Don’t Settle for a Patchwork of Problems
Let’s face it, asphalt is the backbone of our roads and parking lots, but when that smooth black surface gets rough and starts to show signs of wear, it can be a real headache. A bad asphalt job isn’t just about aesthetics; it can impact your budget for repairs down the road, and even pose safety risks on your sidewalks or driveways.
To ensure you’re getting quality work from your paving professionals, here are some tell-tale signs that signal a potentially problematic asphalt job.
**1. Uneven Surface: A Warning Sign for the Future**
A good job will leave you with a uniformly smooth and even surface where the asphalt looks visually appealing and has minimal dips, bumps or uneven areas. But if the surface suddenly becomes bumpy after just a few months, it won’t take long to realize there are significant issues at play. These issues can range from poor compaction during installation to underlying soil problems that weren’t adequately addressed.
This unevenness can lead to further complications like drainage issues or even potholes forming sooner than expected, requiring expensive repairs down the road. If you notice this in your driveway or parking lot, it’s time for a thorough inspection by an expert.
**2. Excessive Cracking: A Sign of Aging and Stress**
Cracks are unavoidable, but excessive cracking can signal deeper problems with the asphalt itself. If you notice large cracks that spread quickly or form in unexpected places, it might be a sign of improper curing or underlying structural issues.
Excessive cracking increases the risk of more significant damage like crumbling and water penetration. This can ultimately lead to costly repairs and even necessitate complete replacement.
**3. Visible Bubbles: A Sign of a Short-Cut Job**
If you see bubbles or air pockets in the asphalt, it’s usually a sign of an inadequate application during the paving process. These bubbles can form where air got trapped beneath the asphalt before setting, resulting in unevenness and potential for future problems.
The presence of bubbles suggests that the asphalt mix was not properly prepared or applied. This can cause air pockets to form and ultimately create weak spots in the surface.
**4. Poor Drainage: The Silent Killer of Asphalt**
A good asphalt job should have proper drainage systems integrated into its design. A properly installed system will be able to redirect water away from your driveways and parking areas, preventing standing water and erosion.
Poor drainage is a major problem for asphalt surfaces as it can trap moisture and lead to the rapid deterioration of the base layer. This is especially problematic in areas where there are heavy rainfall or frequent snowmelt. You might see pooling water on your driveway or parking lot after a heavy rain, which might be a sign of poor drainage.
**5. Color Differences: The Mark of Poor Quality**
If you notice discoloration in the asphalt—a color difference between sections of your pavement, it can indicate improper mixing or a lack of quality control during the paving process. This uneven coloring might lead to an unsightly and less durable structure.
It’s important to note that some variations in color are inevitable, but significant differences that seem out of place or don’t blend well with other areas in your pavement should raise a red flag about the quality of the work.
**6. Missing Drainage: The Silent Killer of Asphalt**
Drainage is crucial for long-lasting asphalt. If you notice missing drainage channels, it’s an urgent issue! Poor drainage can lead to water buildup and damage the pavement foundation, accelerating its deterioration. It also increases the risk of potholes.
**7. The Smell of Trouble: A Sign of a Lack of Quality **
Sometimes, even with good care, asphalt can start emitting an unpleasant odor. A strong or lingering smell like fuel, chemicals, or even a rotten egg scent could indicate improper mixing during the paving process, which is something you should always address immediately.
Remember: Don’t let these signs of a bad job slip by! If you notice any of them, it’s time to reach out to a reputable asphalt contractor. They have the expertise and experience to handle these issues effectively and deliver lasting quality solutions for your pavement needs.
**8. The Importance of Professional Expertise**
When choosing an asphalt paving company, look for professionals with years of experience, positive reviews from past clients, and a portfolio that showcases the quality of their work. A little research can go a long way in finding a reputable contractor who understands your needs and can deliver quality results.
**9. Investing in Quality is Investing in Longevity**
It’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, but remember that a bad job now may cost you much more down the road. Investing in a high-quality asphalt job that stands up to the test of time can save you headaches and money in the long run.