Seven Signs It’s Time for Asphalt Repair

May 7, 2020

Although asphalt surfaces don’t last forever, they are meant to be durable and shouldn’t deteriorate very rapidly. Keep debris off of it, make repairs as soon as you notice them and sealcoat it every two to three years. These steps and more can help keep your asphalt parking lot, road or driveway looking beautiful year after year. However, ignoring problems for too long can lead to permanent damage and expensive repairs and replacements.

Below are seven telltale signs that it’s time to invest in asphalt repair in Montgomery County, MD:

  • Warping: A huge indicator of asphalt damage is buckling and warping. This can be seen simply by looking at your asphalt pavement’s surface. The surface will appear uneven and sport wavy sections, which worsen over time. Pavement warps when the base layer becomes compromised due to heavy vehicle traffic or failing sealant. Unfortunately, buckling and warping means the asphalt and base need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Cracks: Cracks develop as your paved asphalt surface ages. They are a common sign that indicate it’s time for you to make pavement repairs. Wait too long to carry out repairs and cracks can grow larger and uglier, eventually forming a crack design resembling a web or alligator skin. These cracks tend to be at the surface of pavement, spanning large areas.
  • Potholes: Shallow holes and deep potholes in your asphalt pavement are a real eyesore. They’re also a safety hazard. Inadvertently stepping into a pothole can result in injuries, while driving over them can damage vehicles. Fix potholes early, and fix them correctly.
  • Chemical spills: The types of chemicals found in automotive fluids and industrial solvents can have a negative impact on your asphalt’s binding agent. If ignored, spills will seep into the pavement and may spread to other areas. Call an asphalt contractor for cleanup as soon as you notice a chemical spill or stain.
  • Drainage issues: One of the more damaging things to healthy asphalt pavement is lingering moisture or pooling water, because it can seep between layers and mess with the asphalt’s binding agent. Address puddles immediately to avoid drainage issues that cause cracks, potholes and various other types of damage.
  • Crumbling edges or sinking: Some asphalt roadways, driveways and parking lots lack protective concrete gutters or curbs on their edges. As such, the edges can crumble. These deteriorating edges can break the asphalt feature apart and create hazardous debris. Sinking is another issue. Asphalt pavement sits over crushed stone and a compacted base layer. If this base erodes, your surface can sink.
  • Loose gravel: Loose gravel on a payment’s surface is a sign that some of the aggregate rock and binding agents that make up the asphalt pavement are breaking away. Your surface needs to be sealcoated right away to prevent cracks and other kinds of damage in the future.

The key to a long-lasting asphalt surface is regular care and maintenance. Call Maryland Asphalt LLC today to set up a time for asphalt repair in Montgomery County, MD!

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