Asphalt is a durable and long-lasting material often used for paving roads, driveways, and other surfaces. However, even the toughest asphalt surfaces can be damaged by harsh winter weather conditions such as snow, sleet, and freezing temperatures.
Suppose you have an asphalt surface on your property. In that case, it’s important to know the common repairs needed after winter weather to ensure your surface remains safe, attractive, and functional. Here are four common asphalt repairs that are often required after winter weather:
1. Potholes
One of the most common problems with asphalt surfaces after the winter weather is the formation of potholes. Potholes are caused when water seeps into cracks in the asphalt surface and then freezes and expands, causing the asphalt to crack and break away. The result is a large, bowl-shaped depression on the surface that can cause significant damage to vehicles and be a tripping hazard for pedestrians.
To repair potholes, the affected area must be cleaned, and the edges of the hole must be trimmed back to solid, stable asphalt. A patching material such as cold or hot asphalt mix is then applied to fill the hole and level off. The repair is then compacted with a roller to ensure a smooth surface.
2. Cracks
After the winter, cracks are another prevalent issue with asphalt surfaces. Cracks, like potholes, form when water penetrates a surface and freezes, expanding the asphalt and forming cracks. In contrast to potholes, which tend to be round, cracks can appear anywhere on the ground.
Damaged areas need to be cleaned before cracks can be fixed and debris can be removed. Afterward, you may either pour some crack filler into the crack and smooth it up with a squeegee or use a caulking gun to apply some crack sealer. Typically, the repair is left undisturbed for many hours or perhaps overnight so that the moisture can evaporate.
3. Edge Damage
Edge damage is a prevalent issue with asphalt surfaces after the winter. This results when snowplows, heavy snow, ice, or other elements cause damage to the asphalt surface’s edges, particularly around curbs or sidewalks. What’s left is a dangerously sharp and uneven edge that can be a tripping hazard and potentially harm cars if driven over.
In order to fix broken edges, it is necessary to clean the area and eliminate any stray objects. The damaged area is covered with a cold or hot asphalt mixture, and the restoration is smoothed and compacted with a roller. Finalizing the repair involves sealing the edge to prevent further wear and tear.
4. Ruts and Grooves
Ruts and grooves are other common problems with asphalt surfaces after the winter weather. Ruts are deep, trough-like depressions when heavy vehicles like trucks and buses drive over the surface. Grooves are shallow, linear depressions that occur when the surface is scraped by snowplows or other vehicles.
The affected area must be cleaned to repair ruts and grooves, and any loose debris must be removed. A cold or hot asphalt mix is applied to the damaged area, and the repair is leveled off and compacted with a roller. The repair should be finished by applying a sealant to protect the surface from further damage.
The effects of harsh winter weather on asphalt surfaces can be devastating. Still, with diligence in upkeep and repairs, you may extend your surface’s life and ensure that it remains secure, aesthetically pleasing, and functional for years to come. It’s crucial to act quickly when problems occur, whether potholes, cracks, edge damage, or ruts and grooves. Consider contacting a professional asphalt contractor if you feel uneasy about doing these fixes.
