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Oil Spots, Tree Roots, and Cracks: What’s Ruining Your Driveway?

our driveway might seem like a tough surface — but even the strongest asphalt can take a beating over time. From dripping car fluids to sneaky tree roots, your pavement faces daily threats that slowly chip away at its durability and appearance.

At R&R Paving, we’ve seen it all across Hendersonville, Nashville, and surrounding areas. Here’s a closer look at the top driveway destroyers — and what you can do about them.


🛢️ Oil Spots: More Than Just Stains

Leaking oil or transmission fluid from vehicles doesn’t just discolor your driveway — it softens and breaks down the asphalt binder, the glue that holds your driveway together. Over time, these weakened spots can lead to cracks and potholes.

Solution:
Have oil spots professionally cleaned and treated. For long-term protection, sealcoating can help create a barrier against vehicle fluids.


🌳 Tree Roots: The Underground Menace

You may love the shade your tree provides, but beneath the surface, roots are on the move. They can lift and crack the driveway slab, causing bumps, uneven sections, and water pooling.

Solution:
If roots are close to the driveway, we may recommend root barriers, selective removal, or cutting and replacing affected asphalt. Preventive action early on can save major repair costs later.


🌬️ Cracks: Small Gaps, Big Trouble

Small cracks may seem harmless at first, but they invite water in — which expands during freezing temperatures and leads to bigger structural damage.

Solution:
Get cracks filled before winter hits. This inexpensive fix can prevent deeper damage and save you thousands down the line. If cracks are widespread, resurfacing might be the better long-term option.


🧼 Bonus Problem: Poor Maintenance

Even a high-quality asphalt driveway needs upkeep. Without regular cleaning, sealcoating, and inspections, small issues escalate fast.

Solution:
We recommend:

  • Annual inspections

  • Sealcoating every 2–3 years

  • Promptly addressing any cracks, holes, or oil damage


R&R Paving Has the Cure for Driveway Damage

We’ve been protecting and restoring driveways across Middle Tennessee since 1989, with expert asphalt repairs, resurfacing, and maintenance plans to keep your driveway in top shape.

📞 Call us today at (615) 824-6590 for a free estimate — and let’s stop the damage before it gets worse.