Asphalt pavements, whether they’re driveways, parking lots, or roads, don’t last forever. They’re built to withstand heavy loads and harsh weather, but eventually, they begin to show signs of wear and tear. When this happens, knowing what to look for in early signs of asphalt deterioration can help prevent minor issues from developing into major, costly repairs. Let’s dive into the common signs of deterioration where repairing parking lot asphalt, or other asphalt services is required and discuss practical ways to protect and prolong the life of your asphalt surfaces.
Why Recognizing Early Signs of Asphalt Deterioration is Essential
Asphalt deterioration doesn’t just make your property look worn down; it can lead to more serious issues if left unattended. Cracks, potholes, and drainage problems can compromise the structure of the asphalt, reduce safety, and increase long-term repair costs.
In Toronto, Richmond Hill, and across the GTA, where weather conditions can be unpredictable and harsh, timely asphalt repair is critical to preventing damage from snow, ice, and rain, which can worsen even small issues. Knowing the early signs of deterioration will help you make informed decisions about repairs and maintenance, ensuring your pavement stays in great condition for years to come.
Common Indicators of Asphalt Deterioration to Watch Out For
1. Cracks in the Asphalt Surface
Cracks are one of the first visible signs that your asphalt pavement may need attention. These seemingly minor flaws can allow water to seep into the sub-base, creating larger structural issues down the line. Here’s a breakdown of common crack types and why they should be addressed quickly.
Types of Cracks and What They Mean
| Crack Type | Description | Suggested Solution |
| Hairline Cracks | Small, surface-level cracks often due to regular wear and tear or initial settling. | Sealcoating to protect and prevent future cracks. |
| Block Cracks | Larger, square-shaped cracks caused by aging or oxidation, which weakens the binding agents. | Asphalt crack sealing or resurfacing |
| Edge Cracks | Cracks that form along the edges, often from heavy traffic or insufficient support. | Immediate crack sealing |
| Alligator Cracks | A pattern of interconnected cracks resembling alligator skin, usually caused by sub-base issues. | Patching or full-depth repair |
Why Cracks Need Urgent Repair
Cracks, if left unchecked, can expand and deepen, especially with Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycles. Water that seeps into cracks freezes and expands in colder months, widening the cracks and accelerating the deterioration process. Whether it’s driveway crack sealing or more extensive asphalt crack sealing for parking lots, taking action early can save you from extensive and costly repairs down the road.
2. Potholes: A Hazardous and Costly Issue
More than just a nuisance, potholes are a safety hazard for vehicles and pedestrians alike, and they can damage your property’s curb appeal. Holes form when water infiltrates the cracks in asphalt and erodes the sub-base, causing the sections of asphalt to collapse. If you have one, it is highly important that you fix your pothole quickly before more damage takes place.
Dangers of Ignoring Potholes
- Safety Risks: Potholes can damage tires, and misaligned wheels, and create tripping hazards for pedestrians.
- Accelerated Deterioration: Left unaddressed, a pothole can widen and compromise the surrounding asphalt, leading to more significant structural damage.
- Curb Appeal: A smooth, well-maintained surface makes a better impression on visitors and customers, especially for commercial properties.
Pothole Repair Solutions
For effective pothole repair, our team assesses the extent of the damage, cleans out the debris, and refills the hole with fresh asphalt. Proper compaction and sealing ensure a long-lasting repair that blends seamlessly with the surrounding pavement.
3. Faded Pavement Color: More Than Just Cosmetic
A new asphalt surface is deep, rich black, but over time, this colour fades to a dull grey as a result of oxidation from sun exposure and air. This isn’t just an aesthetic issue; it’s also indicative that the binding agents within the asphalt are weakening, and the material will be more susceptible to cracks and wear.
How Sealcoating Helps Protect Against Oxidation
Sealing involves laying a protective layer on the surface. The layer protects the pavement from UV rays, chemicals, and moisture and helps to retain its flexibility and colour. Sealing can help you extend your asphalt driveway or parking lot life by keeping it fresh.
4. Uneven or Sunken Areas: Indications of Poor Sub-Base Support
Low-lying or sunken areas are generally an indication of the problem with the sub-base, which may be due to poor laying initially, erosion of the soil, or heavy loads over some time. Sunken areas allow water to collect, which leads to further structural issues, particularly during freeze-thaw cycles.
The Importance of Proper Grading and Drainage
Most uneven areas are treated by checking the asphalt surface for proper water drainage. Our team will analyze the area, determine what the cause is, and recommend the appropriate asphalt repair; which might be just resurfacing or a more major sub-base adjustment.
