premature deterioration. Clean up all spills immediately using a stiff-bristled brush and a solution of warm water and dish soap.
  
  
• Keep an eye out for drainage problems. Believe it or not, water is one of asphalt's biggest enemies. If you notice puddling in your driveway after each rainfall, contact a paving contractor to discuss drainage solutions.

• Patch cracks and potholes as they form. A small crack or pothole in your driveway can quickly turn into a big problem if it is not fixed. It's much easier (and cheaper) to fill a small crack than paying to get your driveway professionally resurfaced. 
   
• Apply a fresh sealcoat every 3-5 years. Sealcoating adds an extra layer of defense to your driveway, helping to protect it against water, gas spills, and ultraviolet rays. For best results, sealcoat your driveway every 3-5 years.

If you live in Fairfield County CT or Westchester County NY, trust the experts at Roccie's Asphalt to help you maintain a pristine driveway. Call us for all of your asphalt paving, repair, sealcoating, and maintenance needs at 888-88-ROCCIES.

How to Prepare Your Driveway for the Fall

Today is September 22^nd, also known as the first day of autumn. While the fall is a relaxing season for many of us, it can be very damaging to our asphalt driveways. Follow these tips from Roccie's Asphalt to make sure your driveway is ready for the change of seasons.

Get Your Gutter System in Check.

A poorly-functioning gutter system can cause all kinds of damage to your driveway. Keep your gutters in tip-top shape by cleaning them once leaves begin to fall from your trees. You should also make sure that your downspout does not dump water onto your driveway – use an extender if necessary.

Seal Any Cracks – No Matter How Small.

That small crack on your driveway can turn into a very big crack by the time spring rolls around. This is because water can enter the crack and freeze when the temperature drops, causing it to expand and create pressure on your asphalt. This freeze-thaw cycle can happen several times during the fall and winter seasons, which is why many potholes appear during the spring months.

Clean Your Driveway Regularly.

Use a push broom or leaf blower to keep your driveway clear of fallen leaves. If left to sit on your driveway for an extended period of time, these leaves can cause uneven fading.

Apply a Fresh Sealcoat.

A sealcoat adds an extra layer of defense to your driveway; helping to protect it from water, oil spills, and UV rays. The fall is the perfect time to sealcoat your driveway because it can defend your asphalt from the continuous freeze-thaw cycles.

Need help making sure your driveway is prepared for the cold season? Look no further than Roccie's Asphalt! Our paving experts have more than 50 years of experience installing, repairing, and sealcoating asphalt driveways. If you live in Fairfield County CT or Westchester County NY, give us a call at 888-88-ROCCIES.

Common Driveway Drainage Problems and Solutions

Did you know that water is one of asphalt's biggest enemies? While it may be a refreshing drink for us, water left standing on your driveway can cause cracks, potholes, and premature deterioration. If you notice puddles and pools forming after every rainstorm, this indicates a serious drainage issue.

Here are three common reasons for driveway drainage problems, and a few things you can do to correct them.

Improper Driveway Slope

The most effective weapon in combating driveway drainage problems is a healthy slope. Ideally, your driveway should be sloped slightly away from your home so that rainwater washes into the street or another designated drainage area. If your driveway isn't properly sloped, it may need to be graded by a professional contractor.

Poor Downspout Placement

Gutters play an important role for the home: protecting it from water damage. The sole purpose of the gutter system is to direct rain water away from your home and foundation. Unfortunately, many downspouts are emptied directly onto driveways, where the water can have an equally devastating effect. Use a downspout extender to keep water as far away from your home (and driveway) as possible.

Surface Damage

If your driveway is covered in cracks and potholes, it provides crevices for water to collect in. It also creates an easier path for water to infiltrate the foundation of your driveway, where it can begin to deteriorate the base. The best way to fix this problem is to patch all of your cracks as soon as they form, and sealcoat your driveway every few years.

In addition to these solutions, supplemental drainage components – such as trench drains – may need to be installed. If you live in Connecticut and suffer from any of these driveway drainage problems, give the paving experts at Roccie's Asphalt a call at 888-88-ROCCIES.