Here are some of the most common types of asphalt damage.
While asphalt pavement may be a durable material that can last for years, it will eventually begin to show signs of damage. Deterioration and aging will become apparent as a result of natural exposure to the sun or weather elements. Eventually, you start to notice cracks and other unsightly patches in asphalt pavement. Don’t worry, asphalt damage is actually very common—let’s break down some of the most common types of asphalt damage we tend to see and what some of the solutions may look like.
Cracks or Potholes
Moisture can begin to impact asphalt as a result of rain, snow, or other conditions. That can cause asphalt to rapidly deteriorate, especially during winter, when trapped moisture freezes, expands, and causes the surface to split. Newer asphalt can resist some of that by flexing, though as asphalt ages, it begins to lose that flexibility and starts to crack. Cracks and potholes are an easy fix: once the area is cleaned and any vegetation is removed, crack fill can be used on smaller cracks. Larger holes require patches.
Crumbling Pavement
You may notice when cleaning your driveway or other pavement with a blower or gas-powered sweeper that larger pieces of asphalt can also get blown away. This is a sign that your asphalt is deteriorating and needs to be replaced. The solution here is a repavement, either of the small affected solution or a larger job that requires an asphalt maintenance contractor.
Oxidation
Oxidation is a common kind of asphalt damage that causes asphalt to become gray and fade. This happens due to contact exposure to the sun, which can lead to a faded appearance and make your asphalt more brittle. There is a way to prevent this from happening, though. By applying a coat of sealer to your asphalt pavement, you can bring the beauty of asphalt back and also protect it from exposure to the elements.
Ruts and Uneven Depressions
If cracks and potholes aren’t immediately filled, they can lead to more extensive damage. This is especially true in parking lots or other high-traffic areas where heavy vehicles can create depressions in the surface of the pavement or chip off chunks until it’s a serious issue. In this case, you’re going to need to cut out the damaged section with a gas-powered pavement saw. Then you’ll need to clear it out, pour enough pothole repair to patch it and make sure the material is flush with the rims of the cutout. This should be enough to completely patch the hole and leave you with fresh new asphalt.
Contact M&D Paving Today!
Are you ready to start your next paving project? If you want professionals you can trust for high-quality concrete or asphalt paving, look no further than M&D Paving, Inc. We are a third-generation, family-owned, and operated asphalt paving company serving the Maryland area. With over 35 years of experience, we are a licensed, bonded, and insured MHIC member. Contact us online or give us a call at (443)-820-3057 to get a free estimate today.
