In Fort Wayne, our driveways face a lot.
From freezing temperatures to heavy rain, the wear and tear on our driveways is no joke. It’s not just about a cracked surface or an unsightly pothole—your driveway plays a big role in the safety of your home and your car.
When it starts to show signs of distress, it’s important to take action before things get worse.
A worn-out driveway doesn’t just drag down your curb appeal, it could cost you more in the long run. So, let’s look at seven clear signs that it’s time to pave or repair your driveway.
Don’t skip #3—it’s a big one for Fort Wayne homes!
Key Takeaways
- Driveway damage like potholes or cracks can cause car issues and safety hazards if ignored.
- Keep an eye on drainage problems—water pooling on your driveway can lead to long-term erosion.
- Age catches up to driveways, so if yours is over 20 years old, start planning for paving.
- Resurfacing driveways is a cost-effective option for those with minor cracks, ruts, and fading.
- Regular asphalt maintenance can help extend your driveway’s lifespan and keep it looking sharp.
7 Clues Your Fort Wayne Driveway Needs Paving
Whether you’ve spotted a few cracks or your driveway is downright dangerous, here are the top seven signs that it’s time to get it fixed.
You don’t want to miss out on the benefits of a fresh, smooth driveway—your wallet and your home’s value will thank you later!
1. Potholes and Craters
In Fort Wayne, the freeze-thaw cycles can be brutal on your driveway.
Potholes form, and they don’t just sit there waiting for you to fix them. If left unchecked, they can lead to significant driveway damage, plus they’re a safety hazard for you and your car.
Don’t ignore those driveway potholes! They could result in tire damage, suspension issues, or worse, an injury if someone trips.
Hiring a professional paving contractor to take care of those asphalt repairs quickly will save you time and money. A smooth, safe surface is always a good investment!
2. Cracks Spreading Like Webs
Driveway cracks happen, but not all cracks are created equal.
Small cracks might seem harmless, but Fort Wayne’s weather—hot summers and icy winters—can cause them to spread. Cracks quickly turn into a much bigger problem. Moisture gets in, freezes, and then you’ve got a bigger issue on your hands.
The causes of driveway cracks can be varied, but the solution is simple: call your local Fort Wayne paving professionals.
If you’ve got large cracks or noticeable damage, it’s time to consider driveway paving or resurfacing driveways to avoid further deterioration.
3. Drainage Issues (Don’t Ignore This!)
If water pools on your driveway, it’s more than just an inconvenience.
Poor drainage can quickly escalate into costly problems, as it erodes the foundation and causes deep-set damage. Fort Wayne’s frequent rain and snow can cause driveway water issues that undermine the structure of your driveway.
Look for signs like puddles that won’t go away or water running off the sides.
Getting ahead of drainage problems now could save you thousands later. A paving contractor can help you identify the root cause and offer a solution, whether it’s a simple fix or a larger project.
Don’t let driveway water issues ruin your driveway’s integrity, and fix your drainage problems with one of the best paving contractors in the area!
4. Uneven or Sunken Areas
Asphalt can sink or become uneven over time.
This is a serious issue in Fort Wayne due to shifting soil and freezing temperatures. Uneven surfaces can cause serious driveway damage and make driving or walking hazardous.
Think about how often you drive over that sunken area—imagine what it’s doing to your car’s suspension and tires!
Repairing uneven driveways with proper base preparation is key to a long-lasting driveway that’s both functional and beautiful.
5. Fading Color and Loss of Sealant
Your Fort Wayne driveway’s color doesn’t just fade with age—it’s a sign that the protective sealant has worn off.
This means your driveway is more exposed to UV rays, moisture, and temperature swings, which will only worsen the existing cracks or damage. Resealing might offer a quick fix, but if the color is fading and the sealant is gone, you might need a new driveway installation.
Don’t let faded driveways lower your home’s curb appeal. Sometimes, driveway replacement is the only way to go for a truly restored look.
6. Visible Ruts and Tire Marks
If your driveway has noticeable ruts or tire marks, that’s a sign that it’s time for asphalt maintenance or resurfacing driveways.
Heavy vehicle traffic combined with Fort Wayne’s temperature extremes can create these depressions. These ruts not only make your driveway look bad, but they also cause water to pool and contribute to drainage issues.
A professional paving contractor can assess if resurfacing is all your driveway needs or if a full driveway replacement is required.
7. Age of Your Driveway
Asphalt driveways in Fort Wayne typically last between 15-20 years, depending on how well they’ve been maintained.
If yours is nearing that age, even if it looks okay on the surface, it’s likely to need work soon. The signs of aging asphalt may not be obvious at first, but waiting too long can lead to costly repairs or driveway replacement costs in Fort Wayne.
Proactive care can extend the lifespan of your driveway, but at some point, it’ll need replacing. Keep an eye on the age of your driveway so you’re prepared to make the necessary improvements.
Ready to Revamp Your Driveway? Contact Asphalt Care, Inc.
If your driveway is showing any of these signs, don’t wait! At Asphalt Care, Inc., our paving contractors specialize in all things paving in Fort Wayne. Whether you need a quick repair, full resurfacing, or a new driveway, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today for a free consultation and get started on improving the safety, functionality, and value of your home!
