From Potholes to Cracks: Common Issues That Warrant Asphalt Repair

Have you ever driven through New Orleans and noticed potholes or cracks in the road? These issues not only affect the appearance of the road but also pose a safety hazard for drivers. So why does asphalt deteriorate, and what can be done to fix it?

New Orleans is a city known for its vibrant culture and history. However, the harsh weather conditions and heavy traffic can cause wear and tear on the city’s roads, sidewalks, and driveways. As a result, it’s not uncommon to see asphalt surfaces in need of repair.

Asphalt is a popular material used for constructing roads and pavements. It’s cost-effective and durable, but it’s not invincible. Over time, asphalt can develop cracks, potholes, and other issues that require repair. In this guide from Big Easy Asphalt, we’ll discuss some common problems that require asphalt repair in New Orleans and how to address them.

Common Causes of Potholes in Asphalt.

There are several common causes of potholes in asphalt, which are typically formed in road surfaces due to various factors such as:

1. Water infiltration: Water is one of the main culprits in the formation of potholes. When water seeps into cracks or joints in the asphalt surface, it can weaken the underlying layers of the pavement, causing it to deteriorate and ultimately collapse, resulting in a pothole.
2. Freeze-thaw cycles: In areas with cold climates, freeze-thaw cycles can cause potholes to form. When water infiltrates into cracks or pores in the asphalt, and then freezes during cold temperatures, it expands and creates pressure within the pavement. As the ice melts during warmer temperatures, the pressure is released, which can cause the pavement to crack and eventually form a pothole.
3. Heavy traffic loads: Frequent and heavy traffic loads, such as those from commercial vehicles or buses, can put significant stress on the asphalt pavement. Over time, this repeated loading can weaken the pavement and cause it to crack, leading to the formation of potholes.
4. Poor construction or maintenance: Inferior quality asphalt materials, inadequate compaction during construction, or improper maintenance practices, such as lack of timely crack sealing or pothole repairs, can all contribute to the formation of potholes. If the initial construction or ongoing maintenance of the pavement is not done properly, it can result in premature deterioration and pothole formation.
5. Age and wear: Like any other infrastructure, asphalt pavements have a finite lifespan and naturally deteriorate over time due to age and wear. As the pavement ages, it becomes more susceptible to cracking and eventually pothole formation, especially in high-traffic areas or those subjected to harsh weather conditions.
6. Poor drainage: Improper or inadequate drainage can also contribute to the formation of potholes. If water is not properly drained from the pavement surface, it can accumulate and penetrate the asphalt, leading to weakened layers and pothole development.

It’s worth noting that a combination of these factors often contributes to the formation of potholes, and addressing them through proper construction, maintenance, and timely repairs is crucial in preventing potholes from forming and maintaining safe and smooth road surfaces.

The Difference Between Patching and Resurfacing Asphalt

Patching and resurfacing are two common methods used to repair and restore asphalt surfaces. Patching involves fixing only specific areas of damage, such as potholes, cracks, or other surface irregularities, by removing the damaged area and replacing it with fresh asphalt. This method is suitable for minor repairs and is a quicker and less expensive solution.

On the other hand, resurfacing involves applying a new layer of asphalt over the entire surface, essentially creating a brand-new top layer. This method is suitable for more extensive damage or surfaces that have reached the end of their useful life.

Resurfacing is a more expensive and time-consuming solution but is more durable and can extend the life of the pavement by several years. In general, patching is used for isolated areas, while resurfacing is a more comprehensive solution for larger sections of pavement.

How Do You Know if Cracks in the Asphalt Need to Be Repaired?

Cracks in the asphalt should be repaired as soon as they are noticed. The longer the cracks are left unattended, the more they will expand and cause more problems. Some signs that crack in the asphalt need to be repaired include the size of the crack, the severity of the crack, and the amount of traffic the area receives.

Cracks that are larger than a quarter-inch in width are considered to be significant, and they should be repaired immediately. Also, if the edges of the cracks are higher or lower than the surrounding pavement, this is another sign of a more severe problem.

Finally, if the area is subjected to heavy traffic, the cracks are likely to widen more quickly, and therefore repairs should be made as soon as possible.

Is It Possible to Prevent or Reduce the Occurrence of Asphalt Issues?

Yes, it is possible to prevent or reduce the occurrence of asphalt issues through proper maintenance and construction practices. Routine maintenance, such as crack sealing, pothole filling, and seal coating, can help prolong the lifespan of asphalt and prevent small issues from turning into larger, costlier problems.

Additionally, using high-quality materials and ensuring proper installation practices can prevent issues such as poor drainage, rutting, and premature deterioration. It is also important to consider factors such as climate and traffic volume when designing and constructing asphalt pavements.

By implementing these preventative measures, the occurrence of asphalt issues can be significantly reduced.

What Are Some Professional Services Available for Asphalt Repair?

There are several professional services available for asphalt repair. These include patching, resurfacing, and overlaying. Patching involves removing the damaged area and replacing it with new asphalt.

Resurfacing involves adding a new layer of asphalt on top of the existing one to fix cracks and other damage. Overlaying is similar to resurfacing, but it involves a thicker layer of asphalt applied on top of the existing one. In addition, some companies offer seal coating, which involves applying a protective coating to the asphalt to prevent further damage.

It is important to choose a reputable and experienced company for any asphalt repair work to ensure a quality job is done.

Remove Unwanted Potholes or Cracks From Your Driveway With Professional Services From Big Easy Asphalt

Are you tired of encountering damaged roads and potholes everywhere you go in New Orleans, Louisiana? Big Easy Asphalt knows how frustrating it can be to deal with common asphalt problems like cracks, potholes, and drainage issues. That’s why we’re here to help you fix them with our expert asphalt repair services!

Imagine a smooth, safe, and beautiful neighborhood where you can walk or drive without worrying about damaging your car or tripping on uneven pavement. Our skilled team can help turn this dream into reality by fixing all your asphalt problems quickly and efficiently.

Don’t waste your time and money on temporary fixes or DIY solutions. Contact us today and let us provide you with our fast, reliable, and affordable asphalt repair services in New Orleans, Louisiana. Trust us, you won’t regret it!