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Key Takeaways:

1. Asphalt is a popular paving material for surfaces like roads and driveways because it is durable and long-lasting.
2. Over time, asphalt can develop cracks and other defects that must be repaired. The most common are alligator cracking, transverse or linear cracking, edge cracking, block cracking, corrugations, bleeding, and potholes.
3. Asphalt pavement should be regularly inspected for damage and cracks. It is also vital to sealcoat every two to three years and fills any cracks immediately.
4. Snow and ice should be removed with sand or salt instead of shovels or plows. Oversized vehicles should not be parked in one spot for an extended period, as this can lead to uneven settling.

Asphalt is one of the most popular materials for making level surfaces like roads, driveways, and parking lots. It’s so popular that more than 94% of US paved roads use asphalt as the primary paving material. It’s durable, long-lasting, and can handle a lot of wear and tear.

Asphalt can develop defects over time that need to be repaired. Paradise Pavement Maintenance discusses the most common pavement defects and how to fix them. We’ll also provide tips on keeping your asphalt pavement in good condition.

Major Asphalt Pavement Problems to be Aware of

Over time asphalt driveways and parking lots are susceptible to damage. These pavement problems can become a nuisance for property owners, creating safety hazards and tarnishing the property’s curb appeal. Here are the major asphalt pavement problems that can occur:

1. Alligator Cracking

This is characterized by a network of cracks that resemble an alligator’s scales. It occurs when the underlying base or subbase fails and causes the asphalt surface to shift and become unstable. Alligator cracking is typically caused by using a weak subbase or the pavement not being thick enough for the amount of vehicle traffic it receives.

Solution

Alligator cracking can be addressed by using a combination of pavement patching and resurfacing to strengthen the underlying base. The affected area must have its surface layer removed, then patched with asphalt mix, followed by installing an asphalt overlay. It’s best to consult with a professional asphalt contractor first and hire them to do the job.

2. Transverse or Linear Cracking

Linear cracking, also called longitudinal or linear, appears along pavement joints. When construction workers lay asphalt across large surfaces, they generally do so in strips or sections. Suppose the connecting points between sections are not made correctly. In that case, cracks will form over time due to temperature changes and water exposure. It can cause the sections to separate, eventually allowing water to enter and corrode the pavement’s surface.

Solution

Maintaining good drainage and filling any cracks with a mixture of asphalt and sand or emulsion slurry is crucial to avoid water damage.

3. Edge Cracking

There are usually two reasons for edge cracking in asphalt: low structural integrity and poor drainage. Also, when vehicles regularly drive on the pavement’s edge, it causes further strain and contributes to cracking. It can also be caused when the asphalt mix isn’t thick or too thin.

Solution

To solve this problem, you should fill existing cracks with a mixture of asphalt emulsion and sand. Add extra base material along the edges so your surface remains level and can bear heavy traffic.

4. Block Cracking

Two to three years after you install your asphalt pavement, you may start to see cracks that appear in squares or circles. These block cracks occur when the mix is too dry or old.

Solution

Unlike other cracks, block cracks do not go into the sub-layers. As a result, thin overlays or surface treatment can fix these kinds of cracks and help prevent them from happening.

5. Corrugations

It occurs when the pavement forms a bump on the surface. It happens when the pavement has settled unevenly and worsens over time, leading to excessive tire wear. The primary reason is using incorrect material for creating an asphalt driveway or parking lot.

Solution

We recommend full-depth patching of affected areas to fix the issue.

6. Bleeding

Ever wonder why your asphalt driveway or parking lot sometimes has a thin layer of oil that comes out when a car drives over it? It is called bleeding, which happens when there’s too much binder in the pavement. The excess binder makes the surface slick and dangerous to drive.

Solution

For a quick fix, you could spread sand over the road surface to absorb the binder or get a professional to power-wash the area. Sometimes, you may need to re-apply asphalt to fix the problem in your asphalt driveway or parking lot.

7. Potholes

Potholes are more than just an annoyance; they can represent a severe hazard. They occur when water seeps into cracks in the pavement and causes the asphalt to erode. However, other factors can cause them as well. As the name suggests, they form large holes in the asphalt, which can be hazardous for cars. Every year US drivers suffer billions worth of damages due to them.

If you’re dealing with potholes on your property, taking care of them as soon as possible is essential.

Solution

The most effective way to fix a pothole is to cut out the damaged asphalt and replace it with fresh material. You’ll also need to ensure that any underlying problems, such as water infiltration or drainage issues, are addressed before you start repairs. Contact an asphalt contractor to help with the job.

