Many types of degradation can occur on a flexible pavement surface. These damages and cracks can decrease the pavement’s overall performance and should be repaired as soon as possible. Asphalt Maintenance & Paving Solutions will discuss the different types of damage that can occur and the solutions for improving them. Let’s get started!

Types of Pavement Damage and Their Causes

Asphalt pavement is subject to a variety of different types of degradation. Some of the most common types of degradation include:

1. Cracks

Cracks in asphalt pavement can be caused by various factors, including traffic, temperature changes, and tree roots. Defects in the pavement itself can also cause cracks. Some cracks can be repaired with an asphalt-based material, while others may require more extensive repairs.

2. Potholes

Potholes are another type of damage that can occur on asphalt pavement. Potholes are created when water gets into cracks in the pavement and then freezes. The expanding ice creates a void under the pavement, collapsing and forming a pothole.

Potholes can be repaired by filling them with an asphalt-based material. It is essential to make sure that the material used to fill the pothole is compacted so that it does not settle and create a new pothole.

3. Tree Roots

Tree roots can cause damage to asphalt pavement by growing under the pavement and lifting it. This damage is most common at joints in the pavement where the roots can get a foothold. Tree root damage can be repaired by cutting out the damaged section of pavement and replacing it with new asphalt.

4. Oxidation

It is a chemical reaction when oxygen reacts with the asphalt binding material. This reaction causes the asphalt to become brittle and can lead to cracking.

5. Thermal Cracking

Thermal cracking occurs when the pavement is exposed to extreme temperature changes. This type of cracking is most common in areas with large temperature swings, such as in deserts or near bodies of water.

Ways to Repair Cracks

There are different ways to repair cracks in asphalt pavement, including cold patching, infrared patching, hot mix asphalt patching, and spray injection. These methods are collectively called asphalt patching.

1. Cold Patching

Cold patching is the most common type of repair because it is fast and easy. However, cold patches are not as durable as other repairs and can only be used for small cracks.

2. Infrared Patching

Infrared patching is more durable than cold patching but is more expensive and time-consuming.

3. Hot Mix Asphalt Patching

Hot mix asphalt patching is the most durable type of repair, but it is also the most expensive and time-consuming.

4. Spray Injection

Spray injection is the quickest and most straightforward type of repair, but it is not as durable as other types of restorations.

Ending Note

Even minor damages and cracks can lead to a decrease in the overall performance of your pavement. You must take care of these issues as soon as they arise so that your pavement lasts longer and functions better. If you need help repairing your flexible pavement surface, our Asphalt Maintenance & Paving Solutions team, serving Hudson, NY, is here to assist you.

We offer free estimates to restore your pavement’s health. Contact us today!