Your Guide to Asphalt Repairs & Pothole Patching
The UK has over a million potholes in its roads, and they’re the leading cause of breakdowns in our nation. Not only are they unsightly, but potholes are a serious safety risk that need to be fixed as soon as they appear. If you’ve ever wondered how we handle asphalt repairs and pothole patching in Hampshire and West Sussex, this guide will give you everything you need to know.
Asphalt Patching Techniques
First, let’s look at the most common techniques for repairing asphalt and when you should use each one.
Surface Patching
This is the most popular option for residential parking areas and is usually recommended for areas that are cracking but not yet crumbling away. Asphalt glue is added to the area, and hot asphalt is poured directly on top of the surface.
This is the cheapest way to repair a pothole, but it’s only a temporary fix. With a life span of around two years, eventually, the pothole will return and need further measures.
Partial Patching
This method grinds off the top few inches of existing asphalt and replaces it with new. The edges are sealed once the new asphalt is poured to give a nice, even surface.
This method is only possible when the pothole occurs in the surface layer. Any deeper and partial patching won’t work.
Removal & Replacement Patching
For large potholes, this is the best option. Although it’s more expensive, it lasts the longest and gives the best results. The existing asphalt is removed from the surrounding areas down to the sub-based. Then, fresh asphalt is applied in two layers, each getting compacted to give a more stable, permanent patch.
If more than 25% of your car park or road is affected, we usually suggest a total replacement or road resurfacing to give the best results.
Hot vs. Cold Asphalt Patching
Cold patching or cold asphalt repairs are fast and don’t require special heavy rolling machines or applicators. Asphalt is simply shovelled or poured into the pothole and tamped down.
It is a temporary fix, but it is much quicker and easier to achieve. This is a great option if you’re looking for a DIY solution for a private road or driveway.
Hot asphalt lasts much longer, it’s much more durable and gives a more solid base. However, it does require specialist equipment and trained contractors, which makes it a more expensive option.
Looking for Asphalt Repairs in Hampshire and West Sussex?
When you spot a pothole in your car park, forecourt, road, or driveway, call the team at Funnell & Howard. We are a Balfour Beatty partner and the chosen road resurfacing contractors for many businesses, schools, and local authorities throughout the area. We’ll arrange a convenient time to come see the issue and give you a free quote for the asphalt repairs: 01243 389 993