Few things are as frustrating as seeing cracks form in your driveway. Not only do they hurt your home’s curb appeal, but if left untreated, they can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs. At JJ Asphalt Paving, we’ve seen just about every type of driveway damage—and we know exactly what causes it. Here are the five most common reasons driveways start to crack.

1. Weather and Temperature Changes

Your driveway takes a beating from the elements. In summer, extreme heat causes asphalt to expand, while winter’s freezing temperatures make it contract. This constant cycle of expansion and contraction puts stress on the surface, often resulting in cracks. In areas that experience freeze-thaw cycles, water seeps into small openings, freezes, and expands—widening those cracks even more.

2. Poor Drainage

Standing water is one of asphalt’s biggest enemies. If your driveway doesn’t drain properly, rainwater can seep beneath the surface and weaken the base layer. Over time, this leads to shifting, sinking, and cracking. Ensuring proper slope and adding drainage solutions can help extend the life of your driveway.

3. Heavy Loads and Traffic

Driveways are built to handle cars, trucks, and daily use—but excessive weight can take its toll. Large delivery trucks, heavy equipment, or repeated parking in the same spot can stress the asphalt and cause cracks to form. If your driveway wasn’t designed for frequent heavy loads, you may start to see early signs of damage.

4. Subpar Installation or Base Issues

Even the best asphalt won’t last if the foundation beneath it isn’t properly prepared. A weak or uneven base can shift over time, causing the top layer to crack. That’s why choosing an experienced paving contractor is essential—quality installation makes all the difference in how long your driveway will hold up.

5. Natural Aging

Like any surface, asphalt has a lifespan. Over the years, UV rays, traffic, and weather exposure cause the material to oxidize and lose flexibility. This natural aging process makes the asphalt more brittle, and small cracks are bound to appear. Regular maintenance, such as sealcoating, can slow this process down and keep your driveway looking its best.

Protect Your Driveway with JJ Asphalt Paving

Cracks may be common, but they don’t have to ruin your driveway. At JJ Asphalt Paving, we offer expert repair, resurfacing, and maintenance services that can restore your driveway and protect it for years to come. Whether you need minor crack sealing or a complete repaving, our team has the experience to get the job done right.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your driveway in top shape!