Ohio’s changing seasons can be tough on asphalt, especially when driveways are exposed to freezing temperatures, road salt, and moisture year after year. If you’re starting to wonder whether your blacktop is beyond repair, it might be time to repave. Knowing the right time to repave your asphalt driveway in Ohio can save you money in the long run and keep your home looking its best.
Let’s take a look at the most common warning signs and when to take action.
Major Cracks and Spreading Damage
One or two small cracks aren’t usually a big deal. But if you see large or widening cracks—especially ones longer than a foot or forming a spiderweb pattern—that’s a strong sign the asphalt base may be compromised. In Ohio, freeze-thaw cycles can expand even minor cracks into deep fissures. When patching no longer keeps up, it’s time to consider repaving.
Drainage Problems or Standing Water
If water starts pooling on your driveway after a rain, it could mean the slope has been affected by settling or shifting. Poor drainage doesn’t just look bad—it leads to accelerated deterioration beneath the surface. When water no longer flows properly off your driveway, repaving might be necessary to restore the correct grade.
Potholes and Crumbling Edges
Potholes are more than a nuisance. They indicate that water has penetrated deep into the asphalt layers and weakened the foundation. Once potholes form, patching is usually a temporary fix. Crumbling edges or sunken spots also suggest structural problems, especially near driveways with heavier use. If you’re seeing these issues throughout the surface, it’s more cost-effective to repave than to continually repair.
Faded Color and Surface Wear
Over time, the deep black color of fresh asphalt fades to gray, signaling oxidation and exposure to UV rays. While discoloration alone doesn’t mean it’s time to repave, it often accompanies other signs of wear like brittleness or worn aggregate. If the top layer looks rough and weathered, a new coat of asphalt can dramatically improve both appearance and durability.
Your Driveway Is Over 15 Years Old
Even with proper maintenance, most asphalt driveways in Ohio last about 15 to 20 years. If your driveway is nearing that age and showing any of the signs above, it’s probably time to repave. Investing in a fresh surface now can prevent bigger repairs—and expenses—down the road.
Why Ohio Driveways Wear Out Faster
Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycle is notoriously tough on pavement. When moisture gets into cracks and freezes, it expands and breaks apart the asphalt. De-icing salt, snowplows, and UV exposure also speed up wear and tear. Regular sealcoating helps extend the life of your driveway, but eventually repaving becomes the most cost-effective solution.
Thinking About Repaving? Call the Experts
If you’re not sure whether it’s time to repave your asphalt driveway in Ohio, All American Paving can help. Our team offers honest assessments and affordable quotes with no pressure. We’ve been helping homeowners throughout Central Ohio extend the life and beauty of their driveways for years.
