Asphalt is one of the most durable materials used for paving roads, driveways and parking lots. But even this tough material can succumb to wear and tear over time. When that happens, it’s important to know how to repair asphalt so you can keep your surfaces looking like new.
In this article, we’ll cover the basics of asphalt repair and share some of the most common asphalt repair issues and how to fix them. We’ll also answer the question: when is it time to call in a professional for help?
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about asphalt repair.
What is Asphalt Repair?
Asphalt repair refers to any process that restores an asphalt surface to its original condition. This can include anything from minor crack filling to complete resurfacing.
There are a number of reasons why you might need to repair your asphalt. The most common reason is simply age and wear. Over time, exposure to sunlight, heat, cold, and moisture can cause the surface of the asphalt to deteriorate. This can lead to cracks, potholes, and other damage.
Another common reason for asphalt repair is improper installation or maintenance. For example, if the subgrade wasn’t properly prepared before the asphalt was laid, it can lead to premature cracking and potholes. Or if the asphalt wasn’t compacted properly after it was installed, it can also lead to problems.
10 Most Common Asphalt Repair Issues (and How to Fix Them)
Cracks
One of the most common problems you’ll encounter with asphalt is cracks. Cracks can be caused by a number of factors, including age, weather, and improper installation or maintenance. They can also be caused by things like tree roots and vehicle traffic.
There are a few different ways to fix cracks in asphalt. The best method will depend on the size and depth of the crack. For small cracks, you might be able to use a cold patch material or sealant. For larger cracks, you may need to do a more extensive repair, such as filling the crack with hot asphalt mix or tamping down a repair patch.
Potholes
Potholes are another common issue with asphalt. They’re usually caused by water seeping into the asphalt and then freezing, which can cause the asphalt to crack and break apart. Potholes can also be caused by things like vehicle traffic and tree roots.
To fix a pothole, you’ll need to remove the damaged asphalt and replace it with new material. This is best done by a professional, as it can be a fairly involved process. First, the area around the pothole will need to be excavated. Then, a new base will need to be installed and compacted. Finally, fresh asphalt will be added and compacted to finish the repair.
Raveling
Raveling is another issue you might encounter with your asphalt. It happens when the surface of the asphalt begins to break down and crumble. This can be caused by things like weathering, improper installation, and poor maintenance.
To fix raveling, you’ll need to remove the damaged asphalt and replace it with new material. This is similar to repairing a pothole (described above). First, the area around the raveled section will need to be excavated. Then, a new base will need to be installed and compacted. Finally, fresh asphalt will be added and compacted to finish the repair.
Alligator Cracking
Alligator cracking is a type of damage that can occur in asphalt. It gets its name from the way the cracks look, which resemble the scales on an alligator’s back. Alligator cracks are usually caused by things like poor drainage, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and extreme temperatures.
To fix alligator cracking, you’ll need to remove the damaged asphalt and replace it with new material. This process is similar to repairing a pothole or raveling (described above). First, the area around the cracked section will need to be excavated. Then, a new base will need to be installed and compacted. Finally, fresh asphalt will be added and compacted to finish the repair.
Depressions
Depressions are another issue that can occur in asphalt. They’re usually caused by things like vehicle traffic or poor drainage. Depressions can also be caused by tree roots growing underneath the asphalt.
To fix a depression, you’ll need to remove the damaged asphalt and replace it with new material. This process is similar to repairing a pothole or raveling (described above). First, the area around the depressed section will need to be excavated. Then, a new base will need to be installed and compacted. Finally, fresh asphalt will be added and compacted to finish the repair.
Edge Cracking
Edge cracking is another type of damage that can occur in asphalt. It’s caused by things like poor drainage and vehicle traffic. Edge cracks can also be caused by tree roots growing underneath the asphalt.
To fix edge cracking, you’ll need to remove the damaged asphalt and replace it with new material. This process is similar to repairing a pothole or raveling (described above). First, the area around the cracked section will need to be excavated. Then, a new base will need to be installed and compacted. Finally, fresh asphalt will be added and compacted to finish the repair.
