Scorpion Construction LLC

Mar 5, 2021
You are currently viewing The Top 4 Asphalt Patching Mistakes To Avoid

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A professionally installed asphalt pavement enhances the curb appeal of your property. When installed properly, it also decreases maintenance costs and increases the pavement lifetime.

On the other hand, inadequate asphalt paving methods usually result in serious damages and issues down the line. These problems can end up costing you a significant amount of time and money as you search frantically for repair and maintenance options.

While asphalt is an ideal paving material due to its low price yet sturdy results, you might still find major gaps and cracks in its surface after some time has elapsed. If this is what troubles you, then look no further!

Get your asphalt back to optimal condition by using practical asphalt patching techniques. However, make sure to keep the following pointers in mind to avoid making any mistakes in the process.

1. The Hot Patch

You should always consider a hot patch when repairing a pothole. This procedure will require some time and effort, but its results last longer than a cold patch.

Completing a hot patch renovation involves cutting out the entire damaged section of your pavement, usually in a square, and then re-using it to form a “hot patch.”

2. Leaving Debris

Since asphalt patches adhere to the surface you pump them onto, it’s important to sweep up any loose debris and carve out as many square edges as possible before patching. Otherwise, the patch may move and crack as the debris shifts and crumbles.

Moreover, when filling holes in asphalt, you must use a shovel or similar tool to shape it as square as possible. Then, before mixing, make sure to scoop off any leftover asphalt debris for maximum efficiency.

3. Once Is Not Always Enough!

A typical mistake we often make is to assume that when a hole has been filled once, the job is complete. In reality, a one-time pouring is usually not enough, as the asphalt substance is likely to sink or expand. In areas where seasons vary in temperatures and weather, ranging from tropical storms to ice and snow, a hole should be filled at least twice.

Remember, a patch is just a quick fix, and cracks in the asphalt will continuously reappear until its surface is completely repaved.

4. Forgetting to Compact the Base

Before pouring an asphalt patch, a good practice is to compact the source of a crack or hole as much as possible. This can be done with a steel tamper, which flattens and levels the exposed ground; tamping usually leaves the surface almost solid after the procedure. If this is not the case, you may need to pour and compress a layer of crushed stone or sand into the hole before pouring the patch, and then tamp it down again.

In conclusion, you should understand that not all asphalt patching projects are easy. For large holes or cracks varying in shape or size, or for particularly deep holes, it will be in your best interest to contact a professional paving contractor, which will guarantee that the job is done precisely and correctly.

Scorpion Construction LLC is a top-rated paving company in Tampa Bay, FL. Our professionals guarantee efficient asphalt repairs that prevent premature deterioration! Get an estimate today!