Asphalt Maintenance Tips

Asphalt Pavement problems can be a real hassle. Still, through proper maintenance, you can prolong the life of your pavement and avoid costly repairs. Here’s what we recommend for maintaining your asphalt driveways and parking lots.

1. Regularly inspect for cracks, potholes, and other damage. As soon as you notice a problem area, address it promptly.
2. Seal coat your asphalt every two to three years. It helps protect the pavement from water infiltration and UV damage.
3. Fill cracks immediately with a crack filler or sealant to prevent further damage from occurring.
4. Keep drains free of debris, leaves, and other materials that can clog them up and cause water to pool on your asphalt surface.
5. When snow and ice accumulate on the pavement surface, use sand or salt to help melt it away instead of relying solely on shovels and plows for removal.
6. Avoid large parking vehicles in one spot for an extended period, leading to uneven settling.

Related: How Often Do You Need Asphalt Paving, Repair & Maintenance Services?

Conclusion

Asphalt pavement needs to be checked and serviced regularly to ensure its durability. By doing so, you avoid future costly repairs or replacements. When choosing an asphalt paving contractor, find a reliable professional who will do the job well. 

Looking for the best asphalt paving, repair, and maintenance services in Overland Park, KS? Look no further than Paradise Pavement Maintenance! We follow the best practices and are one of Kansas’s most renowned asphalt paving contractors. Get in touch for a free estimate today.

Key Takeaways:

1. The six most common concrete pavement issues are scaling, spalling, curling, cracking, blistering/flaking, and crazing.
2. Resurfacing the concrete surface is the most effective way to fix scaling. Applying an epoxy modifier is the best way to fix spalling.
3. Hiring a specialist and applying a curing compound after pouring is recommended to address the curling issue. For cracks in concrete pavements, licensed contractors can use crack injection or saw cutting and sealing, among other techniques.
4. Blistering or flaking can be fixed by resurfacing the concrete, while crazing usually requires grinding and sealing.
5. Proper maintenance is necessary for prolonging concrete paving lifespan, which includes prioritizing proper curing (2 days), regular cleaning, and regular inspecting (every 3-6 months).

Have you ever wondered what it takes to get that perfect driveway or entranceway? From big box stores to private driveways, having a well-maintained and durable concrete surface can give any space a lovely touch and add value.

Although concrete assets offer numerous benefits, they aren’t perfect. Overtime defects can surface on these surfaces, requiring an expert touch to fix them. Paradise Pavement Maintenancewill focus on six defects found in the rigid pavement. We’ll also explore how to fix these issues and discuss the preventative measures to prevent these issues from occurring. So read on to have level and defect-free concrete paving for a long time.

Most Common Concrete Pavement Issues

Concrete is durable, sturdy, and versatile, making it a perfect construction material so much that it’s the second most used after water. However, it’s far from perfect. Due to the effects of weather, time, and wear and tear, concrete pavements can sometimes develop defects. Here are a few most common concrete pavement issues that can occur:

1. Scaling

Concrete scaling is the near-surface concrete flaking or peeling off due to freezing, thawing, and other environmental factors. The mixture may also scale because of low-strength concrete, deicing salts, and a high water-cement ratio. Small patches develop first but will join larger areas if not repaired promptly.

How to Fix them?

The most effective and recommended repair technique is resurfacing the concrete surface. Hiring professional contractors to handle concrete paving is best.

2. Spalling

This defect occurs when moisture penetrates the surface and causes it to break off in pieces due to freezing or thawing cycles. The spalled area usually looks like a bowl-shaped depression, with chipped edges flaking away from the rest of the slab.

How to Fix them?

Applying an epoxy modifier on top of the spalled area is the best way of fixing the issue, which will fill in any gaps and create a new smooth surface.

3. Curling

This defect occurs when the edges of a slab curl up due to temperature or moisture changes. The slabs will resemble waves and sometimes even appear to be breaking away from each other. Curling in concrete slabs is caused by surface and base moisture or temperature discrepancies. There are two types of curling — upward and downward. When the top dries and cools before the bottom, it shrinks, causing upward curling. The opposite happens when the bottom surface shrinks due to high temperatures and exposure to moisture. It then leads to downward curling.

How to Fix them?

It’s recommended that moisture in the slab be addressed to fix the concrete paving issues. Immediately after pouring, a curing compound should be applied to ensure that the concrete is adequately sealed and doesn’t absorb any more moisture. Additionally, regular maintenance such as sealing, joint repair, and patching can help manage moisture levels in the pavement. Best to hire a concrete specialist to help you treat curling issues.

