An asphalt parking lot can last anywhere between 20 – 30 years! Of course, this depends on professional installation and proper maintenance throughout the lifespan of the pavement.
There will also likely come a time when the asphalt starts to show signs of wear and tear. It might start fading, cracking, or deteriorating. These are all natural signs that your pavement is telling you it is time for either a repair or full replacement. Toste Construction is here to help you decide what is best for your pavement.
When To Repair
Not all parking lots are the same and repair can come in many forms. Depending on the needs of the pavement will determine the type of repair. Standard repairs include pothole repair, crack filling, and sealcoating.
Signs your pavement needs repaired includes:
- The rich black color has dissipated and the pavement is now a dull, gray color.
- Cracks have started to form, caused by heavy traffic load, weathering, drainage issues, or even poor material usage.
- Ruts will fill with water after it rains, these are caused by continual heavy loads driving over the surface.
- Raveling can happen after a snowplow drives over the asphalt.
Standard Repairs
Pothole Repair – Potholes are pesky holes that form within the asphalt when water finds its way below the surface. Typically repaired with a hot or cold patch material, pothole repair can help a business avoid costly liabilities in a cost-effective manner. If potholes are left unrepaired, they can multiply and become increasingly worse. This will also require a more significant repair job or complete replacement of the asphalt.
Crack Filling – Heavy vehicle traffic and weather patterns can cause cracking in the asphalt. When left unfilled, these cracks will allow rain and moisture to flow through the pavement. This will eventually erode the base materials, resulting in significant damage to the asphalt. Crack filler helps prevent moisture from making its way into the pavement and can save you significantly. Crack sealing is an integral component of an effective pavement preservation program.
Sealcoating – Sealcoating is the process of applying a thin layer of sealer to asphalt to replenish its binder and provides an essential barrier to moisture intrusion. This is typically done after cracks have been filled. Not only does the sealant protect against moisture, but also UV rays, chemicals, and salt. Sealcoating is a cost effective way to more than double the life of your asphalt while only spending pennies on the dollar.
When To Replace
Completely replacing an asphalt parking lot is no small task, or small price tag. However, sometimes a parking lot is beyond the point of repair and completely replacing it is the only option available. Replacement is typically recommended for asphalt that has a failing base. This could include underlying design, structural, sub-soil, or construction issues.
Of course your asphalt will look better with a repair, it is only temporary. You will quickly need to have the parking lot replaced, therefore wasting the time and funds on the “repair”. It might be a tough decision to replace the asphalt, but in the long-run, it will be worth it.
If your parking lot is not looking its best and is over 20 years old, it may be time for a complete replacement. Having a professional examine the pavement will help you identify what is best for your parking lot at this time. As always, having more than one opinion is a good idea, especially if they are recommending replacement.
Your Local Asphalt Expert
Toste Construction is available to assess your asphalt and provide you an estimate for any work that should be done. Whether you are in need of crack filling and sealcoat application or major repair, we can help. With over two decades experience, Toste can get the job done! Call our office to schedule a FREE estimate today.
Toste Construction specializes in sealcoating and crack filling to ensure you and your customers have a smooth surface to drive on. We are your Mooresville asphalt and pavement maintenance company. Our services include asphalt sealcoating, striping, patching, pothole repair and crack filling for both residential and commercial projects throughout western North Carolina.