Driveways and pavements are very important for homeowners and commercial property owners. Not only are driveways responsible for the curb appeal of your property, but they also provide access to the property for customers, owners, and people of interest as well. High-quality paving installations are made to last more than two decades. But they need proper maintenance to last that long.
When done right, asphalt driveways improve the curb appeal of any property. Also, these make accessing the property for vehicles and pedestrians much more efficient as well. Additionally, driveway installation is a multi-stage process. Property owners should provide the time and steps required to do the job properly. Here are some efficient ways to save money with asphalt driveways:
Improve the Asphalt Drainage to Save Money in The Long Term
One of the biggest causes of asphalt pavement damage is standing water. After a heavy rain, water tends to stay on the surface. This is usually because the drainage systems and water escape ways get clogged or blocked by falling leaves, debris, or any other foreign materials.
So, make sure your driveway drainage is working correctly. It should be installed properly during the installation process. Also, make sure it is always unclogged letting the water run off correctly. Pay regular visits to make sure it is in the right condition.
Especially during the fall season, a lot of dry leaves might end up on the driveway. They will make their way onto the water runoff openings after a rain pour. So, ideally, you should check after every rainfall.
Porous Asphalt Driveways Are Cheaper to Install and Maintain
Another way to save money and make your driveways last a long time is to get porous pavements. Porous asphalt driveways are unique in their character in the fact that they will let all the water on their surface run directly into the ground below.
There are small pores in the entire asphalt layers that allow water to directly run into the ground. So, there are a lot more air pockets left intentionally in the hot mix. This reduced the amount of material required for the installation process.
Also, porous driveways are eco-friendly at the same time as well keeping the ground below fertile. Save money with a porous pavement that will look good and new for a long time.
Look for Deals and Special Offers for Driveway Installation
Many pavement installation contractors will offer discounts and deals at different times of the year. This is a great way to save money on your driveway installation. Also, when you ask them for service, they might be able to offer some additional discounts as well.
These deals might be time of the year specific. However, whenever you have one available, make sure to get it. Also, another good way is to get multiple quotes from several service providers.
When you have multiple quotes, you will be in a position to negotiate the price slightly. However, be ready to pay whatever is required for a high-quality asphalt pavement.
Ensure Regular Maintenance to Make the Driveway Last Longer
Another cost-saving measure that always works is proper, regular maintenance. Repair works done on time can save time and money in the long run. Cracks, potholes, and loose debris are common problems on asphalt driveways. Also, these factors decrease the lifespan of any asphalt pavement.
Make sure to get your asphalt driveway looked at by a professional in case cracks or potholes start to appear. Early fixes and repairs are the way to go to avoid long-term damage.
Also, maintenance will include timely seal-coating for any asphalt pavement as well. Seal coating every 2-3 years before the winter season is a good way to safeguard the surface for much longer.
Get a Good Asphalt Pavement Installation to Save Time and Money
The very first step in saving money on your asphalt pavement is to get the right installation. Contact a good asphalt pavement company to provide the installation for your property. An experienced local service provider should be the best option in all cases.
Your service provider needs to have some good years of experience under their belt. With local experience, they would be familiar with the local weather and soil conditions.
Also, provide them with the time they need for a detailed pavement installation. They should test the soil below to find out its exact condition. These tests will allow them to prepare the hot mix according to the requirements.
Do Not Store Mulch and Firewood on the Paved Surface to Save Money
Mulch and firewood are notorious for staining asphalt pavements and driveways. As it rains on the mulch or firewood, it will stain the surface. Also, these stains are the worst to get out as well. You will need to do extensive work to remove these mulch or firewood stains.
So, it is always better to not store mulch and firewood on top of the paved surface. Cover the piles with waterproof sheets to avoid their stains from running down.
Also, it is a good idea to store mulch and firewood off the paved surface. If it has to be stored out, keep it on the grassed ground. Avoid the extra cost of removing mulch or firewood stains from the driveway.
And Finally
Asphalt driveways and pavements are hard surfaces. However, they need proper maintenance to make them last a very long time. Proper timely maintenance and getting the right installation from an experienced contractor are keys to saving money. Also, porous driveways are cheaper, eco-friendly, and much better in the long run for residential properties as well.
