When Is It Time to Replace Your Driveway?

Your driveway works hard every day—bearing the weight of vehicles, enduring the freeze-thaw cycle, and taking whatever Minnesota’s weather decides to throw at it. Over time, even the best-built driveways will show signs of age. But how do you know when it’s time to repair, resurface, or fully replace it?

At Valley Blacktopping, Inc., we help homeowners make the right call for their property and budget. Here are some key signs that it might be time to replace your driveway.

1. Large Cracks or Widespread Spider Cracking

Small cracks can often be sealed, but when cracks become wide, deep, or spider out across the surface, they signal structural issues beneath the pavement. Water gets into these cracks, freezes, expands, and worsens the damage over time.

2. Potholes or Sunken Areas

One pothole might be fixable—but if you have several, or if parts of your driveway are sinking, it's often a sign that the base has eroded or failed. A failing base can’t be fixed with patching—it usually means it’s time for replacement.

3. Drainage Issues

If water is pooling on your driveway, that’s a red flag. Poor drainage can quickly break down the surface and base of your driveway. A new driveway can be re-graded and properly sloped to move water away from your home and pavement.

4. Crumbling Edges

Driveways that are cracking or crumbling around the edges are often nearing the end of their lifespan. This is especially true for asphalt driveways that haven’t been sealed regularly or have taken damage from snowplows or vehicles going off the edge.

5. Age of the Driveway

Most asphalt driveways last 15–25 years if properly maintained. If yours is nearing that range and starting to show its age, investing in a new driveway might actually be more cost-effective than ongoing repairs.

6. Frequent Repairs That Don’t Last

If you’re constantly sealing cracks or patching spots, only for them to reappear or worsen, it’s time to stop throwing money at temporary fixes. A new driveway will save you time, stress, and money in the long run.

Bonus: Curb Appeal and Resale Value

An old, stained, or cracking driveway can drag down the look of your entire home. If you’re planning to sell, a new driveway is one of the most noticeable—and valuable—upgrades you can make for first impressions.

Is It Time for a Fresh Start?

If any of these signs sound familiar, let’s talk. At Valley Blacktopping, Inc., we’ve been helping Minnesota homeowners with honest assessments and top-quality paving work since 1976. Whether you need advice, or a full replacement estimate, we’re here to help.

Get in touch today to schedule a free on-site assessment!