Your driveway is something you probably use every day without giving it much thought—until something looks off. Maybe you’ve spotted a few new cracks, or you’ve started to feel bumps under your tires where the surface used to be smooth. While a couple of hairline cracks aren’t cause for panic, they can quickly evolve into bigger issues if you ignore them too long. And by the time you’re dealing with potholes or drainage problems, you’re not just patching anymore—you’re repaving.
The thing is, asphalt doesn’t last forever. Even with good maintenance, the average residential asphalt driveway lasts around 15 to 20 years. That lifespan can shrink depending on weather, water drainage, how often it’s sealed, and how much traffic it handles. Over time, UV rays, oil stains, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles start to wear it down. And while sealcoating and minor repairs can buy you some time, there’s a point when those quick fixes stop being worth the money. If you’re constantly patching the same areas or dealing with major surface crumbling, repaving may be your smarter (and more cost-effective) option.
Signs It’s Time to Repave—Not Just Repair
So how do you know if your driveway’s crossed the line from fixable to full-on redo? There are a few red flags that should have you thinking beyond band-aid repairs.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Widespread cracks forming a pattern known as “alligator cracking”
- Deep potholes or uneven areas that cause pooling water
- Crumbling edges or large surface chunks breaking away
- Drainage problems, especially after rain or snow
- Frequent, recurring repairs that don’t seem to last
If two or more of these sound familiar, it’s a good bet your driveway’s base layer may be compromised. And once that happens, patching the surface won’t solve the core issue—it’ll just delay the inevitable.
Why Repaving Can Actually Save You Money
We get it—repaving sounds expensive. But when you tally up the cost of patch after patch, not to mention the wear on your vehicle’s tires and suspension, repaving starts to make financial sense. A freshly repaved driveway not only looks better, but also adds value to your home, improves curb appeal, and increases safety—especially if you have kids running around or guests visiting regularly.
There’s also a performance boost. A new asphalt surface ensures proper water runoff, reduces risk of damage during freeze-thaw cycles, and gives you a clean slate for long-term sealcoating and maintenance. And with today’s materials and techniques, a well-installed driveway will serve you well for another two decades or more—especially when paired with occasional sealcoating.
If you think your driveway’s due for more than a quick patch-up, check out our full Asphalt Driveway services. Need a broader overhaul? Explore our Asphalt Paving and Asphalt Repair options to see what fits your project. Not sure where to start? Our Contact Page makes it easy to schedule a free estimate with one of our local pros.