4. Cracking

Cracking is another common issue that can occur after concrete paving. It can be caused by various factors such as temperature changes, strain from heavy loads, or poor installation.

How to Fix them?

A licensed contractor should be hired for this job. Depending on the damage type and extent, contractors can use crack injection, saw cutting and sealing, joint repair, and patching to fix the cracks in concrete pavements. Additionally, regularly applying the sealant to the surface can help reduce the risk of further cracking by providing an additional layer of protection against weather-related deterioration.

5. Blistering or Flaking

Blistering on a concrete surface looks like small hollow bumps caused by air being trapped under the finished surface. It can happen from too much vibration of the concrete mix, improper finishing, or having too much air in the mix. Besides that, rapid water evaporation from the surface is also determined to cause blistering. Over time it can damage the area.

How to Fix Them?

It’s best to get the concrete resurfaced to fix blistering or flaking. A concrete contractor can come out and use a diamond grinder to remove the damaged layer of concrete, then replace it with new material.

6. Crazing

Crazing is minor, closely spaced cracks on the surface. It’s usually caused by shrinkage of the concrete mix while it cures and dries. These cracks are difficult to repair because they’re so close together.

How to Fix Them?

One way to fix crazing is through a process called grinding and sealing. A concrete contractor will grind down the surface with diamond blades, then fill in any remaining cracks with a sealant, creating a smooth surface that won’t be affected by water.

Maintenance Tips to Prolong Concrete Pavement’s Life

Compared to other surfaced materials, concrete has a long lifespan. Usually lasting between 25-75 years. However, to reach that age, proper maintenance is necessary. Here are a few maintenance tips to consider after concrete paving to prolong your surface lifespan.

1. Prioritize Proper Curing

The curing process is one of the most critical stages in concrete paving. In this stage, the cement particles join to become part of the pavement surface. To ensure it cures appropriately, keep vehicles and traffic away from newly-poured areas for at least two days so it has time to set correctly. For optimal strength, provide curing for 28 days.

2. Seal the Pavers

Sealing your pavers will protect the surface from various contaminants, including oil, dirt, and debris. It helps to keep the surfaces looking bright and new for longer. It’s always essential to use a sealant compatible with the concrete pavement – it’s best to ask concrete specialists for advice on which sealants are suitable for your project.

3. Regular Cleaning

The build-up of debris and other elements can reduce the life of your pavement. To avoid this, regularly clear away any dirt or build-up using an appropriate cleaner that won’t damage the surface. Maintaining cleanliness also ensures that no bacteria or mold growth occurs between cracks.

4. Regular Inspections

Inspecting the pavement is essential to identify potential problems or issues early on. A visual inspection should be done, but if you have access to high-tech equipment such as infrared cameras, these can be used for a more in-depth examination. It will help establish which repairs must be done immediately and which can wait until later.

Related: Is Your Concrete Pavement Failing? Here’s What You Might Be Doing Wrong

Conclusion

Defects in the concrete pavement can be a real problem. Still, with the proper maintenance tips and regular inspections, they can easily be prevented. Good repair techniques are essential to ensure that the defects don’t get worse over time and cause more damage than necessary. So, get out there and make sure your concrete surfaces will last for years!

Concrete Specialist in Lees Summit, MO

If you’re looking for a concrete specialist in Lees Summit, MO, Paradise Pavement Maintenance can help. We have years of experience repairing and maintaining concrete surfaces for commercial, industrial, and residential customers. Our skilled staff is knowledgeable about every kind of rigid pavement issue and committed to offering outstanding services.

Contact us today and get a free estimate.

When it comes to undertaking asphalt paving projects, such as parking lots and other paved areas, at your commercial property, you want the work done quickly and efficiently by professional paving contractors. If these projects are not well planned, your business activities can be disrupted, resulting in customer complaints and possibly revenue losses.

You can avoid problems and expensive downtime due to paving and asphalt surface maintenance projects by choosing a competent paving contractor like Paradise Pavement Maintenance in Kansas City, MO.

While executing a commercial paving project, you should follow the measures mentioned in this guide to ensure your project is completed with as little disruption possible.

Planning Ahead

Weather is a crucial element to consider when paving; the colder months are not suitable because asphalt needs higher temperatures to cure properly. You’ll also need to think about your company’s business cycles and special events, such as Christmas sales, plan strategically to achieve project success best. To keep disruption to a minimum, scheduling pavement work during less hectic hours is essential.

