What to Do if Your Driveway is Falling Apart

Your driveway serves as the main entry point to your home. It’s what you first see when you return after a long day, and it often makes an impression on visitors or passersby. But what if, over time, you notice your driveway deteriorating? Cracks and crumbling can lead to a slew of problems if not addressed promptly. The question then is, why is this happening, and most importantly, what can be done? If you've ever thought, "My driveway is falling apart, what needs to be done?", then this article is for you.

The Root of the Problem

Often, if a driveway starts to crumble or deteriorate severely, it can be traced back to a couple of fundamental issues:

1. Water damage: One of the primary culprits for a failing driveway is water intrusion. When water finds its way beneath your driveway, it can compromise the base. This means that over time, the foundational support of your driveway is weakened, leading to cracks and ultimately causing parts of it to break away.
2. Faulty Installation: If your driveway began showing signs of wear and tear soon after installation, it might be a case of shoddy workmanship. Sadly, not every paving contractor provides quality work. Improper base preparation, insufficient pavement thickness or the use of subpar materials can set your driveway up for failure from the get-go.

Beware of Fly-by-night Contractors

The unfortunate truth is that the asphalt industry has seen its fair share of unscrupulous operators. These are the "traveling companies", often referred to as gypsies or fly-by-nighters, that hop from state to state, looking to make a quick buck. These outfits often adopt names that sound local, like "Utah Paving" or "State Paving," where they simply swap out the state’s name depending on their current location. Their most common sales pitch is typically along the lines of, "We have some leftover material, and we'd rather offer it to you than waste it." While some might occasionally do passable work, the majority of the time, the customer is left in the lurch. Why? Because these contractors are notorious for laying asphalt that's too thin. As a result, it breaks up much faster than it should. While there's an option to overlay thin asphalt to thicken it, in most scenarios, the only solution is to remove and replace the entire thing – a procedure far more costly than a proper initial installation. At Top Job, we believe in the value of doing things right the first time. Not only does it ensure the longevity and quality of the work, but it also saves homeowners from headaches and additional costs down the line.

What's the Solution?

1. Assessment: First and foremost, get a professional to assess your driveway. They can determine the extent of the damage and advise on the best course of action.
2. Repairs or Replacement: Depending on the assessment, you might need patchwork repairs or a full replacement. If it's the latter, it's crucial to ensure the new driveway has a proper base and uses high-quality asphalt.
3. Regular Maintenance: Like all things, driveways last longer with regular care. This includes routine sealing to keep out water, fixing small cracks before they become larger issues, and avoiding excessive weight or strain on the surface.
4. Choose Reputable Contractors: Always research and choose contractors with a solid reputation, like Top Job. Look for reviews, references, and ensure they have a permanent local presence.

In conclusion, while a deteriorating driveway can be a cause for concern, understanding the root issues and knowing the steps to rectify them can save you time, money, and stress. Always prioritize quality workmanship and regular maintenance to enjoy a driveway that's not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.