For buyers, guests, and even appraisers, your driveway is one of the first things they notice. Faded color, spider-cracks, and crumbling edges quietly drag down curb appeal—and can hint at bigger problems under the surface. If you’re in Plainfield or nearby communities like Naperville, Joliet, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Lockport, Shorewood, Oswego, Aurora, and Crest Hill, here’s how to tell if your driveway is costing you value—and what to do about it.

Why First Impressions Matter (More Than You Think)

• Curb appeal = perceived value. A fresh, smooth driveway frames the home and signals proper maintenance.

• Safety & function. Trip hazards, pooling water, and broken edges aren’t just eyesores; they’re safety and drainage issues.

• Resale advantage. Homes with well-maintained driveways show better and often sell faster.

7 Signs Your Driveway Is Lowering Curb Appeal

1. Alligator cracking (interlaced cracks) that spread each season.

2. Potholes or depressions that collect water after rain.

3. Raveling—loose aggregate and gritty surface texture.

4. Faded, gray surface that won’t darken even after cleaning.

5. Edge breakup where vehicles enter/exit.

6. Drainage issues—standing water near the garage or sidewalks.

7. Heaving/settlement from freeze-thaw cycles common in Chicagoland.

Fix Options: Repair, Resurface, or Replace?

Quick Repairs (Patch & Infrared):

• Best for isolated holes, edge breaks, or small failed spots.

• Fast, affordable, and stops water from getting under the mat.

Resurfacing / Overlay:

• Adds a new asphalt layer over a stable base.

• Ideal when 25–40% of the surface is distressed but the foundation is solid.

• Restores that deep, rich black finish buyers love.

Full Replacement:

• Right choice when the base has failed or >40–50% distress.

• We rebuild the base, correct drainage, and install a long-life asphalt mat.

Not sure which you need? We’ll evaluate the base, slope, and surface to recommend the most cost-effective fix for your home.

Built for Illinois Weather

Chicagoland freeze-thaw cycles are brutal on driveways. Our specs focus on:

• Proper base depth & compaction to resist movement.

• Correct pitch to move water away from your garage/entry.

• Quality hot-mix asphalt and rolling for density and longevity.

• Optional sealcoating cycle to defend against UV and salts.

Local Expertise Since 1966

Allrite Paving has paved and restored thousands of driveways across Plainfield, Naperville, Joliet, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Lockport, Shorewood, Oswego, Aurora, and Crest Hill. Homeowners choose us for thick, well-compacted installs, honest guidance, and work that still looks great years later.

Popular Service Areas

• Plainfield Driveway Paving

• Naperville Driveway Paving

• Joliet Driveway Paving

• Bolingbrook Driveway Resurfacing

• Romeoville Driveway Repair

• Lockport Asphalt Driveways

• Yorkville Driveway Replacement

• Oswego Asphalt Paving

• Aurora Residential Paving

• Crest Hill Driveway Contractors

What to Expect (Our Process)

1. On-site assessment & quote (we check base, drainage, and access).

2. Scheduling & prep (remove unstable sections, address sub-base).

3. Install/overlay (proper mat thickness + thorough compaction).

4. Clean edges & transitions for a crisp, finished look.

5. Aftercare plan for long life and curb-appeal that lasts.

FAQ:

How do I know if I can resurface instead of replacing?
If the base is stable (no widespread heaving/settlement) and damage is mostly surface-level, resurfacing is likely a smart, lower-cost option.

How long does a new asphalt driveway last?
With proper base, drainage, and maintenance, 15–25 years is common in our climate.

How fast can I drive/park on it?
Light foot traffic in 24 hours; most passenger vehicles in 3–5 days (weather dependent). We’ll give you exact guidance at install.

Do I need sealcoating?
It’s not a fix for structural issues, but it’s great protection from UV and de-icing salts. We typically recommend every 2–3 years.

Will fixing my driveway really help resale?
Yes—clean, smooth approaches make homes feel well cared for and can lift perceived value and showing quality.

Ready to Upgrade Your Curb Appeal?

Since 1966, Allrite Paving has helped Chicagoland homeowners turn tired driveways into welcoming, high-value entrances. Get a fast, no-pressure estimate today.

Call/Text: (630) 827-8827

Service Area: Plainfield • Naperville • Joliet • Bolingbrook • Romeoville • Lockport • Shorewood • Oswego • Aurora • Crest Hill • Yorkville