Pavements deteriorate after exposure to weather elements. The top surface may allow water to seep in if it doesn’t have a waterproof coat. Poor drainage below the surface can also cause the base to wear out, leading to water-damaged pavement.
Seeking expert help for water damage will protect your investment. A professional will fix the root issue and conduct the needed repairs. In the long run, you avoid further damage and enhance safety.
Here are the signs you need to get professional pavement services.
Stripping
Stripping refers to when the adhesive bond between individual asphalt particles weakens. It often begins at the bottom layer and progresses upward. Stripping will happen when moisture reaches the bottom layer of your pavement. It then weakens the binding agents, causing individual particles to pull away.
A stripped, water-damaged pavement will have short cracks that spread out. If you don’t fix this issue promptly, it will extend to other parts and damage the entire surface.
Spotting stripping in pavements can be tricky since most signs show after significant damage. Seeking expert help is the best way to control the problem. A contractor will fix pavement stripping by patching it with a waterproof layer. They may also recommend resurfacing for extensive damage.
Depressions
Poor compaction when installing pavement can compromise the base. If water seeps into the bottom layer, it will deteriorate it. This will lead to dips and depressions in the weakened areas. These can continue to deepen until the bottom layer solidifies. You most likely have water-damaged pavement if the surface has slight dips.
Cracks
Cracks are a common sign of water-damaged pavement. They occur when water washes away loose gravel. They can also be due to the thaw cycle when water freezes and expands your driveway.
Water-damaged pavement will have various types of cracks depending on the primary cause. Edge cracks appear on the outer sides and run along the path. These are often due to poor drainage, especially in uneven areas or those with heavy vegetation.
Linear cracks are another type common in water-damaged pavement. They occur along the joints and result from excess water around the surface.
Potholes
Potholes often appear on severely water-damaged pavements. They are a secondary issue resulting from cracks and stripping. The freeze-thaw cycle can also cause potholes since the affected parts weaken and break down from foot traffic.
The methods used to fix potholes on water-damaged pavement vary. A professional can patch using cold or hot asphalt. They may also use a different material as an overlay for structural strength.
Discoloration and Stains
Concrete pavement will form water stains after prolonged exposure. The discoloration results from mineral deposits found in untreated water.
Stains affect the appearance of concrete pavements. The deposited minerals may also react with the concrete, destabilizing bonds.
Contacting an expert once you notice stains on a water-damaged pavement helps you eliminate them. It improves your property’s appearance while avoiding more damage.
Fix your Water-Damaged Pavement Today
A water-damaged pavement is hazardous and unappealing. Looking out for the discussed signs helps you get immediate help.
At Georgia Wildcat Paving, we offer professional pavement services. We can help you avoid more losses using innovative repair technology. Moreover, we replace water-damaged pavement with severe damage using high-quality material. Get a free quote today.
