Getting to Know Asphalt & Concrete
As a property manager it’s inevitable that you’ll be involved in the upkeep of your property’s asphalt or concrete surfaces at some point. Cracks or potholes in the parking lot obviously make a big difference in how your property is perceived. There are a several things you might want to be aware of when it comes to assessing your property’s pavement. Here are a couple of the issues you might encounter and possible solutions.
Alligator cracks begin as long cracks that eventually expand into numerous smaller ones that resemble the appearance of alligator skin. These cracks usually occur because the base of the asphalt is too thin. The ideal fix is to quickly seal the long cracks before any more moisture can enter and exacerbate the problem. If you don’t catch it in time the only solution is to remove the base of the asphalt and repave the area.
Potholes are a parking lot’s worst nightmare, but there are steps you can take to help keep your lot free of them. Sometimes alligator cracks can develop into potholes if they aren’t taken care of, especially in a high traffic area. If water is allowed to flow into any cracks in the pavement for a prolonged amount of time, the expansion and contraction due to temperature changes will cause cracks to worsen to the point of dislodging the concrete. Repeated trauma from vehicles will cause the gaps in the pavement to expand and eventually a hole will be formed. Generally the way to repair a pothole is to remove that section of the pavement and replace it.
With the recent extreme winter weather in Texas there’s been no shortage of moisture on the ground. The unusual ice and snow during these freezes undoubtedly affected many roads and parking lots. You may have already noticed new cracks or holes in your parking lot as a result. If so, remember that swift action can help minimize costs when it comes to asphalt and concrete repair.
A reputable asphalt and concrete specialist is imperative to help you identify any potential problems and prescribe the proper response. If your asphalt or concrete is in need of repairs, or you need a quote for a project visit www.thevendorguide.com and contact the asphalt and concrete specialists near you.
