Tag Archives: Potholes

Frequently Asked Questions About Potholes and Pothole Repair

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If you are noticing a development of potholes on your commercial or industrial lot, it is important to act and contact a professional Indianapolis paving company for inspections, recommendations, and service. In the meantime, continue reading to review some of the most fundamental questions about potholes, and perhaps gain a better understanding about the problems associated with having unresolved pavement damage.

Indiana Commercial Pothole Repair and Emergency Road Repair 317-549-1833
Indiana Commercial Pothole Repair and Emergency Road Repair 317-549-1833

Pothole Repair FAQS You Do Not Want to Ignore

Potholes are one of the most common damages to asphalt and concrete pavements. They can range in size, depth, and shape, and fluctuate in expansion rates depending on a variety of factors, including traffic rates, weather patterns, ground soil, water drainage, and natural wear and tear. Potholes require immediate repair since they will only continue to expand and worsen as time goes continues. Below are the most frequent questions commercial proprietors ask about their lots and pavements, especially once all the ice and snow melts away in Spring.

What Causes Potholes?

Potholes are created by excess moisture in asphalt and concrete pavements. This is usually a result of snow, ice, and rain. Porous pavements, like concrete, lose their protective coating after a few years as a result of natural wear and tear. The same can happen to asphalt paving as well. When this happens, they become vulnerable to water accumulation in their pores. Accumulated water then freezes and thaws from season to season, causing pavement to deteriorate from within. This leads to pavement cracks, fractures, fissures, and more.

How are Potholes Repaired?

The top 3 most common methods used to repair or patch up potholes include using cold asphalt, hot asphalt, and polyurethane asphalt. Cold asphalt is mixed and poured at a lower temperature than other asphalt mixes. It is also easy to work with and low in cost. Hot asphalt is a common choice for larger-scale pothole repairs because it is less available in smaller quantities. It is mixed and poured at an average temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Polyurethane asphalt is customary option for pothole patching because they last a long time, which is cost-effective for property owners. So long as the asphalt mix can be properly dried, it can be used all year round, in any season.

Do Potholes Damage Cars?

There are a few indications that point toward pothole damage in a vehicle. As a car or truck owner, you want to keep an eye for tire punctures, bent rims, scraped wheels, suspension troubles, exhaust system troubles, poor steering, and any other physical exterior damages. Strange noises from the engine, engine complications, and a bouncy ride can all be warning signs of pothole damage.

Can Potholes Be Repaired in the Winter?

The process of repairing potholes and other surface defects in asphalt is generally performed during warmer seasons because a hot mix product is used to fill in gaps and openings in damaged pavements. However, winter cold patching makes it possible to repair asphalt potholes in the winter, effectively. Also known as cold tar patching, this method of asphalt pothole repair works well in colder temperatures because the actual product is designed with special polymers that render it ready-to-use at all times.

Do I Need to Repair the Potholes on My Property?

Potholes are a big problem for many reasons. Not only can they cause damage vehicles and cause serious car accidents, but they can also reduce property value, compromise company profit, and even pose safety hazards to people. Proper pothole repair is critical in order to protect your investment and achieve the long-lasting pavement stability you desire.

What are the Best Methods for Pothole Prevention?

Pothole prevention starts with a trusted paving company that knows how to assess an area and provide proper pavement installation, taking into consideration subgrades, water drainage, risk factors, and more. If pavement is not installed and laid properly, it will immediately show signs of defects and instability. Improper pavement installation will surely lead to an increase in pothole formation, and costly pothole repair.

Do you need a few potholes and similar seasonal pavement damages resolved in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pothole repair and winter cold patching services at the best rates in town.

You Should Also Read:

Why is Proper Pothole Repair So Important?
Can I Repair a Pothole Myself?
How Will Snow Affect My Pavements?

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

Will Salt Damage Asphalt Pavement?

