A Quick Review of Asphalt Repair Techniques

Many different asphalt repair techniques can be used to fix roads, pavements, parking lots or playgrounds. The method that your contractor uses will depend on the extent of damage. It is important to remember that when neglected, small cracks turn into potholes and these further deteriorate into craters that require complete surfacing. Timely asphalt patching and regular maintenance will reduce the risk of property damage and personal injury as well as lowering your repair costs.

Commonly-Used Asphalt Repair Techniques

• Crack sealing: Weather, age, wear and tear, as well as poor quality materials can cause cracks in your asphalt surfaces. Cracks may be filled using slurry seal, a hot mix asphalt sand mix or a hot-poured sealant. At American Asphalt, we recommend slurry seal, a rubberized emulsion that contains aggregates (crushed rocks), as it is more resilient and durable than the traditional fog seal. Medium and large cracks are cleaned before the asphalt emulsion is used.
• Throw-and-go asphalt patching: A temporary repair technique typically used in an emergency or during inclement weather— liquid asphalt is filled into a hole and then rolled over.
• Full-depth asphalt repairs: The area to be repaired is marked out (usually a rectangular-shaped patch) after which the damaged asphalt is removed using a back hoe, jack hammer or a Bobcat. At American Asphalt, we use a new, German-designed pavement profiler that grinds the asphalt for recycling purposes. In our experience, this is preferable over using a sawcat which leaves a smooth finish and can cause some slippage later on. Once the asphalt debris is removed, the loose base rock is compacted to achieve a hard surface. The depth of the patch is then measured to determine how much has to be replaced. Next, an asphalt base of at least 2 inches is laid down and rolled for compaction. The final stage involves the installation of the asphalt cap. To ensure sufficient compaction and depending on the depth of the area that is filled, the cap is typically 11/2 to 3 inches in height. In high traffic areas where a sealcoat or slurry seal is not being used, we add a sanded edge to prevent tracking and water intrusion, both of which help to improve surface life.

For Advanced Asphalt Repair Techniques Count on American Asphalt

We have the knowledge and experience to ensure that the right asphalt repair technique is used for your paved surfaces. Traffic patterns, weather conditions, etc. are taken into account before making our proprietary mixes. With great attention to detail, top quality materials and skilled workmanship, we reduce surface aging, resulting in substantial cost savings for you.
As a full-service paving company, we take care of all your paving requirements from new asphalt installation to repairs and maintenance. To ensure lasting quality, we handle every aspect of your project in-house, including ADA-compliant pavement painting. You can also take advantage of our maintenance programs to increase safety of your surfaces, reduce repair costs and limit your liabilities.

Customers across the Bay Area, including those in Hayward, San Jose, Fremont, Mountain View, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Milpitas, Pleasanton, Livermore, San Leandro, Newark, Union City, Gilroy, Palo Alto, Marin County, San Mateo, Burlingame, and Walnut Creek areas rely on our proven asphalt repair techniques for attractive and safe surfaces around their commercial properties.

Contact us to learn more about asphalt repair techniques. Call 800-541-5559 to inquire about our paving services.