Commercial pavement requires more than an occasional repair. Different maintenance services address different stages of pavement wear, and knowing when to use each one can help property owners make more informed decisions.
While every property is different, understanding the general pavement maintenance timeline is a useful starting point.
Regular Inspections: The Starting Point
Every maintenance program should begin with regular inspections.
Look for cracking, potholes, drainage problems, faded markings, rutting, and areas where pavement is beginning to deteriorate. Documenting these issues helps property owners track changes over time and prioritize future work.
Crack Filling: Address Cracks Early
Crack filling is intended to prevent moisture from entering through cracks in the pavement.
Once cracks become visible, they should be evaluated rather than ignored. Addressing them while they are relatively minor can help prevent them from contributing to more significant deterioration.
Pothole and Asphalt Repairs: When Damage Appears
Potholes, failed patches, and isolated areas of deterioration should be repaired as they develop.
The appropriate repair method depends on the size and depth of the problem and what is happening beneath the surface.
Sealcoating: Protect Pavement in Good Condition
Sealcoating is a preventive service designed to protect suitable asphalt from weather, moisture, and everyday wear.
It is most effective when applied to pavement that is still structurally sound. It is suggested to sealcoat your lot every 2 to 3 years.
Resurfacing or Rehabilitation: When Pavement Needs More
As pavement ages, maintenance alone may no longer be enough. Milling and resurfacing or other rehabilitation options may become appropriate when the surface has deteriorated but the underlying structure remains suitable.
Replacement: When Pavement Has Reached the End of Its Life
When pavement has significant structural failure or has deteriorated beyond practical repair, replacement may be necessary.
The goal of a maintenance program is not to avoid replacement forever. It is to help property owners get the most useful life possible from their pavement and plan for major work before it becomes an emergency.
Build a maintenance timeline that works for your property. Contact Finley Asphalt & Concrete to discuss your pavement’s needs.
