When to Repave?
Even with proper maintenance and sealcoating, asphalt surfaces eventually reach a point where repairs are no longer enough. Repaving restores both the structure and appearance of your pavement, ensuring long-term safety, durability, and performance.
You should start thinking about repaving when you notice:
Widespread Cracking: Large “alligator” or spiderweb cracks that cover broad areas — a sign of base failure.
Potholes and Uneven Areas: Repeated patching or new potholes forming in the same spots indicate subbase weakness.
Drainage Issues: Water pooling or slow runoff often means the surface has lost proper slope or structural integrity.
Surface Erosion or Raveling: Loose gravel, faded color, and crumbling edges show the asphalt binder has broken down.
Multiple Patches and Layers: When more than 25–30% of the surface has been patched or resurfaced, a full mill and overlay is usually more cost-effective.
Recommended Timeline
Light-use residential driveways: 15–20 years between full repaving (with regular sealcoating every 2–3 years).
Commercial parking lots or roadways: 10–15 years depending on traffic volume, weather exposure, and maintenance history.
Heavily trafficked areas: May require milling and resurfacing every 8–12 years for optimal performance.
When Repairs or Resurfacing May Be Enough
Not every pavement issue requires full replacement. In some cases, strategic maintenance can extend the life of your asphalt for years:
Surface Cracks Only: Minor linear cracks can be sealed to prevent water intrusion.
Localized Damage: Isolated potholes or soft spots can be cut out and patched effectively.
Good Base Condition: If the underlying structure is stable, a mill and overlay (grinding down the surface layer and repaving) can restore performance at a lower cost.
Minor Fading or Wear: Sealcoating and crack filling can rejuvenate appearance and prevent further damage.
Professional Assessment
At Elite Asphalt Paving & Maintenance, we evaluate your pavement’s age, condition, and base structure to determine whether repairs, resurfacing, or full replacement is the most cost-effective option. Our goal is to protect your investment with the right solution — not just a temporary fix.