5 Signs Your Driveway Needs Repaving

Your driveway takes a beating year after year — from heavy vehicles to harsh Eastern Panhandle winters. Whether you're in Martinsburg, Inwood, or Gerrardstown, knowing when it's time to repave can save you money and prevent bigger problems down the road. Here are five signs to watch for:

1. Widespread Cracking

A few hairline cracks are normal on any asphalt driveway, but when they spread across the surface or form "alligator" patterns, the base layer may be failing. In Berkeley County's freeze-thaw climate, water seeps into these cracks, freezes, and expands — making the damage worse each winter.

2. Potholes Forming

Potholes aren't just an eyesore — they damage vehicles and create tripping hazards. They signal that moisture has penetrated beneath the surface and eroded the sub-base. If you're seeing potholes on your Shepherdstown or Charles Town driveway, patching is only a temporary fix; repaving addresses the root cause.

3. Drainage Issues

If water pools on your driveway instead of running off, the grading has shifted and the surface may be sinking unevenly. Poor drainage accelerates deterioration and can lead to foundation issues for your home. Homeowners throughout the Eastern Panhandle should watch for standing water after rain.

4. Faded, Gray Appearance

Fresh asphalt is rich black. When it turns gray throughout, the binder has oxidized and the surface is brittle and vulnerable. While sealcoating can extend the life of asphalt that's starting to fade, a uniformly gray driveway in Inwood or Hedgesville usually means the pavement is past the point where sealcoat alone will help.

5. Crumbling Edges

Edges that break apart indicate the asphalt is past its useful life and patching won't hold. This is especially common on rural driveways near Gerrardstown and Berkeley Springs where shoulders aren't supported by curbing.

What to Do Next

If you notice two or more of these signs, it's time to call a professional. A+ Paving & Landscaping serves homeowners across West Virginia and Pennsylvania with expert driveway repaving. Contact us for a free estimate — we'll assess your driveway and recommend the most cost-effective solution.