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Serving all of Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs

Case Study: How Often Should You Replace Your Asphalt Driveway?

Background

The Smith family owns a suburban home in Algonquin, IL. Their asphalt driveway was installed in 2005 and served as the primary parking area for two family vehicles, with occasional use by visiting friends and relatives. Like most homeowners, the Smiths wanted to maximize the life of their driveway while keeping maintenance costs reasonable.

The Problem

By 2023, the driveway showed visible signs of aging:

  • Surface Cracking – Multiple “alligator” cracks and edge crumbling.

  • Drainage Issues – Uneven settling caused water pooling after rainstorms.

  • Fading & Erosion – The rich black color had turned gray, with loose gravel appearing in spots.

  • Safety Concerns – Small potholes were forming, posing a trip hazard and potential damage to tires.

The Smiths were unsure whether to patch the driveway, resurface it, or fully replace it.

Analysis

Industry standards suggest that an asphalt driveway lasts 15–20 years with proper care. The Smiths’ driveway was now 18 years old, right at the end of the expected lifespan. Several factors had accelerated its wear:

  • Freeze-Thaw Cycles common in Illinois winters expanded existing cracks.

  • Heavy Vehicles like delivery trucks placed stress on the surface.

  • Limited Sealcoating – The Smiths had sealed the driveway only twice in 18 years, instead of the recommended every 3–5 years.

After inspection, PHI3 Construction determined that resurfacing would only be a short-term fix since the underlying base was compromised.

Solution

The decision was made to completely replace the asphalt driveway. Steps included:

  1. Demolition & Removal – Old asphalt was broken up and hauled away.

  2. Base Repair & Compaction – Several sections of the crushed stone base were replaced to improve drainage and stability.

  3. New Asphalt Installation – A 3-inch layer of hot-mix asphalt was applied, compacted, and smoothed.

  4. Edge Support – Reinforced edges reduced the risk of future crumbling.

Outcome

The new driveway:

  • Restored curb appeal with a fresh, deep black finish.

  • Eliminated safety hazards.

  • Improved drainage to extend the surface life.

The Smiths were advised to sealcoat the new driveway within 12 months and then every 3–5 years, which could help them reach the full 20-year potential lifespan.

Key Takeaways for Homeowners

  • Average Replacement Cycle: Asphalt driveways generally need full replacement every 15–20 years.

  • Maintenance Extends Life: Regular sealing, prompt crack repair, and proper drainage management can delay replacement.

  • Know the Signs: Deep cracks, potholes, and base damage usually mean replacement is more cost-effective than repairs.