Asphalt has long been used for roads, driveways, and parking lots because it’s built to last. Of course, even the most durable asphalt surfaces wear down over time, facing threats from above and below. If you stay on top of asphalt maintenance (e.g., filling cracks, patching potholes, and repaving periodically), you might not have to worry about major repair projects for quite a while. Neglecting this maintenance, however, can result in deep-seated issues that require much more than a quick fix — this is where a full-depth reconstruction project may be necessary.
As its name implies, full-depth reconstruction involves digging below the asphalt’s surface to rebuild the road, driveway, or lot from the ground up. During this process, underground components like drainage and sewage lines are repaired or replaced as well. The project is finished when the entire reconstruction is repaved. A project this significant can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s important to know if and when it’s something to consider for your property. With that in mind, here’s when a full-depth reconstruction may be necessary to salvage your asphalt surfaces and provide them with new life.
When to Get Full-Depth Reconstruction
When Encountering Drainage Issues
Water is a formidable enemy to your asphalt surfaces, which is why proper drainage is so crucial to the longevity and integrity of your driveway or parking lot. If you notice water consistently pooling up on your asphalt, there’s a good chance there’s something wrong with its drainage system — if so, asphalt resurfacing won’t be enough. While drain rebuilding doesn’t always necessitate full-depth reconstruction, full-depth reconstruction almost always involves fixing or replacing existing drainage lines, especially since contractors will already have access to these features during this project.
When Asphalt Surfaces Are Beyond Repair
There will eventually come a point when simply repairing asphalt surfaces isn’t a practical endeavor — this is when reconstruction becomes the more viable option. Indeed, if the surface of your roadway, driveway, or parking lot is in a state of serious disrepair, no amount of patching, filling, or repaving will be sufficient. Even if these repair methods result in minor improvements, these improvements aren’t bound to last for long. Because a full-depth reconstruction replaces the base material, it offers a far more sturdy and long-lasting solution to your asphalt problems. Once you’ve reinforced your lot or driveway, the fresh pavement that finishes the job won’t be as susceptible to deterioration, and those who drive or walk upon these surfaces will be able to do so with more confidence.
When Compliance Issues Arise
The decision to invest in a full-depth reconstruction may not always be up to you. Certain commercial and municipal codes dictate the frequency of asphalt maintenance, as well as determine the indications that warrant a full-depth reconstruction or reclamation project. To remain compliant with these regulations, you must not only keep up with regular maintenance but also hire reliable asphalt paving contractors to provide key services like reconstruction when called for. Indeed, the best asphalt professionals will know what to look for when examining your asphalt surfaces to ensure that you always stay compliant with relevant codes.
Time to Rebuild Your Asphalt Surfaces?
It’s not always easy to know what your parking lot, driveway, or roadway requires — this is what the experts are for. At Cassidy Paving, we help our clients navigate the multi-faceted world of asphalt maintenance, repair, and renovation. We can let you know whether or not a full-depth reconstruction is in order and then provide the necessary services to get your pavement back in great shape. If you’re looking for expert advice and quality pavement repair in New England, we’re your team.
Call us today at 866-978-9788 for a free estimate on your next asphalt project.