Paving is a major investment that can transform your property in many ways, such as improving safety and functionality. While upfront paving costs can be substantial, it’s an investment that pays off handsomely. There are several options when installing pavement, but asphalt paving is one of the most popular. It’s a versatile material that’s resilient enough to last.
But just how long can you expect asphalt paving in Long Island to hold up?
What’s the Average Lifespan for Different Applications of Asphalt Paving?
There’s no way to guarantee that your pavement will last a specific number of years. However, when done right by an experienced asphalt paving company, you can expect several decades of reliability. Many factors will impact asphalt’s lifespan; one of the biggest is its application.
Generally, Long Island asphalt paving used in residential driveways is the most long-lasting. With regular care, asphalt driveways typically hold up for 20 to 25 years. Driveways will often continue to look great and be strong for 30 or more!
In commercial applications, asphalt paving in Long Island experiences significantly more wear. Your asphalt paving company will take steps during the preparation and engineering phase to ensure the finished product can withstand constant use. But even still, the lifespan of asphalt paving on parking lots and loading docks is slightly less at 15 to 25 years. While commercial property owners will likely need new pavement sooner, 25 years is still impressive!
Asphalt companies can also pave residential streets, highways, airport landing strips and other heavy-duty applications. The material used in those applications often differs from what’s in residential and commercial properties. Because they experience extreme wear, asphalt paving usually lasts between 10 and 20 years.
What Factors Will Impact the Longevity of Asphalt Paving?
Contrary to popular belief, the material that asphalt paving companies lay down isn’t indestructible. It can experience damage like any other construction material, even when laid by seasoned asphalt companies that know what they’re doing.
Asphalt is tough, but weather and regular wear still take a toll. The level of wear on pavement can majorly impact its resilience. For example, residential driveways that only experience light traffic tend to last longer than huge loading docks that asphalt companies construct for heavy-duty freight trucks!
Another factor to consider is the amount of exposure paving has to the elements. UV rays from the sun can cause the blacktop material to oxidize. Oxidation breaks down binders, causing the material to become brittle and crack. Once cracks form, water can seep in and cause significant damage. That’s when alligator cracks, potholes and other major issues arise.
How Can I Ensure My Asphalt Lasts as Long as Possible?
Long Island asphalt paving is a tough material, but it still requires attention for maximum durability. Fortunately, there are many things asphalt paving companies can do to help prolong your asphalt pavement’s life.
Maintenance is key! Consider hiring contractors to inspect your paving regularly. They can spot early issues and perform repairs like surface patches or crackfilling whenever necessary.
It’s also important to get regular sealcoating. Sealcoating protects your pavement from UV damage, water penetration, chemical spills and more. It keeps the material pliable while preventing brittleness. Regular maintenance makes a huge difference, helping you avoid costly repairs, premature deterioration and early reclamation or reconstruction.
Ready to get paving that lasts? Turn to Empire Industries! We’re a trusted asphalt paving company that serves property owners in and around Long Island, New York. We know asphalt paving and pride ourselves on delivering impeccable results you’ll be proud to show off.
But that’s not all. We’re also here to help you keep your paving in good shape over the long haul. You can turn to Empire Industries for fresh paving, asphalt repairs, crackfilling, sealcoating and more. For our commercial clients, we also do parking lot maintenance and striping.
Let us show you why Empire Industries is the best in Long Island! Call us today at (631)566-0058 for a free paving project quote. If you prefer, you can also submit our contact form or shoot us an email at Empireindustries1@aol.com.
