Your asphalt pavement begins to be subjected to stress as soon as it is built. It must bear the weight of traffic, withstand the damaging effects of the sun, retain the flexibility to expand and contract with every freeze/thaw cycle, and remain watertight throughout its life. When stresses cause cracks to appear in your pavement, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible. Cracks that are left open to the elements allow water to reach the foundation layers that your pavement relies on for its strength and resiliency. Water that reaches the foundation can destabilize the base, allowing voids to form between the base and the pavement. These voids often appear as small depressions that hold water long after the rest of the pavement is dry. Vehicles driving over these voids can collapse the pavement, creating a pothole. Furthermore, the water trapped beneath the pavement can freeze, exerting pressure on the weakened pavement. The result can be potholes or alligator cracking; both of these types of damage typically require asphalt patching to repair.
What Is Asphalt Patching?
There are different methods that an asphalt contractor can use to patch potholes or areas of alligator cracking. The method chosen will depend on the weather, the extent of the damage, and the overall condition of the pavement. Some methods will deliver a permanent repair, but other methods offer only temporary solutions. However, it is important to remember that it is better to have any type of patch installed than to leave a pothole open to the elements.
• Cold Patch: A cold patch is a very temporary repair that has a life measured in weeks or months. It is a simple procedure that is usually reserved for situations requiring immediate attention at a time when the asphalt plants are closed or when the weather does not make a permanent repair possible.
• Surface Patch: A surface patch is sometimes called a skin patch. Surface patches will last longer than a cold patch; if not damaged by snowplows, skin patches can last 18 to 24 months. Therefore, surface patches are considered temporary repairs.
• Saw and Replace: If the area adjacent to the damaged pavement and the base layers beneath it are in acceptable condition, it may be possible to use this method. A square or rectangle slightly larger than the damaged area is cut and removed. New asphalt is then installed and compacted. This is a long-lasting repair that is considered a permanent fix.
• Full-Depth Repair: This is essentially the same as the saw and replace method, but it includes making repairs to the base layers. This provides a permanent repair that should last as long as or longer than the surrounding pavement.
At Two Men and A Striper, we specialize in the maintenance of asphalt driveways and parking lots throughout the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. We offer asphalt patching, sealcoating, crack sealing, and line striping. We have an impeccable reputation that is based on our high-quality work, exceptional customer service, professional project management, and reasonable prices. To receive a free quote with no strings attached, call 412-213-8429 or use the online form.