5. Poor Drainage and Water Pooling
Proper drainage is essential to asphalt longevity. Water pooling on or around your asphalt surfaces is a red flag that can lead to accelerated deterioration.
Risks of Poor Drainage
- Base Erosion: Water seepage can erode the sub-base, weakening the pavement structure.
- Freeze-Thaw Damage: In colder months, pooled water can freeze, expanding cracks and damaging the asphalt surface.
- Increased Repair Costs: Addressing drainage issues promptly can save significant repair costs in the long run.
Catch Basin Repair for Efficient Drainage
If you notice water pooling, it may be necessary to adjust the slope of the pavement or install a catch basin to collect and channel the water away. Catch basin repair and installation can be complex, so hiring a professional asphalt contractor with experience in proper drainage design is recommended.
6. Visible Oil Stains and Chemical Spills
Oil and chemical spills are not only an eyesore but over time may degrade the asphalt, softening and weakening the pavement. The most common problems in driveways and parking lots include stains from vehicle fluids that need immediate cleaning and treatment.
Protecting Against Oil and Chemical Damage
Regular cleaning and sealcoating help protect the asphalt from penetrating chemicals. Sealcoating provides a barrier that resists oil, gasoline, and other fluids, helping your asphalt maintain its structural integrity.
7. Faded or Missing Line Markings in Parking Lots
For commercial properties, clear, visible line markings are essential for safety, organization, and compliance. Faded lines reduce parking efficiency and can cause confusion or accidents.
Parking Lot Striping and Line Painting
Have a professional paving contractor repaint your parking lot lines to maintain visibility and keep your lot visible and up to code in your area. Here at Asphalt Sealing, we provide line painting services that are highly durable yet pleasing to the eye to enhance the look of your lot.
8. Loose Catch Basins and Drainage Structures
Catch basins play a vital role in draining excess water away from your asphalt surfaces, preventing water damage. If you notice a catch basin that’s loose or damaged, it’s essential to get it fixed right away.
The Importance of Catch Basin Repair
A loose or damaged catch basin can lead to water pooling around your pavement, accelerating erosion and increasing the likelihood of potholes and cracks. A professional repair will secure the basin and ensure it’s functioning as it should.
9. Gravel and Debris on the Asphalt Surface
If you notice loose gravel or small pieces of asphalt breaking away, this is an indication that the surface is deteriorating. This is particularly common on older surfaces that haven’t been maintained regularly.
Solutions: Sealcoating and Resurfacing
Sealcoating can prevent further degradation by creating a protective layer, while resurfacing is often the best option for more extensive surface damage. A reputable paving company will assess the condition and provide a recommendation that suits your budget and pavement needs.
10. Signs of Wear in High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas, like entryways or parking lots, naturally wear faster than other parts of your asphalt. You might see tire marks, faded areas, or increased cracking in these zones.
Maintenance Options for High-Traffic Areas
For busy areas, a combination of regular sealcoating, crack filling, and line repainting will help extend the pavement’s lifespan and keep it looking great. Resurfacing may also be necessary if wear and tear are particularly advanced.
Why Choose Asphalt Sealing for Your Asphalt Repairs?
At Asphalt Sealing, we’re more than just a paving company; we’re committed to providing long-lasting solutions that keep your property safe and visually appealing. With our licensed and insured team, environmentally conscious practices, and adherence to Ontario’s building codes, we’re the top choice for asphalt maintenance in the GTA.
Vast Experience: We have handled numerous asphalt projects; therefore, we can be able to deal with any problem professionally.
Modern Equipment: The latest and modern tool investments ensure that any repairs assigned to us are efficiently and precisely done.
Competitive Pricing, Transparency in Quotes: We offer completely free quotations with no hidden charges so you can know what to anticipate.
On-Time Completion of Projects: We value your time; hence, we work hard to ensure projects are completed on time without compromising quality.
Keep Your Asphalt Pavement in Top Shape
Your driveway or parking lot is an investment, and maintaining it helps ensure a smooth, safe surface for years to come. At Asphalt Sealing, we specialize in identifying and addressing signs of asphalt deterioration quickly and effectively. From crack sealing to pothole repair and line painting, we provide comprehensive services to keep your pavement looking great and functioning optimally.
If you notice any signs of deterioration on your asphalt surfaces, contact us now! We serve Toronto, Richmond Hill, and the entire GTA, and we’re here to help you protect your property with top-quality asphalt services.