How to repair your asphalt

Asphalt repair is not very complex, but whatever method you choose to use will make the difference between a job that lasts years and a job that only lasts a few months.

There are several different road maintenance methods to fill in cracks that are common in asphalt that has not been properly sealed. A cold sealant will last a year or less while a hot sealant will have a longer life span; usually about three plus years. Whichever method you choose to use will depend on several different factors including where you are pouring and your budget. A cold pour method works if you are on a tight budget and don’t have access to electricity in the area, while a hot pour will last longer, cost more and cure faster.

Whichever method you choose, the benefits will stand out. Sealing cracks will prevent further damage caused by water penetrating and destroying the structural integrity of the asphalt. It will also help to prevent weeds from growing in the cracks and increases the life span of the asphalt itself by creating a barrier.

For pot holes, you will have to spread the sealant level to the surface and fill in the hole. If you have a pot hole that is particularly deep, fill the hole with gravel four inches from the top and then add the sealant to this newly created level to help give the sealant a base to sit on.

Remember that sealants have to cure 24 hours before any traffic goes on them so block off the area to protect it. If the asphalt is a parking lot or other large area you can use that down time to repaint parking lot lines.

After the cold or hot pour has cured you should put a sealant coat over it all to avoid future damage. A sealant can be applied anywhere from two to five days after the repair job for best results.