How Water Can Destroy Your Asphalt (and How to Stop It)
As it turns out, water isn’t great for everything—especially your asphalt driveway. While water is essential for life, it’s one of the biggest threats to the health and longevity of your asphalt surface. Without proper protection and maintenance, moisture can lead to costly damage that shortens your driveway’s lifespan and affects your property’s curb appeal.
How Water Damages Asphalt
When water seeps into the pores and small cracks of asphalt, trouble begins. Over time, even the smallest openings allow moisture to penetrate the surface and reach the base layer beneath. Once this happens, three major issues can develop:
Erosion: As water flows underneath the asphalt, it begins to erode the base material that supports the pavement. This weakens the structure, creating soft spots that can lead to sagging, uneven surfaces, and eventual collapse.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles: In Connecticut and other cold-weather regions, this problem is amplified. When temperatures drop, the trapped water freezes and expands, widening any existing cracks. When it thaws, new gaps form—allowing even more water in. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles create a continuous cycle of deterioration that can quickly turn minor cracks into major damage.
Pothole Formation: Once the base layer weakens and cracks expand, it’s only a matter of time before potholes form. These not only make your driveway unsightly and unsafe but also allow even more water to collect, accelerating the damage.
Preventative Measures
The good news is that water-related asphalt damage can be prevented with regular maintenance and proactive care. Here are a few key steps to protect your driveway:
Sealcoating every 2–3 years: A fresh coat of sealant acts as a waterproof barrier, preventing water, oil, and UV rays from breaking down the asphalt surface.
Proper drainage installation: Make sure water flows away from your driveway, not toward it. Gutters, downspouts, and grading adjustments can make a huge difference.
Crack filling: Small cracks should be filled and sealed promptly to keep water from seeping in and causing larger structural issues.
What Should You Do?
Protect your driveway before the damage starts. Schedule a free inspection with our team today to identify problem areas and develop a maintenance plan that fits your needs. With a little prevention now, you can save thousands in repairs later and keep your driveway looking its best for years to come.