Raised Seams
Raised seams are created when two pieces of asphalt are joined together and can create a tripping hazard for pedestrians and cyclists. They can also lead to water infiltration and create problems with drainage. To fix raised seams, you’ll need to remove the old sealant or filler material from between the seams, add new sealant or filler material, and then smooth it out.
Paving Over Wet Ground
Paving over wet ground can cause the asphalt to shift and settle, which can create problems with drainage. It can also lead to the formation of potholes. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that the ground is dry before paving.
Spalling
Spalling is the process of asphalt surfaces flaking or peeling off in small pieces. It can be caused by things like heavy traffic or poor maintenance. Spalling can create a safety hazard for pedestrians and cyclists and can also lead to water infiltration and drainage problems. To fix spalling, you’ll need to remove any loose material from the affected area, add new sealant or filler material, and then smooth it out.
Poorly Compacted Subgrade
A poorly compacted subgrade can cause the asphalt to settle and shift, which can create problems with drainage. It can also lead to the formation of potholes. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that the subgrade is properly compacted before paving.
Additional Tips
Improper Asphalt Mix –
Using an improper asphalt mix can cause the asphalt to deteriorate and crack over time. It can also lead to the formation of potholes. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that you’re using the right asphalt mix for your project.
Sealcoating Too Often –
Sealcoating too often can actually damage the asphalt and shorten its lifespan. You should only sealcoat your asphalt every 3 to 5 years.
Not Cleaning Up Spills –
Spills on asphalt surfaces can lead to staining and premature deterioration. To avoid these problems, you should clean up any spills as soon as possible.
Overloading Dumpsters –
Overloading dumpsters can cause the asphalt to crack and shift, which can create problems with drainage. It can also lead to the formation of potholes. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that you’re not overloading your dumpsters.
Poorly Trained Employees –
Employees who are not properly trained in how to maintain an asphalt surface can actually damage the asphalt and shorten its lifespan. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that your employees are properly trained before they start working on your project.
Incorrect Use of Chemicals –
The use of incorrect chemicals can damage the asphalt and shorten its lifespan. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that you’re using the right chemicals for your project.
Not Repairing Cracks and Potholes –
Cracks and potholes can allow water to infiltrate the asphalt and cause it to deteriorate. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that you’re regularly repairing any cracks or potholes in your asphalt.
Not Maintaining Equipment –
Equipment that is not properly maintained can damage the asphalt and shorten its lifespan. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that you’re regularly maintaining your equipment.
Failing to Follow Safety Procedures –
Failing to follow safety procedures can lead to accidents, which can damage the asphalt and shorten its lifespan. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that you’re following all safety procedures when working on your project.
Not Following manufacturer’s Instructions –
Not following manufacturer’s instructions can damage the asphalt and shorten its lifespan. To avoid these problems, you should make sure that you’re following all manufacturer’s instructions when working on your project.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a number of different problems that can occur with asphalt. However, most of these problems can be fixed with a bit of time and effort. If you encounter any of these issues with your asphalt, be sure to take care of them as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Asphalt repair: DIY or professional?
When it comes to asphalt repair, there are two options: do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional. Both have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide which is the best option for you.
DIY asphalt repair is cheaper, but it can be tricky to do it correctly. If you’re not familiar with the process, it’s easy to make mistakes that will end up costing you more in the long run. Professional asphalt maintenance service is more expensive, but you can be sure that the job will be done right.
So, which is the best option for you? It depends on your skills and budget. If you’re comfortable doing the job yourself and you have the time and resources, then DIY is a good option. But if you’re not confident in your abilities or you don’t have the time or resources, then hiring a professional is a better choice. Freedom Asphalt is a professional asphalt maintenance service in Dover, PA. We have the experience and expertise to get the job done right, and we’ll work with you to find a solution that fits your budget. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
For more information about Freedom Asphalt or to get a free quote for asphalt maintenance, asphalt repair, sealcoating, paving, pavement marking, visit our website https://freedomasphalt-net-staging.us9.cdn-alpha.com/ or call us at 717-502-2222. We strive to be the best asphalt maintenance in Dover, PA. You can trust Freedom Asphalt to always provide satisfaction guaranteed asphalt maintenance.