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Whether they have been there for years or you have just recently paved, your asphalt surfaces are an important investment. As a result of the recent snow, you might be asking yourself whether or not you should be applying salt to rid the ice and slush. If you are, you are not alone. Many people worry that throwing salt on asphalt will damage it or cause it to deteriorate. Before tossing out all of your supply, continue reading to learn the real facts about the affects of salt and similar de-icing agents might have on asphalt.

Salt and Reagents are Mostly Safe to Use on Asphalt Pavements.

What You Need to Know About Applying Salt to Asphalt

The truth about snow melting and de-icing salts is that they will not deteriorate or damage your asphalt pavement, nor will they cause potholes to form. However, such salts can cause line striping and road markings to fade more quickly, over time, as well as pose certain environmental risks of not handled and applied properly.

Protect the Environment

When using salts on pavements, it is important to consider the environmental impact it can have on the surrounding Eco-system. To prevent water runoff contamination, be cautious when applying your salt by using it sparingly, and always shoveling snow away first.

Don’t Worry About Potholes

Applying salt on asphalt should not cause it to deteriorate or crack, which means you do not have to be concerned about pothole formation come spring. Potholes develop as a result of annual freeze-thaw cycles, which occurs when water trapped inside pavement pores freezes in the winter, and then thaws in the spring. When water inside pavement freezes, it causes the pavement to expand. When the water thaws, the pavement contracts, which leads to cracks and other ground stability issues.

Salt is Essentially Safe for Asphalt

It is a common misunderstanding that salt will damage asphalt. So long as your asphalt was laid by a trusted and certified Indianapolis asphalt paving company, your asphalt surfaces should be fully-resistant to any potential affects salt and other minerals can have on them. Furthermore, it is important to have asphalt seal coated, and then resealed every three to five years; otherwise, you could start to see pavement deterioration.

Where to Get Superior Asphalt Service in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed, bonded, and insured commercial asphalt paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of paving services for commercial and industrial properties, at the most competitive prices in town, including pothole repair and winter cold patching work. Request a free quote, today.

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

Why it is So Important to Repair Potholes as Soon as Possible

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Although it’s not prime pothole season, they are still a problem that can arise at any time of the year. This fall season, you can ensure that your commercial property’s pavements remain in good condition well into next year by repairing any potholes or surface damages before winter hits.  Continue reading to learn the importance of pothole repair for commercial complexes and municipal roadways.

Commercial Pothole Repair in Central Indiana 317-549-1833
Commercial Pothole Repair in Central Indiana 317-549-1833

The Basics of Pothole Formation

Potholes are created by excess moisture in asphalt and concrete pavements. This is usually a result of snow, ice, and rain. Porous pavements, like concrete, lose their protective coating after a few years as a result of natural wear and tear. The same can happen to asphalt paving as well. When this happens, they become vulnerable to water accumulation in their pores. Accumulated water then freezes and thaws from season to season, causing pavement to deteriorate from within. This leads to pavement cracks, fractures, fissures, and more.

Water can seep deep down into the cracks and pores of pavement and weaken the base soil beneath it. It can then freeze and melt several times over further jeopardizing the ground level and solidity. When water freezes, the ground underneath expands, causing the pavement to rise. Once the water thaws, the ground goes back to normal but the pavement it still elevated. Naturally, this creates stability issues that eventually lead to crumbling pavement or crater holes. So, you see, the need to repair potholes in our city’s streets and roadways will never fade.

Potholes Can Quickly Lead to Disastrous Pavement Damages

There are various types of pothole repair methods used in the pavement construction industry, both semi-permanent and temporary versions. One of the most popular techniques used to repair potholes is the “throw and roll” method. This is a temporary fix that basically involves patching the hole with the right material, and then letting traffic drive over it to finish the job. This is the quickest and easiest technique for repairing a pothole on a short-term basis. In fact, it can cause even more water accumulation and stability issues if used as a permanent solution. This is because the pothole is only being filled-in from the top; which means the rocks and pebbles still inside creating gaps beneath the surface where water can occupy. To make the “throw and roll” repair method semi-permanent, these chunks of rock and pavement need to be removed before the hole is filled with patching material.

