Asphalt repairs or patches are usually done when pavement sections begin to fail due to potholes, alligatoring, pumping, or settling as a result of a poor sub-base and/or pavement conditions. The freeze-thaw cycle in northern Illinois has a tendency to take a toll on our roadways.

 

If the road base is still sound, the surface layer can be removed and new surface material installed. In more severe cases with poor base conditions, the surface and binder courses may need to be removed, which results in the area being cored out, resulting in a full depth patch. New gravel must be replaced in the area then a binder or base layer of asphalt must be installed, followed by a new surface course applied. All layers of the repair process must be compacted and rolled into place. The area must be given sufficient time to cool down to ensure proper stiffness before the road is opened for safe travel. 

 

Asphalt repairs are also needed if a water main breaks under the road pavement. The asphalt must be removed to dig down to locate and repair the water main. Back filling of the hole is critical with each layer of gravel needing to be compacted so the road will not settle. If this crucial step is not completed, the road will settle, thus leaving a low spot in the road surface.

 

Asphalt repair is also needed upon the completion of most curb projects. The asphalt adjacent to most curb work needs to be removed so forms can be installed for the concrete to stay in place when pouring. When the concrete forms are removed, asphalt needs to be placed along the new curb line to fill in the voids to ensure both new surfaces are cured, proper pavement drainage is achieved, and ensure safe road and travel conditions.