Key Takeaways:
- Asphalt cracks form when water seeps into the pavement and expands/contracts with temperature changes.
- Cracks are unsightly and can cause further damage by letting water through the pavement’s surface.
- Water damage is the most common cause of premature asphalt failure. Prompt pavement repair and maintenance can help extend the life of your asphalt
- Timely repairs are critical when you are looking at repair costs for commercial jobs anywhere from $2,000 to $50,000.
- Infrared repair (IRR) is especially useful for repairing large potholes and cracks.
- Hot mix patching is most often used on larger commercial paving projects.
Parking lots or other commercial pavement require a much higher level of care and attention than private-use pavement. Regular asphalt maintenance is essential in preventing cracks, potholes, and other hazards that can lead to expensive repairs. Additionally, it’s important to invest in high-quality products when constructing a new parking lot or repaving an existing one.
This blog post by Paved Assets covers the essentials you need to know about fixing pavement cracks and potholes the pro way.
Asphalt Cracks: What Are They?
Cracks and potholes form when water seeps into the pavement. Over time, this moisture can cause cracks in the asphalt as it expands and contracts with temperature changes. These cracks are not only unsightly, but they also create avenues for further damage since they let water through the surface of the pavement structure.
Failing to address the cracks and potholes in your asphalt can be detrimental – it could lead to more costly potholes or even total pavement collapse! Timely repairs are critical when you are looking at repair costs for commercial jobs anywhere from $2,000 to $50,000. A single pothole repair can cost $6000!
How do Paving Professionals Fix Commercial Pavement Cracks and Potholes?
Infrared Repair
This method uses infrared heat to repair damaged pavement surfaces. It is especially useful for repairing large cracks and potholes as it heats up the existing pavement material and form a new, strong surface.
Cold Mix Asphalt
This method uses a special cold mix asphalt applied directly to the damaged area of the pavement. This type of repair does not require heating or any other preparation and can be done quickly and efficiently.
Hot Mix Patching
This method involves recycling existing asphalt and heating it to a high temperature. The heated material is then used to fill in cracks and potholes, or damaged areas of the pavement. Hot mix patching is most often used on larger commercial paving projects.
Slurry Seal
This method is used to prevent water from penetrating the pavement and to add a protective layer that will reduce wear and tear. It involves mixing an emulsion with aggregate material and spraying it onto the damaged area. The slurry seal also helps to fill any minor cracks and potholes in the pavement, giving it a more uniform appearance.
Full-Depth Patching
This more extensive repair option involves removing the entire damaged area of pavement and replacing it with new materials. This method is often used to fix larger areas of damage and ensure that the repairs last for many years. The job typically involves removing the existing pavement, cleaning the surface, and then laying down a new layer of asphalt, which is usually prepared with a hot mix. The patch should be tamped down firmly before being smoothed out and sealed to prevent water from getting underneath it. Finally, it must be allowed to cure properly before traffic can begin using it again. In some cases, it may also be necessary to use special sealants or pavement treatments to maximize the lifespan of the repairs.
Related: 8 Sealcoating Facts Every Asphalt Pavement Owner Should Remember
The Benefits of Prompt Pavement Repair
1. Prevent Further Damage:
Water damage is the most common cause of premature asphalt failure. Prompt pavement repair and asphalt maintenance can help extend the life of your asphalt and minimize the risk of damage caused by water.
2. Preserve The Aesthetic of Your Pavement:
Unsightly cracks can make any property look unkempt, negatively impacting its value and curb appeal. Getting ahead of crack issues early on will help maintain a professional appearance.
3. Provide Resilience to High Temperatures:
Over time, extreme weather conditions like scorching summer heat can take a toll on asphalt pavement—but using the correct repair measures can help keep it resilient against such temperatures and ensure it looks great for the long haul.
4. Increase Durability:
Timely repair by professionals protects your pavement from further degradation, keeping it in better condition over time and ensuring that you don’t need costly repairs down the line.
5. Increased Property Value
A well-maintained asphalt pavement will make your property look great and help increase its value.
6. Lower Long-Term Costs:
It is a cost-effective way of keeping your asphalt pavement looking great for years to come.v
7. Reduced Risk of Water Damage:
It helps prevent water from seeping into the subsurface—which can cause further damage to the asphalt and create hazardous conditions on the surface.
8. Improved Safety:
Cracks in an asphalt pavement may let water seep beneath them, causing slippery surfaces that are hazardous for pedestrians—but repairing them promptly can reduce this risk and help keep people safe.
The Gist
All of the pavement repair techniques discussed in this article are cost-effective ways of preserving asphalt pavement. With regular asphalt maintenance, they help you avoid more expensive repairs down the line—so be sure to contact an experienced asphalt repair contractor for help with your project today!
No matter your technique, it’s essential to stay on top of regular asphalt maintenance.
This Is Where Paved Assets Come In!
Paved Assets is a trusted leader in the asphalt and pavement preservation industry, with over 15 years of experience serving Fayetteville. We are devoted to helping property owners and managers secure their parking lots and other paved spaces through services such as sealcoating , line striping, crack filling, and pothole repair . With our expertise in this domain, you can rest assured that we will safeguard your assets for years.
Asphalt surfaces are prone to damage from normal wear and tear and various weather conditions. Our services help clients extend the life of their asphalt while simultaneously reducing potential liabilities associated with accidents or injury – delivering a solid return on investment (ROI). Get a free estimate today.
