We're dealing with damage to a 400 foot long asphalt driveway. The driveway has places where a repair is necessary. My questions are:

• At what point does it make sense to replace the entire driveway rather than repair? Is it simply whichever is less costly or are there other considerations?
• If we have a section cut out and replaced is there a reason that section wouldn't last as long as the same section of a totally replaced driveway?
• How long should a cut out and replaced section of asphalt driveway last? Would 10-15 years be unreasonable assuming it's resealed periodically?

 

Those questions would be better answered by the paving company when they come out to give you a bid. A correctly done patch should last as long as the rest with the edges being the weak point. Even after being sealed patches will always show.

 

You really answered your own question. Replace or repair, whatever is cheaper. Repair is fine if the rest of the drive is in good shape. What you might ask yourself or the bidding contractor, is what is causing the break up of the damaged section? Usually it's poor drainage and/or a poor base. But time will take its toll regardless. In most cases a topper layer can be applied to an existing asphalt drive to bring it back to like new condition. Again the existing drive must be in decent shape.
Also, compare cost of concrete as opposed to asphalt. As of late concrete may be cheaper (including removal of an asphalt drive). Another consideration is where you live. Assuming concrete or asphalt is properly laid with a good base and proper drainage, concrete is nicer in the summer or hot moths. but in cold or snowy climate, asphalt is easier to shovel, plow and keep clear of snow. It practically melts and clears itself once a bit of sun hits the black surface. And salt won't hurt asphalt in the same way it might hurt concrete. The down side is constant sealing every one to two years. Also blacktop will "sink" if a car is continually parked in the same spot over and over. When that happens then winter time shoveling becomes tough.