Understanding Asphalt Pavement Deterioration
As asphalt pavement ages, it will inevitably suffer damages from leaking automotive fluids, exposure to the elements and the stress of numerous vehicles driving on it. If ignored, the damages will get worse. Cracks and potholes may form and let water penetrate beneath the pavement, where it can damage the base as well as cause even more damage to the pavement.
The Consequences of Ignoring Pavement Damage
Once the base is destabilized or the pavement suffers major damage, property owners usually have no alternative other than removing the pavement, rebuilding the base and replacing the asphalt.
However, there is a less costly option available if corrective action is taken before the base is damaged. It is called asphalt resurfacing or an asphalt overlay. This is a process in which the contractor applies a second layer of asphalt over the existing pavement.
Step-by-Step: How Asphalt Resurfacing Works
When an asphalt contractor is resurfacing pavement, the steps are typically as follows:
- Badly damaged areas are removed and patched.
- Low spots are filled and leveled.
- A primer is applied to provide a better bond between the new and existing asphalt.
- New hot-mix asphalt is applied.
- After the asphalt has cured, sealcoating and pavement markings can be applied.
When Asphalt Resurfacing Is Not the Right Choice
Resurfacing is an economical alternative to complete replacement of the pavement. However, it is not an ideal solution for all damaged pavement, including:
- Asphalt that has deteriorated so badly that it is crumbling.
- Pavement that has deep or numerous low spots.
- Asphalt that has numerous wide and/or long cracks.
- Pavement with obvious damage to the base or sub-base.
Why Proper Assessment Matters Before Resurfacing
If pavement with these problems is given an overlay, the new asphalt will attempt to conform to any uneven areas, such as low spots. Underlying cracks will continue to spread, and because the new asphalt is bonded to the old, the movement resulting from the spreading asphalt underneath will pull apart the new asphalt as well.
With crumbling pavement, the overlay will not halt the decay process; the new asphalt will not have the support it needs to be both strong and flexible, so cracks and potholes will typically form in a very short time.
However, if the pavement is not severely damaged or just needs a “facelift,” resurfacing is often the most cost-effective way to rejuvenate aging pavement. Properly installed, an overlay will look like new pavement and provide many years of use.
Choose Alpha Paving for Asphalt Resurfacing in Austin
Asphalt resurfacing in Austin is just one of the many services offered by Alpha Paving Industries. We also provide a full range of asphalt paving, maintenance and repair services, including line striping, sealcoating and installation of parking lot signs and car stops.
Our experienced crews provide outstanding results at reasonable rates. To request a free quote, you can submit our online form or call our office at 512-677-9001.
