Professional asphalt contractors have the skills and resources to manage large-scale paving projects for commercial properties. They’ll also typically carry a paving contractor license and general liability insurance. Your parking lot and surface pavement are critical to your property’s appearance and the safety of visitors. It needs regular maintenance to stay attractive and usable.
Cracks and Potholes
Asphalt pavement has two layers: a smooth top layer and a bottom layer containing crushed stone or another aggregate. When these layers deteriorate, cracks or potholes form. While some of these problems are unavoidable, they can be mitigated by hiring a professional to perform regular maintenance and repairs.
Experts in asphalt paving Seattle mentioned that pavement damage can cause serious issues for anyone using your roadway or parking lot. It can damage vehicles, create pedestrian hazards, and increase liability risk. You can reduce costs and the risk of harm to those who use your property by requesting repair services immediately after noticing damaged areas.
When choosing a general asphalt contractor, look for one with highly trained and experienced employees. You should also check to see that their equipment is in good condition.
Alligator Cracking
Alligator cracking is an immediate sign of problems beneath the asphalt surface. The damage typically has a scaly alligator-like appearance and is often accompanied by rutting, which leaves a rough surface. Usually, the best action is to hire a professional to remove pavement sections with alligator cracking and rebuild the base. Repairing asphalt with fillers or patching can only be temporary and will likely cost you more in the long run.
Many factors can cause alligator cracking, including excessive moisture, poor drainage conditions, and temperature changes. If you notice any of these signs, contacting a paving contractor immediately is critical. Depending on the severity of your asphalt, you may need full-depth patching or BST overlay. An experienced contractor can evaluate the asphalt sub-base and recommend a repair method based on your needs and budget.
Warped Pavement
If your asphalt is starting to buckle and warp, it’s time to get a repair contractor on board. This is often a sign that the base underneath it has worn down and that heavy vehicles are stressing the surface. This type of shift can lead to cracks and potholes down the line.
A top asphalt contractor can show you photos of their previous work and provide testimonials from satisfied clients. They should also prioritize frequent and respectful communication with you throughout the process.
Temperature differences between the slab surface and the base beneath cause curling and warping. When the top layer tries to expand, it causes the bottom layer to contract, creating internal compressive stresses that can compromise pavement integrity and stability. If left untreated, this can lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs or replacement.
Cracked Foundation
Your home’s foundation is a huge investment, so it’s important to take care of it. Foundation cracks can lead to serious structural problems if left unattended. Repairing them as soon as you notice any signs of deterioration is critical.
Long horizontal cracks are a major red flag. They could indicate a problem with the soil underneath your foundation. They may also be caused by rebar folding or breaking. This occurs when builders place rebar in the concrete foundation during construction, but it needs to be properly compacted.
Sunken pavement is another sign it’s time to call an asphalt paving company. These divots and impressions appear when heavy loads, such as dumpsters or piles of construction materials, are parked on the pavement for extended periods. They can also result from water erosion or soil creep.
