Asphalt is extensively used in driveways and parking lots in Ottawa which are vulnerable to the severe summers and cold winters. The fact that it constantly expands and contracts because of change in temperature and experiences normal wear from traffic makes it extremely vulnerable. Failure to do this will cost you lots of money after some years, and you will need to have the asphalt redone. So, how do you tell whether your Ottawa asphalt surface needs to be repaired? These are some common indicators that say your asphalt is in dire need of repair and why this should not be put off because you are likely to be forced to pay more than you should in the future.
1. Cracks in the Surface
Among the first indicators of a problem with the asphalt there is cracking which is a clear sign that the surface requires repair. These can be minor ones which are difficult to discern to major cracks that are easily visible. Well, in Ottawa for example, we have very harsh winters, and this water can drain into these cracks and when it freezes it expands. Potholes develop from even bigger craters on the roads mainly due to the action of the freeze-thaw cycle on this type of surface. If you recognize some cracks, it is better to seal them as soon as possible to avoid worsen the situation.
As for cracks, there are kinds of alligator cracks or linear cracks or etc. All of them need a different kind of a repair and the best solution should be suggested by an Ottawa service providing asphalt repair.
2. Potholes Forming
Some of the signs that show that your asphalt is in bad shape and requires the services of an asphalt pavement maintenance contractor include potholes. These depressions develop when the base onto which asphalt has been spread has been softened, through water seepage or traffic load. In Ottawa especially where ice melting salt is used and the harsh winter weather, potholes actually develop within a short span if cracks are not filled in good time.
These features leave deep and craters that make the surface to have a bad look and if not removed, they act as hazards to both vehicles and pedestrians. Pothole repair should be done as soon as possible to avoid aggravation of the situation. If not addressed promptly, potholes worsen and yet more of the surrounding asphalt is involved and more expensive repair work is needed.
3. Fading and Discoloration
Eventually, UV radiation, rain, snow, and other factors would cause it to become gray, instead of the wonderful black that is associated with the product. This fading is a clear show that shows the asphalt is wearing out and is more prone to damages. When the wearing course layer has weakened, it exposes the aggregates to water infiltration and repeated cracking.
If fading is apparent on your asphalt surface, then you should think about applying a protective sealcoat, or any other type of Ottawa asphalt repair. Sealcoating can bring back the look of your asphalt while offering some additional barrier for water, sun and much more.
4. Pooling Water
Do you observe that after a rainstorm, water collects at a particular location in your driveway or parking lot? This is a sure indication that one may require an asphalt that has no problem with the drainage system or even the surface. Standing water erodes the base of the asphalt gradually and the freeze-thaw cycles typical of the Ottawa climate only make this worse. That is, when water accumulates in the cracks and subsequently in the potholes, the depth of the freeze-thaw cycle increases.
Any water that appears stagnant on your asphalt surface should be checked by a professional. They are able to distinguish whether regrading, filling or some other repair strategy is required to rectify the problem.
5. Rough or Uneven Surface
The-right surface will somehow determine the service delivery of the asphalt and its look. Any sensations or feelings of roughness, unevenness, bumpiness on any paved driveway, or parking lot might be an indication of some base layer problems or worn-out surface. Such surface roughness can progress to formations of more severe problems like cracks, and potholes if not well tackled.
An
asphalt repair Ottawa
professional can also redo the asphalt and smoothen the surface to give the asphalt more efficiency and make it look much better.
6. The effects of traffic that are easy to identify
Where traffic volumes are high and particularly where large vehicles are in frequent use, considerable pressures can be brought to bear on the asphalt layers as the loads are concentrated. Tire marks, little dents, and areas of thinning out are sign that the asphalt surface is already in the process of degrading under the applied load. This worn-out part could be restored through constant maintenance and repairs so as to avoid aggravation of the condition.
Conclusion
Ottawa has shocks of weather conditions, and regular traffic hence applying force on the pavements which affects the asphalt surfaces. Even cracks, potholes, fading, accumulated water, or any inequality indicators should be noticed if one does not want to spend more money on repairs further. Any of these symptoms means that you should call an Ottawa asphalt repair contractor to come and evaluate the situation. When problems are identified in their infancy, this helps you maintain your asphalt in great shape for as long as possible, whether it be a driveway or parking lot.