Asphalt Driveway Repair: What to Expect
Asphalt driveway owners will know that natural wear and tear can eventually create cracks and potholes. It’s not that hard to repair small holes in your black top, as long as you have the right tools and techniques, but for more serious damage it is advised to call the professionals to do an asphalt driveway repair.
But when should you consider reparations and what exactly does an asphalt driveway repair entail? Read our concise guide to learn all you need to know about this topic.
When Should You Consider Asphalt Driveway Repair?
Ultimately, you should consider repairs and maintenance when your driveway shows any of the following types of damage:
- Pavement cracking, like block, transverse, fatigue, edge, or reflection cracking.
- Rutting.
- Corrugation.
- Potholes (large or small).
- Grade depression.
- When there is failure in patch installations.
- Pavement swells.
- Raveling.
- When the color changes from a rich black to a light gray.
What Exactly is an Asphalt Driveway Repair?
Whenever your driveway has any of the above-mentioned damages, asphalt repairs can correct the issue and ensure longevity. Regular maintenance and repairs will prevent minor damages from getting worse too.
What Kinds of Asphalt Repair Techniques Are There?
There are many different techniques used to repair asphalt. This will depend on the type of damage and state of your asphalt.
Different repair techniques include:
- Patching.
- Peel and pave.
- Full-depth repair and replace.
- Sealcoating.
- Striping.
- Asphalt crack filling.
- Milling and resurfacing.
We would like to focus on infrared asphalt repair because it is a cost-effective and efficient solution for critical but not major resurfacing and replacements.
What is Infrared Asphalt Repair?
Infrared asphalt repair is perfect for rough or uneven driving surfaces, potholes and pavement heaving. It uses a process in which the damaged asphalt is heated, then removed and replenished. Old asphalt from your driveway is mixed with new asphalt and then compacted.
Pros:
- Seamless repair.
- No risk of scaling or burning.
- Doesn’t separate aggregate from asphalt.
- Cost-effective because less tools and raw materials are needed.
Cons:
- Can’t be used to repair base problems.
- Not effective for deeper structural problems.
Tips to Find the Right Asphalt Repair Company
Wrong installations and asphalt repairs can result in higher costs and further damage. It’s therefore important that you choose the right repair company.
Here are a few tips you can follow to find the right professional:
- Research and referrals. A simple Google search is not always enough to find the right fit. Ask other asphalt driveway owners if they have any recommendations or consult local construction companies for referrals.
- Options. Put two to three companies on a short list.
- Reviews. Look at credible and verified online reviews on the companies in question.
- Get quotes. Compare quotes and pricing estimates. Remember, cheaper does not always mean better.
- Contact. Communicate with potential contractors either via email or phone. Ask loads of questions to make sure they will be able to give you great customer service and guide you through the process.
- Licensing and certifications. All companies who advertise asphalt repairs should have credible licensing and certifications to work as a contractor. You can request a copy or proof of the license directly from the company.
What to Expect From the Asphalt Repair Process
After the contractor has come to analyze your driveway and the quote has been confirmed and accepted, homeowners can expect the following steps in the repair process:
- Cleaning and preparing the repair area. If a contractor fails to successfully clean and prepare an area, the repair job will most likely be unsuccessful.
- Contractors start the repairing process by using the suitable method and raw materials. The leveling process should be completed with precision and care.
- Not a lot of time should pass between the prepping and repairing process. The area should remain as clean as possible and if the time lapse is too long, unwanted debris will end up back in the hole.