When the parkway or driveway of your Winnipeg business starts showing signs of wear, watch out! Cracks and potholes are the worst. They aren’t just unsightly—they can also damage your or your customers ‘ vehicles. This is a liability and can leave a permanent stain on your reputation. It may lead you wondering if you can put new asphalt over old asphalt, and whether to tackle it yourself or hire a property maintenance service provider.
Can you or can’t you? This is a common question among property owners. Here’s a basic overview to answer your question and help you make an informed decision.
What to Know Before Putting New Asphalt Over Old Asphalt
Asphalt repair seems fairly straightforward. All you have to do is add a new layer over an old one, right? Yes, but there are a couple of things to know before you make a decision. Think about the following:
- Condition of the Old Asphalt: If the old surface has large cracks, deep potholes, or uneven areas, overlaying new asphalt won’t fix the problem. You need a strong base for new asphalt to bond and function properly.
- Drainage Issues: If the existing surface has poor drainage, water will seep into the new layer, resulting in premature deterioration. You need a strong base for the new asphalt to bond and function as it should.
- Thickness of the New Layer: A thin layer of asphalt on top of the existing surface might be a quick aesthetic fix, but it won’t help with structural problems. A thicker layer is required to improve durability, depending on the condition of the old surface.
- Traffic Load: If the asphalt is experiencing heavy traffic, an overlay might not be enough. When this happens, full resurfacing might be needed to help the surface last longer.
Determining the Cost-Effectiveness of Putting New Asphalt Over Asphalt
Asphalt resurfacing, or overlaying, is a cost-effective solution compared to full replacement. However, you can consider the following:
- Lower Initial Costs: Overlaying new asphalt over old asphalt is an affordable alternative to full replacement. If the foundation is still solid and only the top layer needs repairs, go for it!
- Reduced Longevity: An overlay has lower upfront costs, but doesn’t last as long as a full replacement. The new layer can crack if underlying issues are left unaddressed.
- Long-Term Savings: If your parking lot or driveway constantly needs maintenance or repairs, consider a full replacement rather than patching up the surface. Full replacement offers additional durability and saves you money over time.
When to Replace Asphalt Instead of Overlaying
Overlaying asphalt isn’t always the best option. Sometimes, full asphalt replacement makes more sense. Various factors make a difference, including:
- Major Structural Damage: If the existing asphalt has deep potholes, extensive cracking, or is uneven, overlaying won’t address the root of the problem.
- Poor Drainage: If water pools or drains improperly on your parking or driveway, the asphalt can degrade quickly. Improper drainage has to be addressed before new asphalt is laid. A full replacement may be necessary for proper grading and water management.
- Long-Term Investment: Is your parking lot or driveway super busy? If it is, a full placement makes more sense. It will help the surface last longer and reduce the number of repairs in the future.
Choose What’s Best for Your Asphalt in Winnipeg
Can you put new asphalt over old asphalt? Yes! However, it isn’t always the best option. Sometimes, a full replacement makes more sense. Trying to figure out the best option for your needs? The Whiteout Group in Winnipeg is here for you with the best Asphalt services in Winnipeg. We want your asphalt to last you for years to come.
Ready to update your business’s driveway or parking lot? Contact us today!
