Top Signs Your Asphalt Pavement Needs Repair or Replacement

Signs You Need Asphalt Repair (Minor to Moderate Damage)

1. Cracks (Alligator, Linear, or Block Cracks)

   • Small cracks can be sealed easily, but widespread “alligator cracking” (resembling reptile skin) may indicate deeper structural issues.

2. Potholes

   • Potholes form when water seeps into cracks and weakens the pavement. If ignored, they can worsen and damage vehicles.

3. Standing Water/Poor Drainage

   • Water pooling on your asphalt indicates drainage problems, which can lead to cracks and potholes over time.

4. Fading or Discolored Surface

   • UV rays and weather conditions cause asphalt to fade from deep black to gray, making it more brittle and prone to cracking. Sealcoating can restore its look and extend lifespan.

5. Rough or Uneven Surface

   • Small dips, bumps, or rough textures indicate early wear and may need patching or resurfacing.

Signs You Need Asphalt Replacement (Severe Damage)

6. Deep or Widespread Cracks & Potholes

   • If cracks and potholes cover a large portion of the surface, repairs won’t be effective, and full replacement is the best option.

7. Major Drainage Issues & Water Damage

   • If water is eroding the foundation beneath the pavement, resurfacing won’t help. The entire structure may need reconstruction.

8. Foundation Failure (Alligator Cracking)

   • If cracks form an interconnected pattern (like an alligator’s skin), the sub-base has likely failed, requiring a complete replacement.

9. Multiple Repairs in a Short Time

   • If you constantly need patches and sealcoating, a full replacement might be more cost-effective in the long run.

10. Old Age (15-20+ Years)

• Asphalt typically lasts 15–20 years. If your pavement is near this age and showing significant wear, a replacement may be the best investment.

Read More About Our Article

• How To Resurface Your Driveway
• Why Now Is The Best Time To Get Asphalt Paving Work Done
• You Can Recycle Your Old Asphalt
• The benefits of asphalt paving over other paving materials
• The environmental impact of asphalt paving and how to minimize it

Repair vs. Replacement: What’s Best?

Condition	Solution
Small cracks, minor potholes	Repair (sealcoating, crack filling)
Isolated damage in a few spots	Patching
Widespread cracking, alligator cracks	Resurfacing or replacement
Severe drainage issues, foundation failure	Full replacement

Tip: Regular maintenance, including sealcoating every 2–3 years, extends the life of your asphalt and prevents costly replacements.

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