Maintaining a paved parking lot, road, or driveway requires routine maintenance. However, knowing when to call a local paving company is also essential. These are signs that it's time to pick up the phone.

1. Cracks

It's normal for asphalt to crack as time passes. Often, a tiny crack will fill with water or snow during winter. As it freezes, it expands and widens the crack. This freeze-and-thaw cycle often makes the gap more prominent until adequately repaired. Contact a professional for repairs before it gets worse, so your driveway can be a safe place to park your car and have your kids play on.

2. Potholes

Potholes are another common occurrence, especially on roads. Most states have the majority of their streets paved with asphalt. According to Asphalt Magazine, 35 states are above the national average of 94% asphalt surfacing. This statistic shows just how important asphalt is to many states. Since these roads endure a lot of wear and tear, it can result in horrendous potholes. A local paving company can efficiently fix these holes to make your private street more pleasant.

3. Fading

Nothing says beautiful quite like the fresh sparkle of beautifully laid asphalt. However, part of this gleam is due to the seal coating process that protects asphalt. If this coat is replaced every few years, then your asphalt can stay intact. The fading is due to increased exposure to UV rays, and it's a sign that you need a new seal coat.

4. Standing Water

Standing water indicates something is wrong with your asphalt. Asphalt is laid to let the water slowly drain away. Standing water suggests that there's a crack or hole, or it means the drainage system needs to be redone. A professional can properly assess the situation and let you know what needs to be repaired.

5. Stains

Asphalt is naturally absorbent, but the seal coat protects it. As this coat wears away, the asphalt is exposed to everything, including oil spills. If you notice stains on your asphalt driveway or parking lot, then it's time for another seal coat. Without one, your asphalt can absorb more chemicals and rainwater, which slowly leads to significant cracking.

6. Weeds

One of the most obvious signs that there are cracks is when weeds start growing between them. These cracks may only be noticeable once vegetation grows, which signals that it's time to call a local paving company. The cracks will continue to get worse until your asphalt is overgrown.

We have years of experience with asphalt and will happily give you an estimate. Contact us today to learn more about our services. You'll be happy you chose to hire our team at Reliable Paving LLC.