Get matched with top asphalt driveway pros in Saint Ignatius, MT

In the United States, roads are usually categorized as one of three types: public roads, other drivable roads, and non-drivable roads. These categories dictate how a road can be used; a non-drivable road might be classified that way because it is heavily damaged and unsafe for cars.

On average, asphalt dries within 24 to 72 hours, meaning it’s solid enough for light traffic—walking and careful driving. Full curing—when asphalt reaches peak strength—can take anywhere from three months to a year. During that time, heavy loads and sharp objects can leave marks. Weather, asphalt mix, and thickness all affect how quickly it dries and cures. If you want your asphalt to last, treat it gently until it’s fully cured. For the best results, check with a professional asphalt contractor for their advice.

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.

Whether you should resurface or replace your asphalt driveway heavily depends on its condition. If the foundation is solid and the damage is minor, resurfacing is your best bet because it’s more affordable and faster than replacing the driveway. But if your driveway has foundational problems and/or severe damage, like large, deep cracks and potholes, then it makes more sense to replace it.