10 Common Asphalt Problems and How to Solve Them

1. Cracks: The Early Warning Sign

Cracks are one of the most common issues affecting asphalt surfaces. They form due to age, weather changes, and heavy traffic. Cracks allow water to seep into the asphalt, weakening its foundation and leading to further damage like potholes.

Solution:
The best approach to managing cracks is to address them early. Use crack sealing or filling techniques with high-quality, flexible materials designed to expand and contract with the asphalt. For minor cracks, crack filler products are ideal. For larger cracks, professional crack sealing with hot rubberized material ensures long-lasting results. Regular sealcoating also helps prevent cracks from forming by creating a protective barrier.

2. Potholes: A Hazard for Drivers

Potholes are larger depressions in asphalt caused by water infiltration and repeated freeze-thaw cycles. They not only damage vehicles but also pose safety risks for pedestrians. Potholes typically develop when small cracks go unrepaired and moisture erodes the asphalt base.

Solution:
Repairing potholes promptly is critical. Cold patch asphalt is a temporary fix, but for long-term durability, hot asphalt patching is recommended. This involves cleaning the damaged area, applying a tack coat, and filling it with new asphalt compacted for stability. Regular crack sealing and sealcoating can prevent potholes by addressing the underlying issues before they worsen.

3. Alligator Cracking: A Structural Problem

Alligator cracking, also known as fatigue cracking, appears as a series of interconnected cracks resembling alligator skin. This problem indicates structural failure caused by a weakened foundation, heavy loads, or insufficient pavement thickness.

Solution:
Unfortunately, alligator cracking cannot be repaired with surface treatments alone. The best solution is to remove the affected area and reconstruct the pavement, addressing any underlying base or subgrade issues. This process ensures the foundation is strong enough to support traffic loads. Preventive measures like proper drainage and routine sealcoating help reduce the risk of alligator cracking.

4. Raveling: Surface Deterioration

Raveling occurs when the top layer of asphalt begins to break apart, leaving loose aggregate and an uneven surface. It’s often caused by poor compaction during installation, aging, or exposure to harsh weather.

Solution:
For minor raveling, applying a slurry seal or micro-surfacing can restore the surface and protect it from further damage. For more severe raveling, the affected area may need to be milled and overlaid with fresh asphalt. Regular sealcoating helps protect against raveling by shielding the asphalt from weather and wear.

5. Drainage Problems: The Silent Asphalt Killer

Poor drainage can lead to standing water on your asphalt surface, which accelerates deterioration by weakening the base and causing cracks and potholes. Common signs include water pooling after rain or uneven surfaces.

Solution:
The first step is to identify the source of the drainage problem. Solutions may include regrading the asphalt to improve slope, installing drainage systems like French drains, or adding curbs and gutters. Proper maintenance, such as sealcoating and crack repair, can also help prevent water from seeping into the asphalt and causing damage.

How Timely Maintenance Prevents Escalating Asphalt Problems

Addressing asphalt issues as soon as they arise is the key to preventing minor problems from turning into costly repairs. Cracks, potholes, and other surface damage often begin small but can quickly worsen due to water infiltration, weather changes, and traffic. Regular maintenance, such as sealcoating, crack filling, and proper drainage management, helps extend the life of your asphalt by protecting it from further deterioration. By catching problems early and investing in preventative measures, you can save money, enhance safety, and maintain the visual appeal of your pavement for years to come.

6. Depressions and Low Spots: Uneven Surfaces

Depressions, or low spots, in asphalt surfaces occur when the base layer is improperly compacted or when heavy vehicles consistently park in the same area. These depressions often collect water, leading to faster deterioration and potential safety hazards.

Solution:
For minor depressions, applying a surface patch can level the area and restore functionality. However, for larger or recurring low spots, the underlying issue must be addressed. This involves removing the asphalt, repairing or compacting the base layer, and reapplying new asphalt. Ensuring proper base preparation during initial installation is key to preventing depressions in the future.

7. Edge Cracks: Weak Pavement Borders

Edge cracks typically form along the edges of asphalt surfaces where the pavement meets softer materials like grass or soil. These cracks are often caused by insufficient support at the edges or heavy loads near the border.

Solution:
Repair edge cracks by filling them with crack sealant or hot rubberized material to prevent water infiltration. For long-term stability, reinforce the edges with compacted aggregate or install curbs to provide additional support. Avoid driving heavy vehicles near the edges to reduce stress on the pavement. Regular maintenance, including sealcoating, can also strengthen the edges against future damage.

8. Block Cracking: Aging Asphalt

Block cracking appears as large, rectangular cracks that form in a grid-like pattern. This issue is usually caused by asphalt shrinkage due to aging, improper mixing during installation, or extreme temperature fluctuations.

Solution:
For minor block cracking, sealcoating or crack filling can prevent further damage. However, if the cracks are widespread, the affected area may need to be resurfaced with an overlay or completely replaced. To prevent block cracking, ensure proper asphalt installation and use sealcoating to keep the surface flexible and protected.

9. Asphalt Upheaval: Base Layer Movement

Upheaval occurs when the asphalt surface rises due to pressure from below, often caused by water freezing in the subgrade or tree roots pushing through the pavement. This creates an uneven, hazardous surface that can damage vehicles and pose safety risks.

Solution:
Addressing asphalt upheaval involves identifying and resolving the root cause. If water infiltration is the issue, install proper drainage systems to redirect water away from the subgrade. For tree root problems, the roots may need to be removed, and the area regraded before applying new asphalt. Preventative measures like proper subgrade preparation and sealcoating can help reduce the risk of upheaval.

10. Fading and Discoloration: Loss of Curb Appeal

Over time, exposure to sunlight, rain, and chemicals can cause asphalt to lose its rich, dark color and become faded or discolored. While this may not immediately impact the structural integrity of the pavement, it diminishes curb appeal and can make your property look neglected.

Solution:
Sealcoating is the best solution for restoring the deep black appearance of your asphalt while providing a layer of protection against UV rays and chemical spills. Regular sealcoating every 2-3 years can prevent fading and keep your pavement looking fresh and professional. Maintaining cleanliness by removing debris, oil stains, and standing water also helps preserve its appearance.