There are a lot of reasons why asphalt surfaces start to wear down: structural issues, environmental factors, heavy use and old age. An experienced contractor can help you sort through asphalt repair solutions to find one that’s right for the job, helping determine if a small patch will do the trick or if you’re looking at a larger overhaul.
Even more importantly, the right paving contractor will help address any underlying issues causing asphalt damage. Many common asphalt problems have visible symptoms, but the root of the problem is often hidden from view. Don’t let a simple fix now lead to more headaches down the road.
Common Asphalt Problems
From natural weathering to overzealous snow plows, your asphalt parking lot or other paved areas have likely seen better days. For each of these common problems, there are asphalt repair solutions that can help you fix the damage.
› Discoloration
Has your asphalt surface lost its luster? Over time, even a relatively well-maintained parking lot will start to fade and see natural UV damage. Luckily, this type of problem doesn’t need a structural fix. Asphalt sealcoating can bring back the dark, rich color you’re looking for while adding a new layer of protection that can last years.
› Damaged Curbs
A curb around the edge of your lot can become cracked or broken, especially when a vehicle hits it and it’s not properly backfilled. Once this happens, the curb may no longer be able to do its job managing water runoff or protecting landscaping. Or maybe it just looks bad! The good news is that you can install a new curb (and in a new style, if you like) without having to redo your entire surface.
› Ruts
When you start to see ruts on popular vehicle routes, it’s time to reevaluate your surface. A thicker layer of asphalt could be in order, and your sub-surface may need to be compacted. It’s likely this step was neglected during the original paving process. Depending on the extent of the issue, you could be looking at excavating the surface and repaving with new asphalt to get a long-term fix that doesn’t repeat itself.
› Cracks
There are many different types of cracks that can plague a paved surface. Sometimes they can be slowed or stopped with surface patching, but more widespread cracking is likely to repeat itself over and over—even with a new overlay. That’s why we’re fans of Perma Flex, the perfect asphalt repair solution for large, damaged surfaces when you want to stop reflective cracking.
› Potholes & Heaving
If you start to notice very uneven surfaces, that’s a tell-tale sign that you’re dealing with water issues underneath your asphalt pavement. When winter rolls around, water that’s accumulated under the surface will freeze and expand, causing heaving. As a result, the asphalt can give out and form potholes. Drainage problems, unfortunately, can’t often be solved in the long term by patch repairs, so a more extensive repair might be needed to properly install drainage solutions.
› Disintegration
Asphalt has a lifespan of around 10-12 years when it’s correctly maintained. Surface deterioration and loose gravel can indicate that your time is running out, especially when you also start to see cracking around the edges and patch repairs giving out. If it’s been about a decade since your asphalt surface was paved, it’s likely time to start anew. Our team can help you decide if repaving is necessary.
Asphalt Repair Solutions in St. Louis
Ford Asphalt Company offers a wide range of asphalt repair services in and around St. Louis. We have helped commercial properties address common problems for more than forty years, whether you have damage to fix or want help keeping your surface maintained.
We’d be happy to talk with you about any issues you’re having with your asphalt surface and come up with a project plan that meets your needs and protects your investment. Request a proposal today!
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