Infrared Pothole Technology is a Great Solution for Asphalt Damages

For an even more permanent solution, many pavers are turning to a new pothole repair technique called infrared heat technology. In this method, a heat panel is used to melt a pothole enough to soften it slightly. This allows all the crumbled and broken asphalt in and around the pothole to be converted into a reusable material. This is Eco-friendly and cost-effective. The softened asphalt leftovers are raked-in and smoothed out until it is thoroughly conformed to the repaired asphalt and the existing surrounding asphalt. This creates a strong, thermal bond between both pavements.

Indianapolis Indiana Pothole Repair for Commercial and Industrial Clients

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for more information about commercial pothole repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, winter cold patching, and more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

Can I Repair a Pothole Myself?

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There is no argument about it, potholes are menacing. They are especially undesirable to have on or near your own property. But whether you are a commercial or residential property owner, it is not wise to attempt pothole repair on your own. Continue reading to learn more about pothole management, including how they form and why you should always hire a professional to have them repaired.

Indianapolis Pothole Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Pothole Repair 317-549-1833

The Basics of Pothole Formation

Pothole formation begins when water seeps into existing cracks and depressions in pavement that have been caused by a combination of inclement, weather, traffic, and natural wear and tear. Water then reacts with the cold temperatures by freezing and subsequently expanding. Then, when temperatures become milder, the water thaws, causing the existing cracks to contract and ultimately worsen.

This worsening is due to water draining and evaporating into the surface, causing a gap to form between the ground and the pavement. The more this cycle occurs, the larger the surface blemishes get, and eventually form what we frustratingly know as potholes. Both asphalt and concrete surfaces are vulnerable to these effects, including sidewalks, parking lots, roads, streets, pool decks, and more.

Conventional Pothole Repair Methods

There are various types of pothole repair methods used in the pavement construction industry, both semi-permanent and temporary versions. One of the most popular techniques used to repair potholes is the “throw and roll” method. This is a temporary fix that basically involves patching the hole with the right material, and then letting traffic drive over it to finish the job. This is the quickest and easiest technique for repairing a pothole on a short-term basis.

In fact, it can cause even more water accumulation and stability issues if used as a permanent solution. This is because the pothole is only being filled-in from the top, which means the rocks and pebbles still inside creating gaps beneath the surface where water can occupy. To make the “throw and roll” repair method semi-permanent, these chunks of rock and pavement need to be removed before the hole is filled with patching material.

DIY Pothole Repair

As you can see, there are many specialized materials, machines, and technologies used to ensure pothole repair is finished up to code, and lasts a long time. If you attempt to repair a pothole yourself, you are not promised long-lasting results. Furthermore, you would have to spend more money acquiring the necessary materials and supplies for the job. It is more cost-effective to hire a professional pavement repair company to fill in potholes. They will do the job right the first time, so that you do not have to address it again in the future.

As for business owners, hiring professionals is a must. Fortunately, commercial asphalt repair is more affordable than most people believe, and you can find reputable commercial pavement repair services in a matter of minutes. Just be sure to choose a company that is licensed and insured, with years of experience and training. They can offer competitive rates and free estimates, saving you hundreds of dollars along the way.

Commercial Paving Contractors in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pothole repair and paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified contractors provide several asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, winter cold patching, and more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.

Why Pothole Repair Should Be at the Top of Your Priority List

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Although spring has had a strong start this year, allowing us to enjoy brighter, greener days, those damaging potholes left over from winter are still depriving drivers of a safe and comfortable commute. It is vital to repair potholes as soon as they form, and even prior to forming. Not only does pothole repair support safety, function, and convenience, it also supports economic growth, cost-savings, and investment protection.

Continue reading to learn why you, as a commercial or municipal proprietor, should outsource professional pothole repair service as soon as your pavements begin to show signs of cracking and deterioration.

