Asphalt is made to last, but it won’t last forever. Even though asphalt is durable, things like cracks, stains, and other types of damage can develop over time. Continue reading to learn how Carolina Asphalt can help maintain your commercial property.
7 Signs It’s Time for Asphalt Maintenance or Repair
If it’s been a while since you’ve either installed or performed maintenance on your asphalt, you might notice signs of deterioration like the ones below.
1. Standing Water & Other Drainage Issues
Asphalt should be installed with a functional drainage system. If you’ve noticed a lot of moisture, standing water or raveling (loss) of the surface materials, consult a pavement contractor about potential drainage problems. Ignoring puddles can and will lead to potholes and other damage.
2. Potholes
Not only are potholes a nuisance; they can be dangerous, especially on busy streets or in parking lots. Potholes typically form due to deteriorating asphalt, poor drainage, and heavy traffic. Fortunately, they can be repaired. However, it’s important to address the underlying issues that caused them in the first place.
3. Discoloration, Fading & Stains
Discolored or faded asphalt may be a sign of UV damage. Typically, asphalt is black in color. Anything lighter than that may indicate sun damage, which can cause potholes and cracks. Stains from oil and other chemicals can also affect your asphalt.
4. Crumbling Edges
Curbs facilitate drainage and keep your asphalt from crumbling and moving. If you don’t have curbs, factors like poor drainage and heavy traffic patterns can cause asphalt to crumble at the edges. The crumbling debris can be a hazard for drivers and pedestrians. Talk to a paving contractor about curb installation.
5. Alligator Cracks & Other Large Cracks
Alligator cracks look exactly how they sound—like the skin of an alligator. This web of cracks is typically caused by poor drainage, temperature changes, heavy traffic, and even the age of your asphalt. These areas need to be repaired with crack filling before they become larger and deteriorate the base below.
6. Buckling and Warping
An uneven surface is enough to raise eyebrows. Asphalt that looks wavy or warped isn’t normal and is usually caused by a compromised base or heavy traffic. A buckling surface can be leveled by repairing the base and asphalt.
7. Sinkage
Sinkage is not the same as potholes. A noticeable dip or low spot in your asphalt is usually a sign of sinkage, which is caused by issues like an eroded base or poor drainage. If you have a sinkage problem, it is best to address it quickly and identify the cause.
The Importance of Routine Asphalt Maintenance for North & South Carolina Pavements
Asphalt isn’t a one-and-done deal. As a commercial property owner, you should schedule routine asphalt maintenance every 3-5 years. This entails crack sealing, sealcoating, and any other asphalt repairs as needed.
Below is an example of an asphalt pavement maintenance schedule.
- Year1 : Sealcoating/Pavement Striping. Repairs should not be needed for many years.
- Year 2-4: Monitor pavement for changing conditions. Seal any large cracks that appear.
- Year 5: Crack filling/Sealcoating/Pavement Striping.
- Year 6-8: Monitor pavement for changing conditions. Seal any large cracks that appear.
- Year 9: Address any isolated repair areas and seal any large cracks. Re-Stripe as needed.
- Year 10 and beyond: Continue to address isolated repair areas and crack filling/sealcoating/pavement striping as needed depending on conditions.
With proper maintenance, you can extend the life of your asphalt. If you need assistance in planning your asphalt maintenance schedule, the team at Carolina Asphalt can help steer you in the right direction.
The Best Time of Year for Asphalt Repairs, Sealcoating, and Crack Sealing
Climates like North and South Carolina can experience seasonable highs and lows, so it’s smart to schedule your asphalt maintenance during favorable weather conditions. While summer is often considered the best time for asphalt maintenance, spring and fall are also good options.
Let Carolina Asphalt Help You With Asphalt Repairs & Maintenance Across the Carolinas
Maintaining the appearance of your commercial property should be a priority. After all, first impressions matter, and if your asphalt has seen better days, then it is time to call Carolina Asphalt.
Whether you have cracks, potholes or drainage issues, the team at Carolina Asphalt can help. We’re North and South Carolina’s trusted name for reliable concrete and asphalt repairs, maintenance, and installation. Give us a call and let’s talk about your project.
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