Working in Phases

Most property owners would like to get done with paving projects sooner than later. However, sometimes it is best to break down an extensive paving or asphalt repair project in phases. There may be various reasons for employing this approach, such as a limited budget. You may want to complete the phases during the same season or over several weeks or months.

A business owner with several paved areas that need to be worked on will be sure to alternate their paved surfaces to minimize disruptions for each lot. Closing one space entirely while directing customers elsewhere may cause difficulties with overflow on other lots, causing minor inconveniences. Still, you’ll have ample extra capacity overall, thanks to this smart approach.

Keep Changes in the Project Plan to a Minimum

During the project, the work schedule may need to be adjusted occasionally by you or the contractor due to unavoidable circumstances. Experienced contractors will do all they can to keep these changes to a minimum. They know that too many modifications might lengthen not only the project duration but also raise its cost.

Most professional paving companies employ project managers who serve as the primary point of contact throughout the project. They assure that work continues according to the schedule unless there are exceptional circumstances. If such situations arise, potential change orders to the original contract are delivered immediately and clearly to the customer.

Choosing a Professional Contractor

When executing an asphalt paving project, keeping the disruptions to a minimum and achieving the desired results depends on the contractor working on the project. That’s why hiring an experienced, professional contractor is critical for the success of your project.

The best contractors like Paradise Pavement Maintenance in Kansas City, MO, display the following qualities: they are licensed and insured, they have excellent communication skills, they have extensive knowledge & experience working with asphalt, they have a great reputation, hire a professional crew, and keep high-quality equipment. You should get quotes from several contractors. Reach out to people in your industry for recommendations or inquire about getting a list of satisfied customers who you can contact for referrals.

Contact Us for a Free Estimate.

It’s not a coincidence that most parking lots are paved with asphalt. Asphalt is incredibly durable and can withstand heavy traffic loads, making it the perfect material for parking areas. If you’re thinking about paving your parking lot in Overland Park, KS, here are five basics of asphalt paving you should know before getting started. Happy paving!

1) Opt for Sustainability

When choosing an asphalt paving contractor, make sure to ask about their sustainability practices. Paving contractors like Paradise Pavement Maintenance, who use sustainable practices, will recycle asphalt pavement and materials whenever possible. This not only helps reduce waste but aids in conserving resources.

2) The Significance of a Durable Sub-base

A sub-base is the layer of material that sits below the asphalt surface. It’s responsible for supporting the weight of vehicles and traffic loads. When choosing a paving contractor, make sure to ask about their subbase preparation practices. A poorly prepared subbase can lead to premature pavement failure.

A weak subbase will not only cost you a significant sum in the form of repairs but can also result in lawsuits and damages as visitors could sustain injuries on your property.

3) Frequent Asphalt Inspections

It’s essential to have your asphalt pavement regularly inspected, especially if it’s located in a high-traffic area. An experienced inspector identifies potential problems and addresses them before they become more significant issues.

Paving contractors typically offer a maintenance program that includes periodic inspections and repairs as needed. This can help you avoid costly repairs down the road.

4) Regular Parking Lot Line Marking and Restriping

One of the best ways to keep your parking lot looking neat and organized is by regularly painting new lines and symbols. Faded or missing lines can be a significant safety hazard, so ensure you have them routinely repainted.

Restriping is also necessary after any significant asphalt repair work.

5) Leave Parking Lot Alone During Curing Process

Once the curing process begins, it’s critical not to drive or walk on the asphalt. Doing so can damage the new surface and lead to premature wear and tear.

It’s also a good idea to keep pets and children away from the area, as they may unintentionally damage the pavement. Give your parking lot at least three days before allowing any traffic on it.

Paving an asphalt parking lot is a big decision that should not be taken lightly. By remembering these five basics, you’ll be able to make an informed decision that will last for years to come.

Asphalt paving is a complicated process that requires the proper knowledge and experience. If you’re thinking about having an asphalt parking lot or driveway installed in Overland Park, remember to contact our team of experts at Paradise Pavement Maintenance for all your needs. We offer free estimates on any job, big or small so call us today!

Asphalt is one of the most-used materials in constructing and repairing roads, highways, driveways, and parking lots. It’s also one of the most durable and long-lasting. Although asphalt is a rigid material, it can still crack or break. When you hit a pothole, be prepared to get out in front of it and fix what has developed. There are several different asphalt repairs, so make sure you choose the right one for the job at your property in Lees Summit.

There are four asphalt repairs: patching, resurfacing, re-grading, and overlaying. This blog post by Paradise Pavement Maintenance explains when each type of asphalt repair is used.