Indianapolis Pothole Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Pothole Repair 317-549-1833

The Importance of Pothole Repair

Potholes are arguably one of the biggest issues in metropolitan areas among commuters. To make matters more serious, potholes get worse as time goes on. So, if a pothole is not repaired, it will only continue to get bigger, and eventually it will evolve into a massive crumbling hole. Potholes are created by excess moisture in asphalt and concrete pavements. This is usually a result of snow, ice, and rain.

Porous pavements, like concrete, lose their protective coating after a few years as a result of natural wear and tear. The same can happen to asphalt paving as well. When this happens, they become vulnerable to water accumulation in their pores. Accumulated water then freezes and thaws from season to season, causing pavement to deteriorate from within. This leads to pavement cracks, fractures, fissures, and more.

Pothole Repair

As soon as you see signs of pothole formation, it is important to have your pavements inspected and serviced to inhibit further damage and deterioration. From there, is it essential to protect your pavements from damage with regular cleaning, maintenance, and most importantly, sealcoating. See our blog, “Frequently Asked Questions about Sealcoating” to learn what you need to know about protecting your pavements. The most common signs that suggest your pavements will soon form potholes are water retention and puddling, cracking, crumbling pavement, loose gravel, and lack of seal coat.

The process of repairing and patching up potholes can differ slightly depending on certain variables, such as the condition of the pavement, the type of pavement, extent of damage, and more. For most paving repair projects, the process involves a general pattern of steps. A paving company will always start with a full inspection of the damaged pavement to provide an accurate assessment. This allows them to then plan the pothole patching process according to your property’s unique needs.

Commercial Pothole Repair Services in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional pothole repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.

Standard Pothole Replacement Patch Process

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Potholes are not just strikes against your investment as a commercial property owner, they are also deplorable eyesores that can damage vehicles and even jeopardize driving safety. For this reason, pothole repair is imperative in terms of investment protection, property value, and general liability. If your commercial pavement requires pothole repair, it is important to act fast before the damages get worse, and subsequently, more expensive to reverse.

Continue reading to familiarize yourself with the standard process of pothole patching and better understand what to expect from your
paving contractors.

Pothole Repair Indianapolis 317-549-1833
Pothole Repair Indianapolis 317-549-1833

Pothole Repair

The process of repairing and patching up potholes can differ slightly depending on certain variables, such as the condition of the pavement, the type of pavement, extent of damage, and more. But for most paving repair projects, the process involves a general pattern of steps. It is always best to talk to your local paving company for a comprehensive understanding of your individual pothole repair needs.

Getting Started

A paving company will start with a full inspection of the damaged pavement to provide an accurate assessment. This allows them to then plan the pothole patching process according to your property’s unique needs.

A team of pavers will then outline all the areas that require patching using squares or rectangles with 1 foot dimensions. Using a pavement saw or pneumatic hammer, they will precisely carve along the outlined areas using straight and vertical extractions. This will create perfectly even, 90-degree edge holes. The pavers will remove as much material as needed to create a strong and even foundation. This might involve removing some sub-grade as well.

Once the hole and foundation are exposed after carving, the sub-grade must then be prepared for patching. This involves fully compacting, trimming, and flattening out the sub-grade. If the foundation is not just as strong as the surrounding pavement or roadway, the replacement patch will not work.

Next, pavers generally apply a tack coat onto the exposed vertical sides of the excavated holes before filling each hole with asphalt or concrete pavement material. Depending on the depth of the excavated hole and the type of pavement replacement material being used, the amount of filler needed per hole will vary. After compaction, there should not be a difference in elevation between the new and existing pavement.

When the material is poured into the hole, crews will then rake the filler from edge to center, until the hole is evenly filled. Afterwards, compaction equipment is used to perfectly compress, merry, and melt the filler material until it’s a smooth, level surface.

For smaller holes, a vibratory plate compactor is often used, whereas larger jobs typically require a vibratory roller. After the process is complete, pavers will check the vertical alignment for even elevation using a straightedge or string line.

Indianapolis Pothole Repair Company You Can Trust

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional pothole repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.