A one-word answer to the question would have to be, “Immediately.” Potholes and cracks in asphalt allow water to seep beneath the pavement’s surface, eroding the foundation. To support traffic, asphalt pavement must have a solid, stable base. When damaged areas are left unrepaired, additional cracks spread from the pothole or initial crack. This often results in “alligatored” pavement, so named because the pattern formed by the cracks resembles the skin of an alligator. Once this happens, the pavement is damaged beyond the point of a quick or simple repair. Therefore, it is less expensive to repair damaged asphalt as soon as possible.
Although it is not always possible to effect immediate repairs, at the very least, cracks and potholes should be repaired in the spring or summer. This serves two purposes: to get the pavement ready for winter to prevent further damage from the freeze/thaw cycles and to allow the new asphalt time to cure and be ready for sealcoating the following spring.
Depending on the condition of the pavement and the extent of the damage, asphalt contractors typically use one of two repair methods — full depth or surface patching. Full-depth patching is the most extensive method. The surface of the damaged area is removed, sometimes as far as the sub-base. New sub-base may need to be installed, followed by a tack coat and new asphalt. Surface patching does not require the removal of the surface. Because the asphalt patch is merely layered over the damaged area (sort of like a bandage), this method should only be used if the surrounding pavement is in good condition.
Regardless of which method is chosen, the most important thing is to have the repair made as soon as possible. As a professional paving contractor in Austin, Alpha Paving have the experience and training to repair your asphalt pavement in the most effective manner at a competitive rate. We offer a full line of asphalt services, including routine maintenance services, repairs and installations. In addition to crack and pothole repair, we offer sandblasting, asphalt sealcoating and power washing services to help you protect your asphalt pavement. You can request a free quote online, or you can call us at (512) 677-9001. We provide our services to clients in the Austin metropolitan area and throughout Central Texas.
The premier asphalt contractor in Austin, Texas…Alpha Paving Industries!
