Warning Signs That Indicate Your Asphalt Paving Requires Immediate Repair

1. You see cracks or holes in your asphalt pavement: These are signs that water is seeping through, which can then freeze and cause further damage. If you catch these early, they can often be repaired with a sealant or patch. But if they're left to worsen, you may eventually need to replace the entire pavement.

2. The asphalt is uneven: This could be due to settling, tree roots, or poor drainage. Uneven asphalt is a trip hazard and can also lead to further damage down the road. It's best to have it repaired as soon as possible.

3. You see potholes: Potholes form when water seeps into cracks and then freezes, expanding and causing the asphalt to break apart. They can be repaired with a cold patch, but it's best to have them professionally filled to prevent further damage.

4. The edges are crumbling: This is called edge deterioration and it's caused by water and ice seeping under the pavement and causing it to crumble. It's important to repair this right away as it can lead to even more serious damage if left untreated.

5. The surface is loose: If you see sand or gravel on the surface of your asphalt, that means the binder that holds everything together is starting to break down. Once this happens, potholes and cracks will form much more easily. You'll need to have your asphalt resurfaced or replaced to fix the problem.

6. The color is fading: Asphalt will naturally fade over time, but if you notice it happening prematurely, it could be a sign of UV damage or poor quality asphalt. If your pavement is starting to look dull, it's time for a new coat of sealant.

7. There's an odor: If you notice a petroleum-like smell coming from your asphalt, it could be a sign that the surface is deteriorating. This is caused by exposure to oxygen and sunlight, which breaks down the asphalt binder. Once this happens, your pavement will become brittle and more susceptible to damage.

If you're noticing any of these signs, it's important to have your asphalt paving repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse and eventually lead to an expensive replacement project. But if you take care of it now, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and hassle down the road.

Does your asphalt pavement need repairs? Here are some signs that show your asphalt paving needs repairs now.