Asphalt surfaces are an essential part of our everyday lives. Whether it’s the road you drive on or your driveway at home, asphalt is one of the most commonly used materials for paving. Over time, however, even the best asphalt surfaces face wear and tear, which can lead to a number of common issues.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at the 10 most common asphalt issues you might face, and how an asphalt maintenance company can help fix them.
1. Cracks in the Asphalt
Cracks are one of the most common issues that can develop in asphalt. Over time, weather conditions, traffic, and general wear can cause the asphalt to crack. Cracks can range from small surface cracks to larger, more serious ones. If left untreated, these cracks can worsen, leading to bigger problems like potholes or uneven surfaces.
An asphalt maintenance company can help you with crack filling. This involves cleaning out the crack, applying a sealant, and filling it to prevent water from getting inside and causing further damage. Regular asphalt driveway maintenance can also help prevent cracks from forming in the first place by applying sealcoat to protect the surface.
2. Potholes
Potholes are another common issue that homeowners and businesses often face. They are typically caused by cracks in the surface that allow water to seep in, weakening the asphalt. When this happens, the surface can break apart, creating a hole.
To fix potholes, you’ll need the help of an asphalt repair near me. An asphalt maintenance company will fill in the pothole, compact it, and ensure that it’s level with the surrounding surface. For larger potholes, the repair may involve removing the damaged section and replacing it with fresh asphalt.
3. Surface Damage from Weather
Extreme weather conditions like heavy rainfall, freezing temperatures, and intense heat can take a toll on your asphalt surface. Rain can wash away the binder that holds the asphalt together, while freezing temperatures can cause the surface to crack and crumble. Over time, this type of weathering can cause serious damage to your asphalt driveway or parking lot.
A commercial asphalt maintenance company can help protect your asphalt surface from weather damage by applying a protective sealant. This not only helps to keep moisture out but also adds a layer of protection against UV rays from the sun.
4. Water Drainage Issues
Proper water drainage is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your asphalt surface. When water isn’t able to drain properly, it can pool on the surface and seep into cracks or holes. This leads to further damage, especially in colder climates where water can freeze and cause even more cracks.
An asphalt maintenance company can help address water drainage issues by ensuring that the surface is properly sloped. They may also install drainage systems to direct water away from the asphalt, preventing any future water damage.
5. Raveling
Raveling is the term used to describe the process when the surface of the asphalt starts to break apart, often due to the loss of aggregate particles. This can happen when the asphalt binder breaks down over time, causing the surface to become rough and uneven.
Asphalt repair near me companies can fix this issue by resurfacing the asphalt. This involves removing the damaged top layer and applying a new layer of asphalt, which restores the smooth surface and ensures that the asphalt remains strong and durable.
6. Uneven Asphalt Surface
An uneven asphalt surface can be a major issue, especially for driveways or parking lots where vehicles need to travel smoothly. Uneven surfaces can occur due to poor installation, settling of the ground beneath, or damage from weather conditions.
To fix an uneven surface, an asphalt maintenance company will typically perform an overlay. This involves adding a new layer of asphalt to the existing surface, which helps to level it out. In some cases, the ground may need to be regraded to ensure that the asphalt remains level in the future.
7. Asphalt Wear from Heavy Traffic
Asphalt surfaces in commercial or industrial areas often face the stress of heavy traffic. Over time, this constant wear and tear can cause the asphalt to break down, crack, or even form large potholes.
A commercial asphalt maintenance company is experienced in handling the needs of high-traffic areas. They can provide regular maintenance such as sealcoating, crack filling, and resurfacing to keep the asphalt surface in good condition and prevent costly repairs down the road.
8. Stains and Oil Spills
If you’ve ever had an oil spill in your driveway, you know how difficult it can be to get rid of those stains. Oil and other chemicals can seep into the asphalt, breaking down the materials and leaving unsightly stains.
To remove these stains, an asphalt maintenance company can use special cleaning methods and sealants that not only remove the stain but also help to protect the surface from future damage. Regular asphalt driveway maintenance can also help by sealing the surface and making it more resistant to stains.
9. Discoloration
Over time, asphalt surfaces can become discolored, turning from a dark, rich black to a faded gray. This is typically caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays, which break down the asphalt over time.
One of the best ways to prevent discoloration is by applying a sealcoat to the surface. This creates a protective barrier that helps maintain the asphalt’s original color and keeps it looking new for longer. An asphalt maintenance company can provide regular sealcoating services to ensure your asphalt stays in top condition.
10. Poor Initial Installation
Sometimes, the issues you face with your asphalt surface may be due to poor installation in the first place. This could include problems like inadequate compaction, improper slope, or using low-quality materials.
If your asphalt was poorly installed, it may require significant repairs. An asphalt maintenance company can help by removing the damaged areas and re-paving the surface properly, ensuring that it’s installed to last.
The Role of Asphalt Maintenance Companies
Hiring an asphalt maintenance company is a smart decision if you want to keep your asphalt surfaces in the best possible condition. They have the expertise, tools, and experience needed to handle all of the above issues and more. Whether it’s routine maintenance or repairing more serious problems like potholes or cracks, an asphalt maintenance company can save you money in the long run by preventing larger issues from developing.
For homeowners and businesses alike, regular asphalt driveway maintenance or parking lot upkeep is essential. If you notice any of the common issues we’ve discussed, don’t wait for them to get worse. Contact an asphalt maintenance company that offers asphalt repair near me services, and get your surface fixed before the problems become more costly.
Fix Potholes and Cracks with Expert Now!
Asphalt is a durable and reliable material, but like anything, it requires regular care and maintenance. From cracks and potholes to drainage problems and discoloration, there are a number of common issues that can affect your asphalt surface. Fortunately, an asphalt maintenance company can provide the necessary repairs and maintenance to keep your asphalt looking great and performing well for years to come.
Whether you need asphalt driveway maintenance or commercial asphalt maintenance for a large parking lot, the professionals are ready to help. The key is to address the problems early on, so you don’t face expensive repairs later. So, if you’re dealing with any of these issues, don’t hesitate to contact an asphalt maintenance company today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the most common causes of asphalt cracks?
Asphalt cracks can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather changes, heavy traffic, and moisture penetration. Freezing temperatures can cause water to expand within cracks, further worsening the damage. The constant pressure from vehicles and the natural aging process of the asphalt also contribute to cracking over time.
2. How often should I schedule asphalt driveway maintenance?
It’s recommended to schedule asphalt driveway maintenance at least once a year to keep your driveway in top shape. Regular inspection and maintenance, including sealcoating, crack filling, and resurfacing, can extend the life of your asphalt and prevent costly repairs.
3. How can an asphalt maintenance company fix a pothole?
An asphalt maintenance company will typically begin by cleaning out the pothole and removing any loose debris. They will then fill the hole with a mixture of fresh asphalt, compact it to ensure stability, and level it with the surrounding surface. For larger potholes, they may need to replace more of the asphalt to restore the surface.
4. Can I repair asphalt cracks myself?
While small cracks can sometimes be filled with DIY crack filler, it’s generally better to hire a professional asphalt maintenance company. They can ensure that the crack is properly cleaned, filled, and sealed to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.
5. Will sealcoating protect my asphalt from weather damage?
Yes, sealcoating acts as a protective layer that shields the asphalt from the damaging effects of weather. It helps prevent UV rays, water, and chemicals from breaking down the asphalt. Applying sealcoat regularly can help extend the lifespan of your asphalt surface.
