Connecticut is known for its frequent freezes and thaws throughout the winter season. This can have a negative impact on a wide variety of structures, and asphalt paving is no exception. It can lead to poor drainage, or, even more frequently, exacerbate existing drainage issues. Some property owners don’t realize this is happening until it’s too late, and they have to repave their entire driveway, tennis court, or other asphalt surface. Below is a run-down of warning signs to look for to help avoid needing more costly water drainage repair in Guilford, CT in the future.
Alligator Cracking
Alligator cracks are a sign of structural failure in asphalt pavement. This is often due to poor drainage, but can also be related to poor initial installation techniques such as weaknesses in the sub grade or base, and laying too thin of a surface layer. The more water continues to sit in these cracks, the worse they will get. It’s best to act as quickly as possible, as a major structural failure, and the potential for dangerous driving conditions, will only become more likely over time. A full-depth patch will be necessary to fix the problem, in addition to addressing any underlying drainage issues.
Edge Cracks
These are less serious than alligator cracks. Similarly, though, they can be caused by a variety of factors. Poor drainage is only the most common condition leading to edge cracks, which can also be the end result of inadequate pavement support, or heavy vegetation along the pavement’s edge putting down roots. The first step toward fixing this problem is to contract water drainage repair in Guilford, CT to prevent additional damage. The cracks must then be sealed or filled, and any vegetation in the area must be removed.
Pot Holes
This dangerous condition is only indirectly caused by poor drainage. It is typically the end result of leaving alligator cracks untreated over prolonged periods of time. Pot holes start as a series of very close-together cracks, which create chunks of pavement that are then dislodged with use. They pose a danger to vehicles, pedestrians, and the surrounding pavement, and should be fixed using a full-depth patch as quickly as possible.
