Why bitumen and asphalt driveways are so popular, and how to make sure you get the best out of yours
The driveway is one of the first things that visitors see in residential or commercial property and a poorly-maintained driveway can give off a negative impression. It will also adversely affect the property’s curb appeal, decreasing its value should you want to sell it later. It can even shoo away potential visitors as poorly-maintained driveways can be unfriendly to tyres. No one knows this better than the experienced team at Road Seal Australia!
A properly constructed driveway is also vital for your safety. Uneven asphalt can cause accidents, which can result in injuries, and consequently, lawsuits. It can also be catastrophic for your cars, resulting in costly repairs and damages.
An asphalt and bitumen driveway provides an affordable yet beautiful and robust driveway. Asphalt has been known to give solid performance when used in roads, driveways, and parking lots, which make it a popular choice for Brisbane driveways.
What are Asphalt and Bitumen?
Asphalt is typically used for construction and maintenance of roads, parking lots, ports, sidewalks, airport runways, and sports areas, among many others. It is made up of aggregates such as crushed rock, sand, gravel, binders, and filler. The binder, by its name, binds all the aggregates into a more solid mixture.
Bitumen is the most commonly used asphalt binder. Some use asphalt and bitumen interchangeably, but they are actually different. Bitumen is the liquid that holds your asphalt together. Bitumen is sprayed over aggregate to seal the asphalt. To achieve a two-coat seal, another layer of aggregate is added. Bitumen is produced from petroleum. It is a strong and dense adhesive that is also water and oil-resistant. It is the most commonly used sealer for asphalt roads, driveways, parking areas, and carports.
The benefits of an Asphalt Driveway
Are you planning to install a new driveway in your residential or commercial property, or repair an existing one? An asphalt driveway is one of the best options available for you. Asphalt is affordable, durable, and can last for many years. With proper care and maintenance, you should have an attractive driveway for up to 20 years.
Sealing your asphalt every few years can help protect your driveway from the elements of nature, along with natural wear and tear. Others also use bitumen spray seals separately to pave for a new driveway instead of asphalt.
In summary, here are some of the reasons to choose an asphalt driveway in Brisbane.
Asphalt is flexible
Compared to its concrete counterpart, asphalt is more flexible, making it less prone to cracks.
Asphalt is cheaper
An asphalt driveway in Brisbane is cheaper than a concrete one, so you get more value for your money.
Asphalt is weather resistant
Floods can cause damage to roads, but they can’t produce as much damage with a well-laid asphalt driveway. For areas that experience snow, an asphalt driveway offers a more resilient option and can prevent damage caused by ice melting.
Asphalt sets faster than concrete
Compared to concrete, asphalt has a lesser setting time. Unlike concrete which hardens by curing, asphalt hardens by cooling.
Maintenance of asphalt is cheaper
Unlike a concrete driveway, you can re-seal your asphalt driveway by yourself when the need arises.
How to Take Care of Your Brisbane Asphalt Driveway
Proper maintenance of your asphalt driveway can help extend its beauty and life. It can maintain or improve your home’s curb appeal. It will also help you avoid more costly repair and replacement expenses.
Here are some ways on how to care for your asphalt driveway.
Re-seal your asphalt driveway
Regular seal coating of your driveway increases its protection, helping your asphalt last longer. It helps minimise the negative effects of extreme weather elements on your driveway, such as changing temperatures and severe rains and heat. Experts recommend that you apply a new layer of seal coating on your asphalt every three to five years, to keep it from breaking apart.
Call for asphalt repairs immediately
Call for asphalt repair the moment you see some cracks or depressions on your asphalt driveway. Fixing smaller asphalt problems prevent them from evolving into more serious and costly issues. Seal cracks immediately to prevent water from seeping in and getting into the foundation of your asphalt. Bitumen spray seals can be used to repair cracks and depressions effectively.
