Solutions to Common Asphalt Issues for a Durable Surface
Maintaining asphalt involves more than simply paving a surface and leaving it. Over time, various issues can crop up, compromising its durability and appearance. Whether you're a homeowner with a driveway or a business owner with a parking lot, understanding common asphalt issues and their solutions can save you time, money, and hassle.
Sealcoating your asphalt surface is often the first line of defense, especially in humid climates like Lakeland, FL. This detailed guide will address common asphalt problems and provide the most effective solutions to ensure your paved surfaces remain strong and visually appealing.
The Role of Sealcoating in Asphalt Maintenance
Before we dig into specific issues, it's essential to highlight the importance of sealcoating in maintaining asphalt longevity. Sealcoating is a preventive maintenance process that involves applying a protective layer over your asphalt surface.
When executed by professionals in Lakeland, FL, sealcoating offers the following benefits:
- Waterproofing the surface to prevent water infiltration.
- Protection against UV rays that can cause fading and cracking.
- Enhanced durability by shielding the surface from daily wear and tear.
- Improved appearance through a sleek, dark finish.
If you’ve been noticing problems with your asphalt, chances are a lack of proper sealcoating could be one of the culprits.
Common Asphalt Issues and Their Solutions
1. Cracks
Problem
Cracks are some of the most common issues with asphalt. They can develop due to weather changes, heavy traffic, or sub-base instability. Once cracks appear, they can expand quickly as water seeps in and weakens the foundation.
Solution
The best way to address cracks is to fill them as soon as possible. Polymeric crack fillers or hot rubberized crack sealants work effectively to seal the gaps. After repairing cracks, sealcoating the asphalt ensures additional protection against weathering and prevents new cracks from forming.
Tip: Regular inspections in Lakeland, FL’s climate can help you identify cracks early before they spread.
2. Potholes
Problem
Potholes form when water penetrates the surface, freezes, and later thaws, weakening the asphalt. With repeated stress, this process leads to surface collapses—creating hazardous dents in the pavement.
Solution
Pothole repair typically involves patching. Patching methods include cold patching for smaller potholes and hot mix asphalt for more significant damage. If potholes appear frequently, it’s a sign you need more than just patchwork; consider professional resurfacing for a long-term fix.
Sealcoating after patching provides an additional level of preservation to prevent further pothole formation.
3. Fading
Problem
Constant exposure to sunlight can cause asphalt to lose its color over time. UV rays break down the binding agents in the pavement, causing the surface to fade and become brittle.
Solution
Sealcoating protects asphalt from UV light, helping it maintain that fresh, dark finish. Professionals in Lakeland, FL recommend resealing asphalt every two to three years to combat fading and brittleness effectively.
4. Alligator Cracking
Problem
Alligator cracks look like a reptile's scaly skin and are caused by repeated stress on the asphalt. They usually result from a compromised foundation or sublayer beneath the pavement.
Solution
Unlike minor cracks, alligator cracking often signals deeper structural damage. Repairs involve removing the affected area, strengthening the sub-base, and repaving. Sealcoating afterward helps to protect the repaired area from future issues, ensuring a long-lasting surface.
5. Standing Water
Problem
Poor drainage can lead to water pooling on your asphalt surface. Over time, standing water can weaken the surface and create potholes or cracks.
Solution
Improving drainage systems is integral to solving this issue. Ensure that the pavement is appropriately sloped to direct water away. Sealcoating the surface also helps by creating a waterproof barrier, reducing the risk of water penetration.
6. Oil and Chemical Stains
Problem
Oil and other chemical stains not only degrade the visual appeal of asphalt but can also weaken its structural integrity over time.
Solution
Quickly addressing spills is key. Use degreasers or specialized asphalt cleaning agents to remove stains. Regular sealcoating in Lakeland, FL acts as a protective barrier, preventing chemicals from seeping into the pavement and causing long-term damage.
7. Edge Crumbling
Problem
If the edges of your asphalt begin to crumble, it could be due to insufficient support at the margins or vehicles frequently driving on them.
Solution
Rebuilding the edges and reinforcing them with curbing is often necessary. Sealcoating helps prevent future crumbling due to moisture infiltration and wear around the edges.
Why Professional Sealcoating Matters
Choosing a professional sealcoating service can make a significant difference in preventing many asphalt issues. DIY sealcoating often lacks the precision and durability achieved by experts.
Professionals in Lakeland, FL use high-quality materials, apply them evenly, and ensure the surface is prepped correctly for optimal results. By investing in a professional service, you’re extending the life of your pavement and avoiding costly repairs down the line.
How to Identify When Your Asphalt Needs Sealcoating
- Visible discoloration or fading.
- Appearance of small cracks or surface wear.
- An existing gap of over three years since the last treatment.
- Noticeable pooling of water on your surface.
If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s time to reach out to professionals in Lakeland, FL for an assessment.
Choosing the Right Sealcoating Partner
When it comes to protecting your asphalt, partnering with a trusted provider like A. Rafferty Paving & Construction makes all the difference. With extensive experience in sealcoating and asphalt maintenance in Lakeland, FL, we’re dedicated to delivering outstanding results.
Why Choose Us?
- Expertise You Can Trust
Our team has years of experience in sealcoating, crack repair, and asphalt resurfacing.
- Tailored Solutions
We assess your pavement's specific issues and recommend the best solutions for your needs.
- Customer Care
We’re committed to delivering exceptional service, ensuring your satisfaction with every project.
Get a Free Quote Today
Don’t wait for small problems to escalate into costly repairs. Shield your asphalt from wear and tear with professional sealcoating in Lakeland, FL.
Contact A. Rafferty Paving & Construction today for your free quote!
Final Thoughts
A well-maintained asphalt surface not only enhances the curb appeal of your property but also creates a safer, more reliable surface for vehicles and pedestrians. Common issues like cracking, potholes, and fading are inevitable, but addressing them promptly and proactively can make all the difference.
By incorporating regular sealcoating into your maintenance routine, you can prevent many of the damages that compromise asphalt quality. If you’re in Lakeland, FL, trust A. Rafferty Paving & Construction to deliver professional sealcoating services that keep your asphalt in peak condition.
