How do I repair my cracked, uneven asphalt driveway?

Question

My driveway is very ugly because parts have sunken and cracked like an eggshell over the years. I tried to use repair sections of it with asphalt a few years ago, and that worked well, but it is coming off constantly and just makes my driveway look worse because it is not all repaired. Is there anyway I can repair it without the help of professionals? Any other tips or ideas are welcome, too.

Answer 1

What is happening is that (best guess here) your driveway is experiencing the freeze thaw cycle. If the base (the dirt under the asphalt) is prepared correctly, it will slow down this problem. However, it is apparent that your base was not done correctly, and now is cracking and settling in places.

You've got several options at this point:
1) Continue to patch the driveway;
2) Have a complete seal and overlay performed;
3) Tear it out and reinstall it.

Eventually, it will be 3. The problem with 1 & 2 is you are only patching the asphalt, not fixing the problem underneath. Anyway, the choice is yours.

Answer 2

It sound past the point of repair. Sorry to say, it is ready to be replaced.