Your parking lot or driveway might look pretty bad. You could see cracks, holes, or just a bumpy surface. You might wonder what you can do to fix it. Maybe you need to just patch a few spots or maybe you need a whole new surface. The question is, should I do an asphalt repair or replace?
Choices like topping off, patching, or full replacement have different uses. How you decide depends on the damage and age. Choosing right is essential to make the most of your money and property,”
Is it time for patching or a complete redo? Let’s figure out what’s best for your asphalt. We’ll look at the important factors together. Then, you can make the right choice for your space.
Key Takeaways:
- Asphalt patching is the cheapest option for minor repairs such as small divots, cracks, and holes.
- Asphalt resurfacing can extend the life of asphalt if the foundation is in good condition, there are no deep or wide cracks, the surface is less than 20 years old, and less than a quarter of the surface needs repairs.
- Asphalt paving replacement is the complete overhaul of the surface, usually selected when more than a quarter of the surface needs work, the foundation is unstable, the surface is over 20 years old, there are deep cracks, or there have been several repairs already.
- The cost of asphalt patching is the lowest, followed by resurfacing, and paving replacement is the most expensive option.
- Resurfacing can provide at least ten more years of life to an asphalt driveway.
- Contact HT Paving for all your asphalt needs in San Mateo, CA and surrounding areas.
Asphalt Repair or Replace: When to Choose Asphalt Patching
Mending your asphalt quickly can make it last longer and save you cash later. Asphalt patching is perfect for fixing small divots, cracks, and holes on your surface.
Asphalt patching works well for shallow cracks. It smooths out the surface by adding new asphalt. This method is great for cracks less than a quarter-inch wide. It stops further damage and delays bigger fixes or replacements.
For bigger cracks or whole sections needing repair, dig-out patching is best. This means taking out the bad asphalt and replacing it with new. Dig-out patching is more work but gives a lasting fix without the worry of soon needing more repairs.
One of the best parts about asphalt patching is it’s cheaper than resurfacing or replacing the whole thing. It costs about $2 to $3 per square foot, not counting tools. The price varies depending on how bad the damage is and the size of the area needing repair.
However, patched areas might not look exactly like the rest of the driveway. They could create a slight raised area. But, these differences are usually small and don’t affect how well your driveway works.
Choosing to patch up your asphalt’s small problems is wise. It helps your surface last longer and avoids the need for expensive overhauls. Remember, keeping up with maintenance and fixing small issues right away is crucial for your driveway or parking lot’s health.
When to Choose Asphalt Resurfacing
If your asphalt is less than 20 years old but showing damage, resurfacing could be a smart move. It involves taking off the top layer of the asphalt. Then, any hidden issues are fixed before laying a new surface.
This method is more than just covering small damages like patches do. It is a bigger fix that makes your asphalt look better. And it can save you money compared to completely ripping up your old pavement.
Resurfacing is really good if not much of the area is broken and the base is solid. It not only makes the surface look great again. It also strengthens it, increasing how long you can wait before a big replacement.
But, your asphalt’s foundation must be in good shape for resurfacing to work well. If your ground has major problems or large cracks, resurfacing might not help. In those situations, replacing the asphalt might be a better idea.
Choosing the right time for resurfacing is crucial. It’s harder to do in the cold because the asphalt won’t set well. So, it’s best to plan this work for the warmer months when the asphalt can properly bond.
Asphalt resurfacing can cost more than patching but less than a full new surface. It not only fixes issues but also makes your asphalt look better. This means you can enjoy a nicer surface for longer.
To understand more about resurfacing and find the best solution for your situation, talking to an expert is key. A professional can check your surface and recommend the best path. Age, the amount of damage, and the foundation’s condition are all important factors they’ll consider.
When to Choose Asphalt Paving Replacement
If more than a quarter of your asphalt surface needs fixing, consider a replacement. This process includes removing old layers, leveling the ground, and putting down fresh asphalt.
Choosing this option is beneficial for several reasons. It gives your surface a complete makeover. This means it tackles any hidden issues too. If you take good care of it, a newly paved asphalt can last over 20 years. So, in the end, it’s a smart choice for your wallet.
Yes, it’s pricier than other options. But, the low maintenance and its long life span make it worth the cost. A complete replacement helps fix big problems. You get a new surface that will last for many years without worry.
Contact HT Paving for all your asphalt needs in San Mateo, CA and surrounding areas.
FAQ
What factors should I consider when choosing between asphalt repair and replacement?
When choosing between repairing asphalt and replacing it, look at the damage’s size and your surface’s age. If you see small divots, cracks, and holes, you might just need patching. But, if over one-quarter of the surface is damaged, it’s time to replace it. The foundation’s health and your budget are also key things to think about.
When should I choose asphalt patching?
Choose patching for shallow cracks, divots, and small holes as a first step. It works by removing the top layers and adding new asphalt. For severe cracks, dig-out patching might be better. However, patching might not look seamless with the rest of the pavement and can cause bumps.
When should I choose asphalt resurfacing?
Resurfacing is in the middle, between patching and replacing. It’s a good pick if your foundation is solid, there are no wide or deep cracks, and your surface is under 20 years old. Less than a quarter needing repair is also important. It makes the asphalt look new again and boosts its durability. Still, bad foundations can cause more problems.
When should I choose asphalt paving replacement?
If over a quarter of your surface is damaged, think about replacing it. Full replacement removes the old asphalt, fixes the base, and lays down a new layer. This process gives you a brand-new look that lasts long, around 20 years. Remember, it’s the most expensive choice that needs a solid budget.
