How to Spot Asphalt Problems Before They Cost You

Asphalt is one of the most durable and cost-effective paving materials, but it’s not immune to wear and tear. For municipalities and business owners in the Fraser Valley, maintaining asphalt surfaces is essential for safety, aesthetics, and long-term savings. The good news? Most asphalt issues can be addressed before they turn into costly repairs if you know what to look for.

In this article, we’ll cover the most common asphalt problems, how to identify them early, and why professional services like asphalt sealing services in Fraser Valley and asphalt paving in Chilliwack are key to protecting your investment.

1. Cracks: The First Warning Sign

Cracks are the most obvious and most common indicator that your asphalt needs attention. They typically appear due to:

• temperature fluctuations causing expansion and contraction

• heavy traffic loads stressing the surface

• water infiltration weakening the base layer

How to Spot Them Early:

Look for small, hairline cracks during routine inspections. These may seem harmless, but they can quickly widen and allow water to penetrate, leading to potholes and structural damage. If you notice cracks forming, it’s time to schedule an asphalt sealing service in the Fraser Valley to prevent further deterioration.

2. Potholes: A Safety Hazard

Potholes form when water seeps into cracks, freezes, and expands, breaking apart the asphalt. They’re not just unsightly; they pose serious safety risks for vehicles and pedestrians.

Early Detection Tips:

Before potholes appear, you’ll often see depressions or uneven surfaces. These are early signs that the base layer is compromised. Addressing these issues promptly with asphalt paving in Chilliwack can save you from expensive full-depth repairs later.

3. Ravelling: Surface Wear and Tear

Ravelling occurs when the asphalt binder deteriorates, causing aggregate particles to loosen and scatter. This leads to a rough, uneven surface that accelerates water penetration.

Spotting Ravelling:

Run your hand over the pavement. If you feel loose gravel or notice a sand-like texture, ravelling has begun. This is a clear signal to consider asphalt milling and grinding services, which remove damaged layers and restore a smooth finish.

4. Drainage Issues: The Silent Culprit

Poor drainage is one of the leading causes of asphalt failure. Standing water weakens the pavement structure and speeds up cracking and pothole formation.

How to Identify:

After rainfall, check for puddles that linger longer than a few hours. These low spots indicate improper grading or compromised subbase. Correcting drainage problems early can prevent costly reconstruction.

5. Fading and Oxidation: More Than Cosmetic

Over time, UV rays and oxygen break down the asphalt binder, causing the surface to fade from rich black to dull grey. While this seems like a cosmetic issue, oxidation makes asphalt brittle and prone to cracking.

Prevention:

Regular asphalt sealing service in the Fraser Valley creates a protective barrier against UV rays and moisture, extending the life of your pavement and keeping it looking new.

The Value of Early Intervention

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to major structural failures, higher repair costs, and safety liabilities. Routine inspections and timely maintenance are far more affordable than full replacement.

At Grandview Blacktop, we offer comprehensive solutions including:

• asphalt paving in Chilliwack for new installations and major repairs

• asphalt sealing services in Fraser Valley to protect and extend pavement life

• asphalt milling and grinding for resurfacing projects

• aggregate sales for custom paving needs

Ready to Protect Your Asphalt?

If you’ve noticed cracks, uneven surfaces, or fading pavement, don’t wait until the damage becomes severe. Contact Grandview Blacktop today for expert advice and reliable service. Our team has decades of experience helping municipalities and businesses in the Fraser Valley maintain safe, durable, and attractive asphalt surfaces.

Call us now or request a quote online to schedule your inspection.