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5 Reasons to Replace Your Aging Gravel Driveway With Asphalt

A freshly laid gravel driveway can be an attractive addition to any household. Unfortunately, these good looks rarely last. After years of use, a gravel drive will inevitably become ragged, potholed, and overgrown with weeds. It'll either need to be re-laid or replaced with new materials.

If you have an aging gravel driveway, consider choosing a replacement driveway made from asphalt. Asphalt driveways have numerous practical advantages over gravel driveways, and a well-laid asphalt driveway created by a reputable residential paving service can be as attractive as the most elegant gravel driveway.

Read on to learn about some advantages of replacing gravel driveways with asphalt.

1. It's Durable

When it comes to long-term durability, asphalt driveways leave their gravel counterparts in the shade. If an asphalt driveway is carefully installed, and the climate in your area is not too extreme, you can expect your driveway to last for several decades before it needs significant repairs or replacement. They also lack the fragile, fabric underlayment layers used by gravel driveways, which can easily become torn and unsightly.

2. It's Low Maintenance

Gravel driveways can also last for a long time, but only if they are regularly maintained, protected from weeds and high wings, and have their gravel top layers replaced regularly. By contrast, asphalt driveways require almost no maintenance.

They should be pressure-washed once or twice a year to remove dirt, and their sealed coatings will need to be renewed every five years or so. These maintenance measures are quick and inexpensive, and will keep your asphalt driveway looking fabulous for years to come.

3. It Has Load-Bearing Strength

Gravel driveways are prone to developing potholes when heavy vehicles drive over them, particularly if the soil or aggregate beneath their surfaces is unstable. Repeated use can also create tire ruts, which are unsightly and can cause damage to the fabric underlayment.

Asphalt driveways have a lot more load-bearing strength than gravel driveways, and can withstand decades of use without showing any serious surface damage. They are particularly useful if you drive a heavy vehicle or you live in a multi-car household. 

4. It's Weather Resistance 

Gravel driveways are notoriously vulnerable to strong winds, which can leave loose gravel scattered all over your property if the driveway isn't properly edged. They are also difficult to plow after heavy snowfalls, and can be seriously damaged by plows and snow shovels. Asphalt driveways are immune to high winds, and can be cleared of snow safely, even if you use heavy commercial plowing equipment.

5. It's Economical

Despite all of these useful advantages, asphalt driveways cost significantly less to install than gravel driveways. When you consider their superior longevity and lower maintenance costs, an asphalt driveway represents an excellent long-term investment to replace your aging gravel driveway.

To learn more and compare your options, contact companies like Virginia Asphalt Services Inc.