FYI COMMON PROBLEMS WITH ASPHALT PAVEMENTS



Single line cracks are the beginning signs of asphalt paving distress. They should be evaluated and crack filled on a yearly basis before they develop into patches. See "Crack Rite" page.

Alligatored areas are caused by base failure and/or high viscosity levels that make the paving hard and brittle (See chart). These areas may sink or breakup They should be dug up and properly patched.

Potholes are areas that have broken up due to water, freeze-thaw cycles, etc. In most cases these areas need to be filled temporarily in cold weather and then dug up and properly patched when weather conditions improve.

Coal tar emulsions are the traditional product for asphalt maintenance. However, continuous use of coal tar sealers can result in cracking and peeling which destroys fuel resistance and can lead to pavement failure. See article, "Hazards of Altering Sealer Mix Designs" and exerpts from FAA report "Criteria for Coal Tar Sealcoats".
Striping should be done on a periodic basis to improve the appearance and efficiency of any parking lot.

*Photos courtesy of Asphalt Institute Manual Series #16 (MS-16)

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO AVOID THESE COMMON PROBLEMS? The Asphalt Institute states: "The key to extending the life of your pavement, in the most economical manner, is with timely preventive maintenance. Schedule maintenance when your pavement is in good condition, and structurally upgrade poor pavements.

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