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You can expect your asphalt pavement to last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, or 25 years on average. The life expectancy of your asphalt driveway depends on the climate, the amount of traffic, and how well you maintain it. While you can’t necessarily control some of these factors, you can control the amount of maintenance effort you put into your driveway. 

To prevent your asphalt from deteriorating prematurely, you should follow a good maintenance routine involving regular cleaning, reparation work, and resealing.

Asphalt is made of aggregate materials (sand, rocks, and gravel) and bitumen, a viscous, petroleum-based, waterproof substance. These materials are mixed together at extremely high temperatures to form asphalt.

If you notice minor cosmetic problems with your driveway, you should seal it. Look out for cracks and holes on the surface, faded asphalt or concrete, and stains from oil and other chemicals. Replacing your driveway may be necessary if you’re dealing with significant problems—¼-inch cracks, large potholes, and puddles from drainage issues. The cost to install an asphalt driveway typically ranges between $4,200 and $9,000, significantly more than resealing. Consider talking to a professional to discuss whether resurfacing your driveway—a midway project between resealing and replacing—is a better option for you.

You should not attempt to install your own driveway. Whether working with asphalt or pavement, this is a complicated project that requires special equipment. Talk to some nearby asphalt or paving professionals and discuss your particular needs—it’s a good idea to get a few quotes and look at the company’s past work.