Cracks in the driveway can detract from your property’s curb appeal, making the surface seem worn and allowing space for weeds to grow. To prevent damage, you’ll need to target the root of the problem. The below guide explains some of the common culprits behind cracking as well as tips to help you avoid the need for a full driveway replacement.

4 Common Causes of Asphalt Cracks

1. Improper Installation
Asphalt paving requires a solid base material. Without the proper amount of support, it’s only a matter of time until the driveway begins to crumble. If the base isn’t strong enough, you’ll have to either continue to fill potholes or schedule a driveway replacement. However, you can avoid this issue by verifying that your contractors are reputable and experienced before the project begins. 

2. Tree Roots
Tree roots are known to grow up to 20 feet out from their base. This means that any nearby structures are susceptible to damage. Cutting the roots off at the source is the best way to prevent damage. It redirects the tree’s nutrients to other parts of the root system and helps preserve the condition of the driveway.

3. De-Icing Products
Products that are made to de-ice surfaces can also increase the possibility of cracks. The harsh chemicals will weaken the surface and allow moisture to seep into the material. Opt to use sand instead of de-icers to protect the asphalt and prevent the need for a future driveway replacement.

4. Excess Weight
Whether it’s part of your business or a temporary rental, parking heavy equipment on a driveway can quickly decrease its longevity. Asphalt is made to withstand only so much weight and can begin to show signs of cracking if the machinery is left in one place for too long. Finding another area to store the equipment will maintain the driveway’s appearance for years to come. If this is not an option, vary your parking space daily to reduce damage. 


If you need reliable asphalt paving or snow removal, contact Guarco Construction in Granby, CT. We are family-owned and -operated, and have served Hartford County and the surrounding areas since 1974. We specialize in commercial and residential paving and snow removal. We are renowned for their friendly, dependable service, attention to detail, and competitive rates. Learn more about us online or call (860) 278-5558 to schedule your snow removal or asphalt paving.

What you sell inside your store and the quality of your staff aren’t the only factors that affect your business’s success. The area outside of your store—including your parking lot—can influence your sales. Using asphalt paving for the lot can benefit your business, as the material offers many advantages.

3 Benefits of Asphalt Paving for Businesses

1. Durability
Asphalt is popular due to its durability. The material has a life span of about 15 to 20 years. However, business owners who routinely resurface their pavement can extend it even more. As a result, you’ll reduce future expenses and losses by not having to replace your parking lot for many years.

2. Weather Resistance
Harsh weather conditions can cause significant problems for some types of pavement, but asphalt is designed to avoid damage even when subjected to heavy rain and thunderstorms. Also, asphalt is more flexible than materials like concrete, so it won’t crack due to temperature-related expansion and contraction. This will ensure that the material won’t get damaged as a result of temperatures warming up during the spring, ensuring safer conditions for your customers.

3. Time- & Cost-Efficient
Installing a new parking lot will disrupt your normal business operations. However, choosing asphalt will limit the effect the paving process has on your customers; thanks to its short curing time, your parking area won’t be off-limits for long. Asphalt installation and repair costs are also lower than other materials because it is derived from crude oil. Recycled asphalt can further lower costs since it reuses pre-manufactured materials. 


If you need reliable asphalt paving or snow removal, contact Guarco Construction in Granby, CT. We are family-owned and -operated, and have served Hartford County and the surrounding areas since 1974. We specialize in commercial and residential paving and snow removal. We are renowned for their friendly, dependable service, attention to detail, and competitive rates. Learn more about us online or call (860) 278-5558 to schedule your snow removal or asphalt paving.

Removing snow from your driveway or parking lot is crucial to keeping your car in good condition, protecting the customers, and preventing safety hazards. A snow removal company can help you to do this; they’ll dispatch fully equipped experts to plow the snow when needed. However, it can be difficult to choose a quality provider. Before hiring one, here are a few questions ask about their level of service.

4 Questions for Potential Snow Removal Companies

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?
Look for a snow plowing company with experience. There’s more to the process than meets the eye, and you want to make sure they do a thorough job without damaging the landscaping or property. Additionally, if you have a commercial job for a snow removal business, make sure they have experience with parking lots, not just driveways. 

2. Are You Timely?
It defeats the point of a plowing service if they arrive hours after you needed the driveway cleared. Ask if they always arrive on time, and make sure they have the proper equipment to complete the job efficiently; otherwise, you may have to wait hours while they work. Also, spend some time reading reviews on the company and avoid companies that reviewers called out for providing services later than agreed upon. 

3. What Do You Charge?
Ask what they charge to make sure you don’t overpay and that they’re an honest company. Their price will depend on the size of the area you need plowed, as well as where you live; regions that receive more snowfall often have cheaper plowing services, since the companies are guaranteed more work.

4. Are You a Local Company?
In addition to the economic benefits of supporting local businesses, doing so ensures that the company is acquainted with the weather and conditions in your region. Also, smaller, local businesses often provide better customer service to help them stand out from larger companies. 


If you need reliable asphalt paving or snow removal, contact Guarco Construction in Granby, CT. We are family-owned and -operated, and have served Hartford County and the surrounding areas since 1974. We specialize in commercial and residential paving and snow removal. We are renowned for their friendly, dependable service, attention to detail, and competitive rates. Learn more about us online or call (860) 278-5558 to schedule your snow removal or asphalt paving.