Allen & Sons ALLEN & SONS
TOTAL LOT MAINTENANCE, INC.


541-574-8257

UNDERSTANDING ASPHALT DEFECTS

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The following are the "standard" fixes for asphalt defects. For some of these there are alternative methods that can be used, and may be more cost effective.

  1. Raveling:
    is the gradual roughening of the surface texture. This type of defect is a non-structural defect and is more likely to form as the pavement hardens.
    Causes: insufficient binder, excessive voids, water run off, hardened and brittle asphalt.
    Solution: sealing of the asphalt.



  2. Block Cracks:
    are the combined non-load associated longitudinal and transverse cracks that intersect to form large pavement blocks 3 to 10 feet across.
    Causes: The asphalt or sub grade is shrinking
    Solution: Crack filling



  3. Transverse Cracks:
    form at 90 degrees to traffic flow.
    Causes: Cracking is the result of shrinkage of the asphalt or sub grade.
    Solution: Crack filling.



  4. Longitudinal Cracks:
    are in the direction of travel
    Causes: Longitudinal cracks can warn you of future fatigue cracking. They can be the result of material shrinkage, a very poor asphalt joint, compaction between adjacent asphalt or drying and wetting of sub grade.
    Solution: Crack filling.



  5. Fatigue cracks: (Alligatoring):
    Alligatoring is a result of excessive bending of the pavement.
    Causes: the asphalt is too thin, inadequate compaction, and moisture intrusion.
    Solution: a. If asphalt is less then 10 years old, and the alligator area is somewhat isolated, saw-cut the perimeter, remove all material to a depth of 4 inches and  re-asphalt.
    b. If the asphalt is over 10 years old and the failure is widespread (15 % plus) you are near its life expectancy and a total removal and replacement of asphalt is due.



  6. Potholes:
    pavement fatigue which results in the loss of the asphalt surface.
    Causes: Thin asphalt or aggregate base fatigue (water).
    Solution: Saw-cut perimeter remove all materials to a depth of 6 inches apply asphalt.



If you have any questions,
call us at (541) 574-8257 or fax us at (541) 574-8258

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