24 Apr What To Do If Your Asphalt Surface Is Sinking: Insights from an Asphalt Paving and Repair Contractor in Tampa, Florida
As a property owner in Tamps, you can probably imagine how distressing it is to see a sinkhole appearing on your asphalt surface — especially if the surface is only a few years old. The cost of pavement repairs in Tampa can vary based on the type and extent of the damage that needs to be repaired. Though sinkholes are not prohibitively expensive to fix, they are often a strong indicator of an underlying structural problem. In fact, sinkholes that form within a few years after your asphalt surface has been laid are commonly associated with sub-par workmanship.
Have you noticed that your commercial asphalt surface is sinking in some areas? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This asphalt repair contractor in Tampa, Florida is going to discuss everything you’ll need to know below.
Why does an asphalt surface sink?
When it comes to small or large sinkholes in your commercial asphalt surface, the usual suspects include low-quality installation, extensive water damage, and cracks and potholes that have been left in disrepair for far too long.
When it comes to laying fresh asphalt pavement, some asphalt repair contractors in Tampa, Florida can be sloppy and rather unprofessional. Instead of taking their time and doing the job right, they tend to hurry the job and use low-cost (and low-quality) materials so they can finish the installation as quickly as possible.
Cracks and potholes can also bring a host of issues. If they are left unattended, an increasing amount of water and debris may find their way to the subgrade of your asphalt and cause some serious structural damage. Water that seeps into an asphalt surface can cause the aggregate to expand and contract at different temperatures, resulting in internal cracking. These damages often take years to manifest above ground — so you may be completely unaware of them until you see a sinkhole.
Sinkholes in your commercial asphalt surface can also be caused by harsh weather patterns and animal burrows, as well as drainage and erosion issues. Drainage and erosion issues can weaken the structural integrity of your asphalt pavement, causing it to become unstable. If your water drainage system is not efficiently draining water runoff, the asphalt pavement may absorb it. This can cause the pavement to expand and contract, resulting in cracks and potholes.
How to fix a sinking asphalt surface?
If you notice a sinkhole in your commercial asphalt surface, the first thing you should do is call a professional asphalt repair contractor in Tampa, Florida and have them survey the extent of the damage. As previously mentioned, sinkholes can be caused by several different issues that must be addressed before they can be rectified.
That said, if it is only a small sinkhole and you consider yourself handy, there are some simple DIY sinkhole repair steps you can follow:
- Remove the damaged section of the pavement to gain access to the internal asphalt structure.
- Make sure you thoroughly clean it out, removing excess standing water and debris.
- Install a sturdy foundation made of hard stone and an asphalt mixture — it is crucial to determine which asphalt mix was used in the initial installation and match it as closely as possible.
- Compact the aggregate to secure it in place.
It is worth mentioning that these are only short-term fixes for a long-term problem. Even if you go the DIY route, you will inevitably need to contact a professional asphalt repair contractor in Tampa, Florida for a permanent fix.
Looking for the Best Asphalt Paving and Repair Contractor in Tampa, Florida?
Are you dealing with a sinkhole in your asphalt surface? Looking to partner with the best asphalt repair contractor in Tampa, Florida? If so, All Asphalt Services is here to help. Regardless of the extent of the damage, our experts can provide a solution. Contact us today to request a free estimate on your project.
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