Types of Asphalt Damage That Needs Repaired Immediately

While it is easy to overlook the condition of the asphalt pavement in your driveway or business parking lot, you really need to start taking it more seriously.  Did you know that your driveway, if professionally installed, should be lasting you upwards of 20 years?  This, however, doesn't come without paying attention to some important details and talking to the experts in repair and asphalt paving in Austin, TX to learn more.

Why do I need to maintain my asphalt?

General maintenance of your asphalt pavement is important, and some damages need to be repaired immediately. Why? Mainly because these seemingly minor, and easily overlooked, issues can cause some major problems if they are not tended to ASAP. Failing to provide the proper care and attention to your driveway will cause it to deteriorate at a quick rate, reducing its life span greatly. Below are some of the major damages that will need immediate asphalt repairs.

Four Types of Damages That Require Immediate Asphalt Repairs

Oxidation

Something to keep in mind when you have asphalt laid, it begins to oxidize to the air and sun immediately. These influences will break down the asphalt mixture binders down, when this happens, you will have hairline cracks that form. This may not seem like a major issue now, but over time, these cracks enlarge and become gaps and potholes.

Dulled Coloring

This isn't the only effect of oxidation; the visual representation of the asphalt is dulled. However, there is a simple solution/preventative for this. Having your driveway, parking lot, or any asphalt pavement professionally seal coated will brighten the black, fill the cracks, and protect it from dangerous oxidation. This is one of the asphalt repairs that you can do before there is real damage. It is a process that needs to be repeated every 4-5 years, depending on weather conditions.

Edge Cracking & Crumbling

When asphalt driveways are installed, if the crew that does it is not experienced, professional, or hardworking, they are sometimes installed without proper support for the edges. When this happens, over time, the edges will crack and crumble. This will lead to chunks falling off, cracks forming in patterns around the edges, and visual disgust.

Surface Deterioration

Chemicals, oxidation, and general abuse of the pavement will cause it to deteriorate over time. Chemicals alone can soften and disintegrate your asphalt calling for immediate asphalt repairs. To prevent this, sealcoat and regularly clean your driveway.

These are some of the reasons why you need to keep up with the maintenance of your asphalt surfaces.  When you need professionals to perform repairs or asphalt paving in Austin, TX, contact M Carroll Blacktop to hear how we can help today.