With time, an asphalt driveway can get damaged due to constant use and harsh weather conditions. In return, this reflects on your property, making it look unattractive. Besides the unsightly appearance, it can also damage your car tires and pose a risk to visitors who can trip on the cracks or potholes and get injured. Like any other part of your property, your driveway needs routine maintenance to stay in great shape. So, how do you know it is time to call an asphalt paving contractor for repairs? Here are a few signs to watch out for.

Faded Color

One of the reasons asphalt is a common paving material is its clean, simple appearance. But as time goes by, constant use and exposure to the sun can make its black color fade to gray. Obviously, you want to maintain the appeal of your driveways or parking lots, ensuring they look their best. However, fading is more than an aesthetic issue. It also means that the pavement is old and brittle, making it susceptible to cracks and potholes. Regular sealcoating and strategic repairs can prevent further damage and restore your pavement to its initial appearance.

Potholes

One of the most apparent ways to know that your asphalt pavement has deteriorated is when you start noticing potholes. This is one of the most frustrating problems that drivers face. Potholes lead to flat tires, alignment issues, and other significant automobile issues. According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, more than 90% of parking areas have been surfaced with asphalt, likely because of its durability. However, when potholes start appearing, your once-durable asphalt becomes a concern for car owners. When you start noticing such damage, reach out to asphalt pavers and have the pavement restored.

Alligator Cracks

Alligator cracks are often shallow surface defects, but they can span a large area over your driveway or parking lot. The cracks may look like the skin of an alligator, hence the name alligator cracks. They are an eyesore that can also injure a passerby if they trip on the crack. Most of the time, they are caused by extreme weather conditions and need to be repaired as soon as they start appearing. The longer you ignore them, the worse they become. Contact asphalt paving professionals as soon as they begin appearing.

Drainage Issues

Excess moisture is one of the major threats to pavement that can lead to its deterioration. When water does not drain, it lingers on the surface and seeps between the concrete layers, affecting the binding agents. It is even worse if the pavement already has cracks, as the water can seep into the pavement even more easily. Eventually, this affects the integrity of your pavement and you end up having to deal with costly repairs. While small puddles may look like nothing to be concerned about, do not ignore them.

Warping

Another issue of concern in asphalt paving is warping. When your pavement starts showing signs of warping, undulating, or buckling, you need to repair it. Most of the time, warping is caused by an insufficient base or heavy vehicles. Get it fixed when you notice the problem. Otherwise, if you wait for the problem to escalate, you may have to replace the whole paved area.

Growing Cracks

When cracks appear, it is wise to repair them immediately. Sometimes, when the cracks are small, it may not be cause for alarm. However, if they are widening, do not ignore them. Anything wider than a 1/4 inch is cause for concern. With continuous use, a crack will continue widening and can turn into a pothole.

Stains

Stains are more common in parking lots than in residential driveways and they affect more than the appeal of your commercial property. Stains are caused by chemicals such as automotive fluids that are left behind by vehicles and other machines. When not cleaned up, they seep through cracks and weaken the binding agents, compromising your pavement. Once they have sunk into the pavement, they will continue expanding until you call repair services to address it.

Crumbling Edges

If a driveway or parking lot is not protected at the edges with concrete curbs or gutters, it is likely to develop this problem. It starts with a small section with a few pieces chipping away, and when not addressed, it continues expanding to larger areas. It is recommended that you do not leave the edges unprotected. However, when the problem starts, get asphalt pavers to come and fix it.

If you start noticing any of the above damage on your asphalt pavement, request repair services immediately. Early repair reduces costs, vehicle damage, and the risk of anyone getting injured.