Like most things in life, asphalt isn’t meant to last forever. And depending on its exposure to elements, foot traffic, or vehicles, it can start to show signs of wear sooner than you think. Knowing what to watch for before small problems turn into expensive ones is key to asphalt maintenance and repair. Whether you’re caring for a driveway at home or managing a busy parking lot, our team is here to share a few signs you need residential or commercial asphalt repair:

Your Asphalt Has Recurring Cracks

Cracks are often the first sign that asphalt repair is needed. Though hairline cracks may seem harmless, they allow water to seep below the surface and cause extensive damage. In fact, once moisture settles in, temperature changes can cause the pavement to expand and contract, making those cracks spread. If you notice cracks multiplying or widening, it is time to act rather than waiting it out.

You See Potholes and Uneven Areas in Your Asphalt

Potholes are hard to ignore. They can also be incredibly damaging to vehicles. Potholes and uneven areas in asphalt form when small cracks go untreated, weakening the base beneath the asphalt. Another sign that you need residential asphalt repair is when the pavement feels soft when you step on it. These issues point to deeper structural problems that require professional attention.

Your Asphalt Has Drainage Problems

Have you ever noticed that areas of your pavement remain flooded after heavy rain? Puddles that linger or water that does not drain properly can weaken asphalt over time. This is because standing water seeps into small openings, accelerating the deterioration of your asphalt. In fact, poor drainage is one of the fastest ways to shorten pavement life, especially in high traffic areas.

How Long Does Asphalt Last?

How long your asphalt lasts largely depends on how often it’s used. Asphalt that sees heavy usage from commercial vehicles will wear faster than a driveway in a single-person home. Asphalt in a busy shopping center parking lot may sustain damage more quickly than in a playground. However, asphalt typically lasts anywhere from 15 to 20 years. At this point, cracking, fading, or uneven spots begin to appear. Again, knowing the early signs of damage will help keep your asphalt fresh, sturdy, and safe for several more years.

Find Asphalt Repair Near Me

Whether you oversee several commercial properties or are noticing small cracks in your home’s driveway, knowing when it’s time to repair your asphalt is crucial to maintaining it. At Tates Creek Paving, we specialize in all aspects of asphalt, including commercial asphalt repair and residential asphalt repair. We provide asphalt patch services (including cold patch asphalt), asphalt crack filler, and asphalt driveway repair. If you’re ready to get your asphalt into tip-top shape again, we’re ready to connect with you.

Be sure to contact us today to get started. In the meantime, explore the different types of asphalt available for residential and commercial spaces.

Tates Creek Paving is located in Lexington, Kentucky, and proudly serves Lexington, Richmond, Paris, Versailles, Nicholasville, and Georgetown, Kentucky.