Useful Information About Asphalt Repair Los Gatos

By Janet Perry


When you first hear about asphalt repair, it could sound like a daunting task. In consideration of asphalt repair Los Gatos residents should consider a number of useful tips. Among the first most important considerations is cause of the failure. Water damage and ultraviolet rays are among the most common reasons why they get damaged. The UV rays tend to break down asphaltic materials and thus lead to cracks.

There will be penetration of water through the cracks which allows sub base material to get saturated and washed out. Because of the washing out of the base material from under the asphalt, there will be further fail and potholes develop finally. Once there is creation of a pothole, the base under it will need to be addressed before one paves over again.

To begin with, saturated base material will need to be gotten rid of. Size of equipment that will need to be used is dependent on how large the troubled area is. Such removal is done with anything that ranges from small skid steers to the very large equipment which are used for excavation. After evacuating the area and removing material, it is important to saw cut perimeter of the area.You first make saw cuts by popping chalk lines through the use of a caulk box.

The chalk lines are followed with the saw to ensure straight cuts around perimeter of the troubled area. If these steps are executed in the beginning the end product will not only be stronger but also more attractive. Having made the cuts around the perimeter, you will need to neatly clean out asphalt and materials in the area that is affected. It will also be important to clean the area of debris. Any wet materials will need to be removed from the area so that there is proper foundation for new base material.

When you have removed the wet materials, you should have new compactible materials like stones in the area. The new material might require to be compacted in lifts as it gets put in place depending on the size and depth of excavation. Thereafter, a tack coat is placed. The tack coat will ensure that there is proper adhesion between new paving and base material.

It is advisable to have the seal coated once in a while. If the work is to be done individually, the coating is done every year. In case it is to be done by professionals, it can be done after approximately three or four years. This will almost always double the lifespan of the asphalt. Other than that also, it will help to reduce the need for doing frequent repairs.

The seal is never that costly. In most cases, one does not have to spend more than one dime per square foot to have it applied. That is considerably cheaper than having it repaired. You should also have a sealer broom and paintbrush because they are necessary for the job to be done.

It is also important to note that not everyone will be good with doing repairs. Those that are not certain of what is expected should consult contractors to have the work done for them. Besides that however, the driveway should always be in good condition whether or not the repairs are being done individually.




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