Asphalt Overlay: What is It and Who Needs It?

An asphalt overlay is a new mat of asphalt applied to an existing concrete or asphalt surface. Typically, an asphalt overlay is 2 inches in thickness. As a rule of thumb, asphalt overlays generally last 10-12 years.

Who Needs an Asphalt Overlay?

Asphalt overlays are needed when an existing surface starts to develop problems. The two main problems causing an asphalt overlay to be needed are:

• Cracking
• Uneven surfaces

Cracking

When existing asphalt surfaces start to develop cracks, water will enter the cracks and end up underneath the pavement. Once water is underneath a pavement it will cause the base of the pavement to weaken. In fact, water can cause areas of the base to completely fail, creating the need to excavate and replace failed areas prior to the asphalt overlay.

While you don’t need to undertake an asphalt overlay as soon as one or two cracks develop, once the cracking spreads throughout the pavement, it’s time to overlay. Base repairs are much more expensive than an asphalt overlay, which means you want to overlay before base repairs are needed.

Uneven Surfaces

An uneven surface is another way you’ll know if you need an asphalt overlay. An uneven surface can cause people to trip and fall. Injuries and lawsuits could potentially follow. In addition, an uneven surface will hold water. Water on a pavement can also be a potential hazard.

But the most significant problem with water on a pavement is in the winter. The water becomes ice, and as you might suspect, an accident waiting to happen. An asphalt overlay will level out any low or uneven areas creating a smooth, level surface.

If you have any questions as to whether you need an asphalt overlay, please contact us.