When it comes to roads, driveways, parking lots, and other high-traffic areas, asphalt is the preferred pavement option for a variety of reasons. For one, asphalt pavements are more affordable to install compared to alternatives such as concrete. The smooth texture of asphalt also provides a comfortable driving experience, reduces vehicle wear and tear, and minimises noise.
In addition, its dark and smooth finish is second to none in terms of aesthetic appeal, making it a popular pick for both homes and commercial properties. An asphalt driveway, for instance, can effortlessly enhance a property’s functionality, elevates its kerb appeal, and offers additional safety for pedestrians and motorists alike as well.
While a properly maintained asphalt pavement can last for a decade or even longer, it is inevitable that damage such as cracks and potholes may appear on its surface over time. This is usually caused by extreme weather conditions that cause the asphalt to expand and contract, high traffic volume, or simple wear and tear from aging.
When cracks or potholes start to appear on your driveway, it’s best to call on the asphalt paving and repairs experts over at Asphalt Services. We’ve been providing durable asphalt solutions in Dunedin and the Otago region for more than 20 years now, so you can count on us for quality craftsmanship every time.
To help you better understand how repairs for asphalt pavements are done, here are some methods commonly used in the repair and replacement of damaged asphalt.
1. Crack Filling
The method used in an asphalt repair job can often vary depending on the size of the crack or pothole. Crack filling is one of the simplest and most cost-effective of these repair methods, typically used in small cracks to prevent them from worsening. It involves filling cracks using a specialised sealant or asphalt emulsion.
This method is mostly suitable for non-working cracks, meaning cracks that don’t expand and contract significantly even in extreme temperatures and can thus be easier to repair. Even if the crack on your asphalt pavement or driveway looks small, having it filled promptly ensures that water won’t seep into your pavement’s base and lead to worse damage down the road.
2. Crack Sealing
Working cracks, meaning cracks that move when the temperature changes, require a more durable solution in the form of crack sealing. Crack sealing involves cleaning the crack, heating it to remove debris and moisture, and filling it with a hot rubberised sealant.
This method provides a watertight seal, allowing it to last for several years and thus reducing the need for frequent repairs. Crack sealing is the recommended repair method for roads and pavements in locations with significant temperature fluctuations.
3. Pothole Patching
Pothole patching addresses depressions caused by weakened base layers that may have been caused by water penetration and traffic load. There are three common ways to execute this repair method.
Throw-and-Go – Involves asphalt mix being shoveled into the pothole and compacted. This method is quick but less durable.
Semi-Permanent Patching – Requires cleaning the pothole, applying a tack coat for adhesion, filling it with hot mix asphalt, and compacting it. This provides a longer-lasting solution for your pothole issues.
Spray Injection Patching – Uses specialised machinery to clean the pothole, spray a tack coat, and inject a mix of asphalt and aggregate.
4. Overlay or Resurfacing
For cracks and potholes that are more widespread, an asphalt overlay or resurfacing may be needed. This requires thorough cleaning of the existing asphalt surface, prepping the cracks and potholes, then adding a new layer of asphalt over the existing surface. Resurfacing is a great way to rejuvenate your asphalt pavement’s look and extend its lifespan significantly, though it can be a more expensive option than individual repairs.
5. Full-Depth Patching
For more extensive pavement damage, however, a full-depth patching is your best option. Full-depth patching removes the damaged layers of asphalt and the underlying base, replacing them with new materials. While significantly more costly and labor-intensive, this method provides a long-term solution for pavements with severe structural issues such as alligator cracking. Full-depth patching is commonly used for roads or driveways with extensive or recurring damage.
6. Preventive Maintenance
Regular preventative maintenance is also an essential step in keeping your asphalt pavement free from cracks and potholes. Sealcoating, for instance, adds a protective layer that shields asphalt from UV rays, water, and oil spills, thus improving its durability and longevity. This can also restore your pavement’s dark colour, which helps maintain your property’s kerb appeal.
Scheduling regular inspections—particularly after bouts of extreme weather—can help identify minor issues before they worsen and become more expensive to repair in the future. In addition, clearing gutters and drainage systems can prevent pooling of water on pavements, which can usually cause cracks and potholes as well.
Through these methods, your asphalt pavement can remain functional, safe, and visually appealing, extending its lifespan by years and avoiding costly overhauls in the future. If you’re starting to notice any cracks or potholes on your asphalt driveway, don’t hesitate to contact Asphalt Services today and take advantage of our free site assessment. Our team of asphalt paving and repair experts can surely restore your asphalt pavement to its pristine condition.
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