Over time, temperature extremes prove to be very destructive to driveways. Asphalt and concrete drives generally require replacement within two or three decades of construction. Of course, driveways encounter everyday wear and tear. But, extreme temperatures punish driving surfaces too. Several factors determine the lifespan of a driving surface. Critically, constructing drives on well-prepared bases of durable materials lengthens the life. Inevitably, wear and extreme temperatures damage driveways.
The Deterioration of Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt drives tend to need replacing after about twenty years or so. Asphalt drives absorb a great deal of heat in summer. Also, they endure the coldest temperatures of winter. As a result, asphalt drives go through daily and yearly cycles of heat expansion and subsequent contraction through cooling. Over time, this result is a heavily fractured, crumbling surface. Extreme temperatures damage driveways and asphalt drives are no exception.
The Deterioration of Concrete Driveways
Poured concrete drives tend to have longer lives than their asphalt counterparts. Generally, you should replace your concrete drive about every 25 to 30 years. These drives are sometimes sealed every 3 to 4 years to slow deterioration. Temperature extremes effect concrete similarly to other surfaces. Concrete that does not have proper pressure release joints may crack in extreme temperatures due to expansion. Also, concrete is particularly vulnerable to extreme cold due to frost wedging.
Extremely cold temperatures can severely damage a concrete driveway. Water seeps into imperfections in the concrete. Then, the water expands when it freezes. This has the effect of driving a wedge into the concrete. As a result, cracks form and chips of concrete are wedged loose. When saturated or infiltrated with water, concrete is seriously affected by freezing temperatures.
Extreme temperatures damage driveways but so do other things. In winter, it’s common to apply salt and sand to drives for traction and de-icing. Harsh de-icing chemicals can be damaging.
Alternative Paving Materials
If you have a damaged drive, you are probably considering a replacement. At Real Okie Outdoor Living, we pour concrete driveways and more. Consider these alternative paving materials.
- Stamped Concrete
- Interlocking Pavers
- Gravel
- Brick
- Cobblestone
If you are looking to replace your driveway, contact Real Okie Concrete today.