Asphalt is a great alternative to concrete for paving everything from driveways to parking lots. This durable, yet flexible surface material is hard to beat, considering it cures quickly, it’s easy to maintain and repair, and it’s a lot less expensive than concrete. Whereas major damage to concrete paving requires wholesale removal and replacement, asphalt can be repaired and repaved at far less expense and with minimal downtime.
Unfortunately, asphalt surfaces are not immune to damage from the elements and overall wear and tear. With proper maintenance, including regular seal coating, you can stave off the worst damage, but over time you’re still likely to experience minor issues like cracks, chips, and potholes. Failing to treat these problems with haste could lead to worsening damage in a hurry, so it’s best to address potholes before they grow. How is this done? Here’s what you need to know about asphalt pothole repair.
Where do Potholes Come From?
It’s not much of a stretch to imagine the damage that tons of metal rolling over a surface can do over time, so as you can guess, traffic is a major culprit behind the appearance of potholes in asphalt pavement. However, you might not realize that the sun and other elements can be equally harmful to driveways and parking lots.
To start with, UV rays are harmful to more than your skin. They can also attack the chemical bonds that hold asphalt together, leading to cracks, chips, and potholes with time. Once a small pothole forms, the infiltration of water can significantly exacerbate the problem, which is why speedy treatment is so imperative.
How to Treat Potholes
Pothole repairs are surprisingly simple when completed by experienced professionals. Using high-grade materials, experts in asphalt repairs can quickly fill potholes and have your driveway or parking lot back in usable condition within 24 hours, and at relatively little expense.
Preventive Maintenance
Whether you’ve recently had cracks and potholes repaired or you’ve got completely new asphalt surfaces, the best way to prevent further problems is with proper maintenance, including a regular schedule of seal coating, and eventually, resurfacing.
With regular and thorough maintenance, you can keep costs low, preserve the beautiful appearance of pavement, and extend the usable life of your driveway or parking lot. Immediate repairs are a must when you notice potholes or other damage, but ongoing asphalt maintenance is the best option to avoid major damage in the first place.