When a driveway starts lifting and cracking, most homeowners assume it’s just age or weather to blame. But for this charming home in Hummelstown, PA, the real culprits were hiding underground.
Surrounded by mature trees, the property offered shade, beauty, and privacy—but also a problem. Tree roots had spread underneath the original driveway, pushing up the surface over time and making it uneven, cracked, and unsafe to walk or drive on. That’s where we came in.
Clearing the Way for a Solid Foundation
At ProSeal Asphalt Maintenance Inc., we’ve seen firsthand how invasive tree roots can quietly wreak havoc on paved surfaces. For this project, the first priority was getting to the root of the problem—literally.
We began by carefully excavating the damaged sections of the existing driveway.
Once exposed, we removed the underlying root systems that had caused the lifting and bulging. It’s crucial to take this step before any new paving work begins. Skipping it might mean a smoother surface today, but more cracks and bumps a year or two down the road.
Regrading for a Durable, Drainage-Friendly Surface
With the roots cleared, we focused on what lies beneath the asphalt: the grade. Because the surrounding landscape slopes and the original base had shifted over time, we needed to relevel the area to ensure proper drainage. This step is easy to overlook, but critical to the long-term health of a driveway.
We rebuilt the base with fresh aggregate and graded it to encourage water runoff away from the home and surrounding landscaping. It’s this kind of detail that prevents pooling, soft spots, and erosion—all things that shorten the life of a driveway.
Fresh Asphalt, Seamlessly Tied In
With the base prepped and leveled, we installed a new asphalt driveway, tying it cleanly into the existing roadway and front entry. The result is smooth and sharp-looking, with a consistent finish that complements the home’s character without disrupting the natural surroundings.
One of the standout features of this project is how the new driveway fits into the wooded landscape.
The sleek blacktop offers a fresh contrast to the rustic charm of the fencing and the natural shade from the trees, giving the property a polished look while preserving its original warmth.
A Noticeable Upgrade for Everyday Living
This was a complete transformation of how the homeowners use and feel about their driveway. From safer foot traffic to smoother vehicle access, the difference is something you notice every day.
And because we addressed the root issues (pun intended) before installing the new surface, the results are built to last—even with the trees sticking around.
Got driveway damage in Hummelstown or nearby?
If your driveway is cracking, lifting, or draining poorly, we’re here to help.
We handle everything from tree root removal to full asphalt replacements—always with long-term performance in mind. Reach out to schedule a free consultation and get your property back on solid ground.
