Oak Contracting
We are a fully-licensed paving company and our team of paving contractors are true professionals with years of experience. Is it time to repair your driveway or parking lot for a nicer look? We can take a busted up area of asphalt pavement, and make it look brand new! With decades of experience and a superior skill set, we have successfully tackled large paving projects such as public and private roads, hospital and mall parking lots, and car dealerships. Asphalt is a popular paving option, and we look forward to showing you all of its benefits.
request a free quote today!Asphalt is a popular choice for road construction and driveways due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. However, over time, asphalt surfaces can develop cracks, potholes, and other forms of damage. Proper asphalt repair is essential to maintain the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of these surfaces. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various asphalt repair techniques, provide valuable tips for homeowners and property managers, and discuss the associated costs.
Before delving into the methods of asphalt repair, it's crucial to understand the common types of damage that can occur:
Cracks:
Cracks are one of the most common issues with asphalt surfaces. They can develop due to weather fluctuations, heavy traffic, or inadequate asphalt mixtures.
Potholes:
Potholes are depressions in the asphalt surface caused by the expansion and contraction of moisture beneath the pavement. They often result from a combination of moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and heavy traffic.
Alligator Cracking: Alligator cracking resembles the scales of an alligator and typically indicates structural damage. It occurs due to a weakened base or subgrade, making it essential to address promptly.
Rutting:
Rutting is the formation of long, narrow depressions in the asphalt surface, often caused by the repeated passage of heavy vehicles.
Fading and Oxidation:
Over time, asphalt surfaces can lose their color and become faded and brittle due to exposure to sunlight and oxidation.
Before you start repairing your asphalt surface, gather the necessary tools and materials. Depending on the size and complexity of the repair, you may need:
Safety Gear:
Safety should always be a priority. Wear protective clothing, including gloves, safety glasses, and appropriate footwear.
Cleaning Equipment:
A broom or blower to remove debris and loose asphalt from the damaged area.
Crack Sealing Equipment:
For crack repair, you'll need a crack sealer or asphalt crack filler, which can be applied using a caulking gun or pour pot.
Patching Material: To fill potholes and larger cracks, you'll require an appropriate patching material. This can be cold patch asphalt, hot mix asphalt, or asphalt emulsion.
Compaction Equipment: A tamper or roller to compact the patching material properly.
Sealcoat:
For sealing and protecting the repaired asphalt surface, you'll need a sealcoat material. This is often available in liquid form and can be applied using a squeegee or brush.
Heating Equipment (for Hot Mix Asphalt):
If you're using hot mix asphalt for repairs, you'll need a heating source, such as an asphalt hot box or infrared heater.
The appropriate repair technique for your asphalt surface depends on the type and extent of damage. Here are some common asphalt repair methods:
Crack Sealing:
Cleaning:
Begin by cleaning the crack or fissure thoroughly using a wire brush or air compressor to remove dirt and debris.
Application:
Apply the crack sealer using a caulking gun or pour pot, ensuring that it fills the crack completely.
Smoothing: Smooth the surface with a putty knife or trowel, ensuring it is level with the surrounding asphalt.
Pothole Repair:
Cleaning: Clear the pothole of loose debris and water.
Filling:
Fill the pothole with an appropriate patching material, such as cold patch asphalt.
Compaction:
Compact the patching material with a tamper or roller to ensure it is level and well-packed.
Overlaying: Clean the entire surface and repair any cracks or potholes as needed.
Application:
Apply a new layer of hot mix asphalt or asphalt emulsion over the existing surface. This adds structural strength and improves the appearance of the asphalt.
Milling:
Milling involves removing the top layer of damaged asphalt before resurfacing. This is often done when the existing surface is severely deteriorated.
Application: After milling, a new layer of hot mix asphalt is applied and compacted to create a smooth, even surface.
Infrared Asphalt Repair: Infrared repair uses infrared heaters to heat the damaged asphalt, making it workable.
Rejuvenation:
After heating, the asphalt is rejuvenated with fresh material and then compacted to create a seamless repair.
Sealcoating: Clean the entire surface to remove dirt, oil, and debris.
Application:
Apply a layer of sealcoat using a squeegee or brush. This helps protect the asphalt from UV rays and moisture.
Achieving a successful asphalt repair requires careful planning and execution. Here are some tips to ensure your repairs are effective and long-lasting:
Address Issues Early:
Don't wait for small cracks to become major problems. Address them as soon as you notice them to prevent further damage.
Proper Surface Preparation:
Clean the damaged area thoroughly before applying any repair material. This ensures better adhesion and durability.
Choose the Right Materials:
Use high-quality repair materials that are appropriate for the specific type of damage you're addressing.
Follow Manufacturer Instructions:
Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for any repair products you use, including temperature and application guidelines.
Work in Suitable Weather:
Avoid repairing asphalt during rainy or extremely cold conditions, as it can affect the quality of the repair.
Proper Compaction:
Ensure that the repair material is properly compacted to eliminate air pockets and create a sturdy repair.
Sealcoat Regularly:
Apply sealcoat to your asphalt surface every few years to protect it from the elements and extend its lifespan.
Regular Maintenance:
Implement a routine maintenance plan, including crack sealing and pothole repair, to address issues as they arise.
The cost of asphalt repair can vary widely depending on several factors, including the extent of damage, the type of repair required, and local labor and material costs. Here's a general overview of the cost ranges for common asphalt repairs:
Crack Sealing:
Expect to pay approximately $0.50 to $3 per linear foot for crack sealing, depending on the crack's width and depth.
Pothole Repair:
The cost of pothole repair varies based on the size and depth of the pothole. Small potholes may cost $50 to $100 to repair, while larger ones can cost several hundred dollars.
Overlaying:
Overlaying existing asphalt with a new layer can cost between $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on factors like the thickness of the overlay and local labor rates.
Resurfacing:
The cost of asphalt resurfacing typically ranges from $2 to $4 per square foot. Milling may add an additional cost.
Infrared Asphalt Repair:
I
nfrared repairs are often more expensive, with costs ranging.