Some asphalt damage is easy to see. If you have potholes or cracks, then your asphalt obviously needs some help. However, some asphalt damage isn't that obvious. You get more subtle signs that you might need to fix the surface. That said, what should you look out for?
1. Changes in Surface Levels
While your asphalt might have been even and level to start with, it won't always stay that way. Problems with the base, heavy vehicle traffic, water ingress, problems with underground pipes or heavy usage can turn a level surface into a bumpy one. As such, you might not notice much of a difference to start with. However, if your surface has new dips in it or has started to buckle up slightly, then you know that you have a problem to investigate. If the surface isn't level, then something isn't right underneath it.
2. Changes in Drainage
The contractor that originally laid your asphalt should have taken steps to ensure that the surface could drain away excess water and moisture. However, over time, you may see changes in the way this kind of surface drains. For example, you might notice that the asphalt has more puddles on it after it rains. These puddles won't go away as quickly as they once did.
Asphalt that stops draining needs to be assessed. If you leave the problem alone, then water will start to break down the surface and create potholes. It stops the binding agents that hold the asphalt together from doing their job. Plus, if water gets into sub-layers, then it could damage the surface's base. This could give you a different set of problems, like buckling and sinking.
3. Changes in Colour
While asphalt does lose its initial deep colour, its colour should stay consistent. Unusual colour changes might be a sign that the surface has a problem. For example, if your asphalt has turned from a deep black to a lighter grey, then you'll know the surface is getting old. It may be getting brittle now and might need a reseal.
Alternatively, if you see stains on the surface, keep an eye on them. While some stains won't do any harm, some oil and chemical products can damage asphalt. If you have stains that change colour or spread, then you should have them checked out.
If you see any of these signs or are simply generally worried about your asphalt's condition, then contact asphalt repairs contractors. They can provide more information about asphalt repairs.
Share12 April 2021
Pouring concrete isn't necessarily as straightforward as it looks. Depending on the land, you have to make multiple adjustments ranging from laying a layer of gravel to putting in moisture barriers. Then, depending on the size of the concrete pad, you may need to add steel reinforcements. After the concrete has dried and cured, you may decide to add sealants, do an acid wash or play with other finishes. Then, of course, there are differences between pouring concrete inside or outside. In this blog, I hope to cover all those issues and more. If you're looking for tips and ideas, take a look at these posts. Whether you plan to hire a concrete contractor or do the work yourself, it can help to know this information.