Asphalt Patching:

If you need to quickly fix a hole or crack in your asphalt and don’t have much money, you can use surface patching. It is a simple and affordable way to do it. But keep in mind that this is only a temporary fix, and the problem might come back.

Surface asphalt patching is a short-term solution that is only good for less than two inches deep holes. It usually lasts around two years, but it depends on how often the area is used and weather conditions. You need to inspect it regularly to make sure it’s still working. If it’s not, you have to choose between a more permanent and expensive repair method or a less permanent but much cheaper fix.

Resurfacing:

One technique for repairing asphalt is milling and resurfacing. If your asphalt needs replacement, this is likely the best option.

During this procedure, contractors will take all the old asphalt and make it into small gravel-like pieces that can be useful for construction.

This new asphalt will be used in the resurfacing or repaving operation. You’ll have a gorgeous, smooth, sturdy, and clean blacktop that will endure for many years if you take care of it.

Asphalt Removal and Replacement

Peel and pave, also known as pavement removal and replacement, is a more comprehensive and long-term solution than surface patching. When a section of the asphalt roadway is damaged, contractors will remove it and replace it with new asphalt.

This process usually involves removing several layers of asphalt until the faulty sections are eliminated. The contractors try to preserve as much of the original asphalt pavement as possible to combine it with a new aggregate for a better result. The new aggregate is then applied to repair the old damaged asphalt, which is more expensive and time-consuming and helps your asphalt last longer.

Full-Depth Repair

The best asphalt resurfacing procedures are full-depth repairs, including replacing the complete pavement system. Cracking, pavement failure, and severe distress in targeted regions can cause various difficulties, including big potholes and crumbling across the property.

These situations are so costly that they can even affect the foundation. As a result, you’ll need a whole-depth fix. You won’t be able to repair it while it’s still in the ground if it’s damaged. So just dig up, replace the substance with something more durable, and then replace the top part before replacing the entire thing.

The Gist:

Determining which repair technique is best for your property in Lees Summit, MO, can be confusing. You might not even know where to start. That’s where we step in. Paradise Pavement Maintenance offers a range of asphalt repairs, from patching to milling and overlaying. Get a free estimate.

Is your concrete driveway looking a bit different lately? If it’s starting to resemble alligator skin, then you’ve got a case of alligator cracks! Alligator cracks can hurt your pavement beyond repair, leaving you with a big replacement job. Not taking immediate action against them might turn into a deep regret soon. While all this might sound scary, don’t worry! Paradise Pavement Maintenance shares a few effective ways to deal with alligator cracking.

What Causes Alligator Cracking?

Alligator cracks are caused by several factors such as poor drainage, vehicle traffic going over the pavement, or when the soil underneath your concrete is not properly compacted. It could also be caused due to extreme weather changes that cause uneven shrinkage in your concrete slabs.

While controlling many factors is unimaginable, you can avoid extreme results by following a basic pavement maintenance routine. Efficient pavement maintenance and repair is a pre-emptive way to resolve potential problems down the line.

How to Treat Alligator Cracks?

Hire a Reliable Contractor

A professional contractor is better equipped to assess the situation and provide a solution. You can repair alligator cracks, but it is crucial to seek professional help.

Contractors often offer a free inspection, so take advantage of that and have them take a look at your pavement. Some contractors will also do this as part of an annual maintenance plan.

Evaluate Problem Source

Drainage and damage to the pavement sub-base are all potential problem sources. Address these issues to prevent the alligator cracks from worsening.

If you have determined that drainage is your issue, re-grading and sloping the ground away from the pavement can help correct the drainage problem. You may also need to install new or bigger drains or alter your gutters and downspouts.

Remove Damaged Surface

Once you identify and repair the problem source, it’s time to remove the damaged surface. Be sure to remove all of the cracked and broken pavement to ensure the new pavement bonds well.

Once removed, sweep the area clean and check for any additional damage that may need repair. Pour a new layer of asphalt over the area, using a hot mix if possible. Compact the asphalt well so it bonds securely to the underlying surface.

Repair the Entire Surface

In some cases, repairing the entire surface is the best solution. If the cracking is widespread or if it’s challenging to identify the source, repairing the whole surface may be your best bet. This allows you to re-install the sub-base and avoid future cracking problems. A new asphalt surface provides 20 years of durability so that you can have peace of mind in your investment.

With Paradise Pavement Maintenance, there’s no need for worry because we provide a full range of commercial and residential asphalt maintenance services, including repair from those pesky alligator cracks. Get a free estimate from our team in Kansas City today and eliminate those ungainly cracks.