Understanding asphalt patching and paving is critical to maintaining asphalt surfaces. Choosing the right method for your situation can be difficult, especially when weighing cost-effectiveness and longevity. Whether you’re dealing with cracks, potholes, or widespread deterioration, understanding your options and the differences between your options will get your asphalt surfaces back into good condition. Now, when should you patch, and when should you pave? Let’s lay that out for you.
What is Asphalt Patching?
Asphalt Patching is a cost-effective way to repair your asphalt pavement. Identifying localized damage such as potholes, cracks, and isolated areas of wear and tear. This process involves replacing just the affected areas with new asphalt, avoiding replacing the entirety of the parking lot.
Types of Asphalt Patch Repair
- Surface Patching – A temporary fix where we fill small potholes with asphalt. Ideal for very minor wear and tear.
- Infrared Asphalt Repair – Uses infrared technology to heat the existing asphalt, allowing it to be blended with new material for a seamless fix.
- Asphalt Mill Patching – This is when the damaged asphalt is removed and replaced with new asphalt. This is a more durable repair option.
- Full-Depth Patching – This involves completely removing the damaged asphalt, and in most cases the underlying base layers, and then replacing them with new materials. Solidifying the subgrade to fully support the new asphalt. This is the most permanent patching solution.
When to choose Asphalt Patching
- When cracks and potholes have formed but aren’t significant.
- As a temporary fix before a larger paving project.
- If budget constraints prevent full-scale paving.”
What is Asphalt Paving?
Asphalt paving is the process of installing a new asphalt surface, or completely replacing an existing one. It will provide a fresh, smooth, and long-lasting pavement. Making it the ideal choice for existing surfaces that have widespread damage.
Asphalt Overlay vs. Complete Repaving
- Asphalt Overlay – A new layer of asphalt is applied over the existing pavement. This is ideal if the base layer structure is still intact but the surface is worn out.
- Full-Depth Asphalt Paving—The old asphalt and the underlying layers are removed and replaced with new materials. This is the necessary option if structural issues are present.
When to Choose Asphalt Paving?
- If the base layer has become weakened, leading to constant structural issues and frequent patching.
- When cracks and potholes appear frequently despite repeated patching and maintenance.
- To enhance curb appeal and improve long-term performance.
- When it’s the only option to fit your budget
Key Takeaways:
- Patch small, and isolated damage to extend the lifespan of your existing pavement.
- Pave when damage is widespread or when the structural integrity of the pavement is compromised.
- Asphalt Overlay can be a solution for worn-out but structurally sound asphalt pavements.
Regular asphalt maintenance and timely repairs from McConnell & Associates will extend the life of your asphalt in the long run and save you money. However, whether you need asphalt patching or a complete asphalt replacement, MAC has you covered. Call us at (816) 942-6066 or check us out online at mcconnellassociates.org.
Also, check out our business listing for McConnell & Associates in the NKC Business Council.
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