When it comes to land development and maintenance, subdivisions are designed with simplicity in mind. Though these communities tend to be large in size, they fall under the same supervision. Taking care of matters such as asphalt maintenance on a scheduled basis keeps property values high and maintains overall curb appeal. Conversely, falling behind on scheduled maintenance and necessary repairs puts the entire subdivision at risk of decline. Here are the top three signs to look for that indicate your subdivision requires pavement resurfacing or more intensive asphalt repairs.
3 Signs Your Subdivision Needs Pavement Resurfacing
1. Cracks All Over
Cracks are the first and most common sign that an asphalt surface is deteriorating. These fractures are caused by a number of factors, including thermal shock, abrasion, vehicle movement, moisture intrusion, ground shifts, and more. At their earliest stages, cracks are small, thin, and shallow. As such, these minor cracks are easy to fix by filling them with the proper substances. That said, if a subdivision’s roads, driveways, and parking lots are riddled with cracks – even minor ones – filling them all isn’t always practical. When the damage is widespread enough, asphalt resurfacing saves time, money, and resources. This process uses the existing layer as a base for the new asphalt pavement without having to completely grind up the pavement.
2. Pothole Galore
When left unchecked, cracks can turn into potholes. We’ve all seen these deep cuts on roads and in parking lots throughout New England, especially right after winter. Like cracks, isolated potholes can be filled, though the repair process is more involved and sometimes requires cutting prior to patching. Once again, a significant number of potholes change the repair equation, rendering resurfacing more feasible. Keep in mind, however, that if a pothole (or multiple potholes) is deep enough, basic resurfacing might not be enough to restore the asphalt’s sturdiness. The upper layer of asphalt might have to be removed via milling to make way for new paving so everyone in the community can safely and comfortably drive, walk, bike, and otherwise use these surfaces. Specifics aside, potholes serve as a clear indicator that asphalt paving repair and resurfacing are required.
3. Significant Fading
Blacktop doesn’t maintain its pitch-black appearance forever. As time goes on you can expect the asphalt surfaces throughout your subdivision to fade, primarily due to sun exposure. Still, you don’t want to wait until the pavement is completely greyed out before acting. As we discussed in our blog, “What It Means when New Asphalt Paving Becomes Lighter Over Time,” significant fading indicates that the asphalt is becoming more brittle and susceptible to damage. Sealcoating your pavement every 1-3 years (depending on its condition and level of use) will put the “black” back in your blacktop and protect it from further wear and tear.
Time to Resurface Your Subdivision Pavement?
Subdivisions are unique in many respects, but their pavement needs are the same as any other type of property or development. If your roads, driveways, and parking lots are showing cracks, potholes, and/or losing their color, contact the subdivision paving pros at Cassidy Paving. Call us today at 866-978-9788 for a free estimate on your next asphalt project.