Saturday, December 21, 2013

What You Should Know About Asphalt Patching

By Cornelia White


Asphalt is a popularly used material for the paving of driveways, parking lots and other surfaces. It is popular because of its high durability, strength and cost-effectiveness. However, for this material to last for a long time, it has to be properly maintained. Asphalt patching is one of the maintenance activities that must be done from time to time by property owners.

Patching is usually necessary on areas of pavement that have developed potholes. Potholes are created when water gets into the parts of your pavement that are not properly sealed. Further damage is done when the water freezes because the crack will be enlarged. When the weather gets warmer and the ice melts, a void will be left behind and the surrounding paving will fall in.

The procedure for asphalt patching is not really complex. It is performed simply by filling the bad portions with a cold or a hot mixture of the material. The appropriate type of mixture is determined by the location of the site or the time of the year. Part of the immediate area will have to be taken off so the repair work will be more effective.

It is advisable to patch holes as soon as they are discovered because water can get in and cause more damage. The starting point is the removal of any dislodged or crumbled material. A vacuum will then be used to suck up all the dirt on the surface. After the area is properly cleaned, the asphalt mix will then be poured in.

The property owner has to know what this project will cost before the work commences. The rate that you will receive will be dependent on the level of damage to be repaired and where the site is located as well. You can obtain estimates from some companies so as to make comparison. You can reduce your costs by hiring a contractor that is not far from the site.

Prior to beginning the project, the exact condition of the driveway must be determined. If a substantial portion has crumbled, it is a sign that water has seeped underneath and the gravel is being eroded. If the affected area is too large, your contractor may advise you to replace the whole driveway. If the crumbly portion is small, the gravel can be re-compacted before patching is done.

Choosing the right contractor is vital if you want this job to be correctly done. It should not be difficult to find a company that offers this service in your local area. If you ask other people with similar properties, they should be able to give you the contact details of the service providers that they know.

Asphalt patching helps you to protect your investment in property. If you presently have a maintenance contract with a company that is reputable, then there is likelihood that your parking lot or driveway will last for long. Seal coating will be regularly applied. In addition, routine checks will be carried out to point out areas that show signs of wear and tear and they will be immediately fixed.




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