People choose to have asphalt driveways for a variety of reasons. They're superior aesthetically, and they last long. According to The Spruce, an asphalt driveway typically lasts 15-20 years. However, to get the most out of your driveway, you need to invest in asphalt driveway repair and maintenance. Here are three signs that it's time for asphalt driveway repair.

1. Alligator Cracks

This is one of the most obvious signs that you need to think about asphalt driveway repair. Alligator cracks are shallow fissures on the surface of your driveway that usually span a large area. In most instances, these cracks resemble an alligator's skin, as you might have imagined from the name. To fix alligator cracks, you may need full-depth reclamation of the affected asphalt. Fortunately, asphalt contractors deal with this all the time. All you need to do is find a reliable contractor, and your driveway will be as good as new in no time at all.

2. Drainage Issues

This is another sign that there's something wrong with your asphalt driveway. Lingering moisture is one of the worst threats to your asphalt driveway. It can end up getting into the space between the layers, and this affects the binding agents. If you notice puddles in your asphalt driveway, you must look for an asphalt driveway repair company as soon as you can. They'll come and level these problem areas. This reduces the risk of potholes, cracks, and other types of damage.

3. Faded Color

Over time, one thing you'll start noticing is your asphalt driveway changing color from black to gray. This is a sign of UV ray damage and wear resulting from frequent use. As a result, you find that changing color is common in older driveways. When this happens, it can also mean that your driveway is now more susceptible to cracking due to increased brittleness. The best way to deal with this issue is to hire an asphalt driveway repair company for seal coating. This can protect your faded driveway from more serious damage.

These are some signs that you need to think about asphalt driveway repair. It's important not to wait until there are major problems to repair your driveway. If you do this, you can end up with a driveway so damaged that the only way to restore it would be a new installation. Get in touch with Oregon Trail Asphalt LLC today if you need asphalt driveway repair services. We would love to hear from you.