How long has it been since you last had your parking lot or driveway paved? If it’s been about 20 years and you’re starting to notice more and cracks, our Southeastern Michigan asphalt contractors suggest it might be time to replace the old pavement.
The can be cut short by heavy traffic, freeze-thaw cycles, and even UV rays. Given asphalt maintenance and repairs, there’s no reason why your new asphalt surface shouldn’t last up to 20 years.
Here are 4 signs you need to consider asphalt pavement replacement in the near future.
Asphalt May Need to Be Replaced If There Are:
1. Alligator Cracks
Like the name suggests, resembles the scaly hide of an alligator. Whether the alligator cracking is isolated to a specific area or is a widespread issue, you’ll need to contact our asphalt paving contractors. Alligator cracking is usually a sign that the foundation of your parking lot or driveway is deteriorating. Foundations usually fail when water is allowed to seep into the foundation to cause lasting structural damage.
2. Potholes
Potholes are often the result of cracks that were left unrepaired the previous season. Asasphalt contracts, cracks widen and allow water to seep underneath the paved surface. Once the temperature drops, this trapped water expands as it freezes. When the temperature rises, the ice melts and leaves behind an empty space beneath the weakened surface of your parking lot or driveway. At this point, all it takes is the weight of a vehicle to make the weakened surface collapse and form a pothole.
As soon as you notice potholes in your asphalt surface, you’ll need to call our team of asphalt repair contractors. Large potholes can not only damage vehicles and be hazardous for pedestrians, but can also decrease the number of usable parking spaces in your lot. To keep your parking lot functional, you’ll need the expertise of an asphalt contractor. If there are large potholes throughout your parking lot, this could indicate a failing asphalt foundation that needs to be replaced.
3. Standing Water
Standing water is never a good sign in a commercial asphalt parking lot because it means you have a drainage problem. Deep cracks and potholes can trap water before it has a chance to properly drain, causing damage to the foundation of your asphalt parking lot or driveway.
Freeze-thaw cycles can create even more damage when water is trapped underneath the surface. If there are still puddles in your parking lot a few days after it rains, you’ll need to to inspect for water damage. Significant water damage to the foundation can shorten its life expectancy.
4. Spots of Faded Color
Asphalt pavement is supposed to be a rich black color. However, over the years, UV rays from the sun can cause the surface of your pavement to fade. While faded asphalt pavement may not seem like a big deal, it could indicate larger problems. Over time, UV rays can weaken your asphalt pavement, making it more vulnerable to potholes and cracks. If your asphalt surface has turned gray and is showing other , you may want to consult with an asphalt contractor to see if replacement is necessary.
Want a Free Quote?
If you are interested in our asphalt paving services, please feel free to call our asphalt contractors in Southeast Michigan at (248) 625-9581 or contact us online. Whether you need commercial asphalt paving or sealcoating, you can count on our crew to always produce quality results. We are proud to serve the areas of Clarkston, Brighton/Howell, Milford, Lapeer, and beyond.
This blog post has been updated.