In the perfect conditions, an asphalt driveway should last for years without showing a single crack, stain or sign of fading. But, in reality, things are a little different. Because of the Toronto, Ontario, freeze-thaw weather cycles, a driveway requires a sturdy and flexible material that can withstand the harsh environment. Otherwise, you are very likely to face expensive repairs. Here are some signs that your asphalt driveway is ready to be replaced with Unilock concrete pavers:
Linear Cracks
Linear cracks are long, thin cracks whose presence becomes inevitable as an asphalt driveway starts to age. If not repaired as quickly as possible, dirt or water will enter the cracks, causing them to expand and deepen. Linear cracks are especially sensitive to freeze-thaw cycles, which causes them to spread further when the water that enters the cracks freezes. You can temporarily keep the cracks under control by calling a professional driveway contractor to seal them, but keep in mind that it will soon come down to needing to replace the entire top layer of your asphalt driveway.
This time, invest in interlocking pavers made using Unilock proprietary manufacturing technologies that will keep the driveway in shape for years without showing a single crack. Unilock pavers are specifically made to withstand Toronto freeze-thaw cycles and are also highly fade-resistant. One of the best things about pavers is that they can be replaced individually without the need to replace the entire driveway. Unilock concrete pavers require very little maintenance, unlike asphalt and poured concrete.
Related Read: Ask your Driveway Contractor about these Permeable Paver Options in Mississauga
Spiderweb Cracks
Spiderweb cracks are a more serious problem than linear cracks. This problem is usually the aftermath of poor installation techniques, such as laying the driveway material over multiple layers of sealant that were previously used to fix damage. The best way to repair the asphalt is to replace the entire surface, on a solid base, without any sealants beneath.
To avoid dealing with this problem, choose Unilock concrete pavers as a driveway material, and insist on a Unilock Authorized Contractor for their installation. Unilock pavers are known for their high-performance and beauty, and through the Unilock Authorized Contractor program, you can be put in touch with qualified contractors who uphold Unilock standards with skilled craftsmanship.
Fading Color
Fading color means that the driveway is getting old and losing its original shine. Different weather conditions, such as rain, sun, and wind, as well as traffic, will cause an asphalt driveway to turn a dull, unattractive grey color. The most common cause of a fading driveway is the sun’s UV rays penetrating the surface, oxidizing it and causing it to fade. With asphalt, it’s not just the fading color that is of concern. The UV rays weaken the entire structure, and if its durability has been affected, no sealant can fix it – it will need to be replaced.
This inevitable process can be fixed by installing pavers from the EnduraColor Plus line, such as Courtstone – the ultimate driveway paver that will bring a sense of old-world Europe to your outdoor design. The paver offers deep shades, such as Basalt and Belgian Blue, the neutral Dawn Mist, as well as the warm Pebble Taupe. Courtstone is ideal as a primary paver, as well as for bordering and driveway aprons. For a more modern touch, choose Senzo. This paver will impress you with its unique colors and large size format, and can be used to craft exquisite driveways.
The title image features a Courtstone driveway in Basalt, bordered with Copthorne in Burgundy Red and Brussels Block in Sandstone.
