What Makes an Asphalt Driveway Last Longer? 4 Factors Make All the Difference

A smooth, long-lasting asphalt driveway doesn’t happen by accident. The quality of materials, installation, and upkeep all play a role in how well your pavement withstands daily wear, weather, and time. If you’ve ever wondered why some driveways stay in great shape for decades while others crack and crumble within a few years, the answer comes down to four important factors:

• A strong foundation

• Proper asphalt installation

• Effective water drainage

• Regular maintenance

Let’s break each one down so you know what to look for—and what to avoid.

Crushed stone foundation base.

1. Build on a Strong Foundation

A driveway is only as good as the base beneath it. Think of it like building a house—without a strong foundation, cracks and structural issues develop over time. In the same way, a driveway with a weak foundation can lead to cracks, potholes, and shifting asphalt as the ground moves beneath it.

What makes a strong foundation:

• Crushed stone base: A 4–6 inch layer of compacted crushed stone (often called CR6 or GAB) helps distribute weight evenly and prevents the asphalt from shifting.

• Reinforcement in certain soils: In areas with clay-heavy or silty soil contractors may add 2–4 inches of base asphalt for extra support.

Without a strong foundation, the surface may crack, settle, or develop potholes much faster. Investing in proper groundwork upfront saves you from major repairs down the line.

2. Install Asphalt the Right Way

Properly compacted asphalt driveway.

The way your asphalt is installed plays a big role in how long your driveway will last. Even if the surface looks fine at first, poor installation can lead to problems down the road.

For a driveway to hold up over time, asphalt needs to be laid at the right temperature and compacted correctly. Ideally, it should be compressed to about 2 to 3 inches thick after paving.

Why does this matter? Because if the asphalt cools too quickly before it’s fully compacted, it won’t bond properly with the base underneath. That creates soft spots that are more likely to crack, crumble, or sink over time.

If your existing driveway has significant cracks or damage, resurfacing—which involves adding a new layer of asphalt over the existing pavement—can be a cost-effective way to restore it. But it only works if done right. Before adding a new layer of asphalt, those damaged sections should be saw-cut and patched so the surface underneath is solid. Simply paving over cracked areas without repairs will only lead to problems resurfacing through the new layer.

When done right, resurfacing can extend the life of your driveway by many years and give it a fresh, clean look without the cost of a full replacement.

3. Prevent Water Damage with Proper Drainage

Water can seriously damage asphalt, especially if it sits on the surface or erodes the edges over time. In areas like Maryland, where we deal with heavy rain and snow, proper drainage is key to keeping your driveway in good shape.

Repaved driveway by Ben Burris Paving with a slight slope and clean edges for proper water drainage.

Here’s what you can do:

• Make sure your driveway has a slight slope
  Asphalt laid with a gentle slope helps water run off instead of pooling. Standing water can seep into the asphalt, causing cracks and soft spots.

• Use proper grading and drainage systems
  The land around your driveway should be shaped (or graded) so that water flows away from the pavement. You can also install drains or gutters to help guide water in the right direction.

• Keep downspouts from draining onto the driveway
  If your home’s downspouts or drainpipes pour water directly onto the driveway, it can wear down the surface over time. Redirect them so water flows into a yard or drain instead.

• Protect the edges of your driveway
  Water that constantly runs along the sides can erode the base underneath, causing the edges to crack, break off, or sink. Keeping water away from the edges helps prevent this.

By managing water properly, you’ll extend the life of your driveway and protect your investment for years to come.

4. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance

A little maintenance goes a long way in extending the life of your driveway. Small cracks, minor wear, and surface stains may not seem like a big deal at first, but if left untreated, they can lead to costly repairs or even require full repaving much sooner than expected.

If you're unsure whether it's time for a full repave, learn the common signs here.

To help your driveway last as long as possible, here’s what you can do:

• Seal your driveway every 2 to 3 years
  Sealcoating is a protective layer that shields your asphalt from sun damage, moisture, and vehicle traffic.

• Fix small cracks and potholes early
  Small cracks may not seem urgent, but water can seep in, freeze, and make them worse fast. Patch them early to avoid bigger issues later.

• Clean up spills quickly
  Oil, gas, and other vehicle fluids can soften and break down asphalt, leading to damage. Wipe up any spills as soon as possible to keep your surface strong.

• Edge the sides regularly
  Overgrown grass, weeds, or invasive plants like bamboo can push into the asphalt, especially along the edges, causing cracks. Use a trimmer or edging tool to keep plant growth away from the driveway.

Not sure what maintenance your driveway needs next? Our maintenance and repair services page breaks it down for you.

Protect Your Driveway for Decades

By focusing on these four factors, you’ll ensure your driveway stays smooth, strong, and long-lasting. When you invest in the right prep, installation, and care, your asphalt driveway can last for decades.

Need help with paving, resurfacing, or maintenance in Maryland? We’re happy to answer your questions and help you choose the best option for your property.

Give our team at Ben Burris Paving a call at (301) 456-5190 or fill out our quick contact form and let us get back to you!