Frequently Asked Questions
Have basic questions about asphalt? Show Striping Industries has the answers—check out our FAQs to learn more.
FAQs About Types of Asphalt Damage
What is alligator cracking?
Also known as fatigue cracking, alligator cracking is often caused by overloading, which may be a result of the pavement being too thin or a problem with the sub-base.
What is edge cracking?
Edge cracking is a series of cracks that form along the outer edges of asphalt pavement due to poor drainage, lack of support, or heavy traffic loads.
What is longitudinal cracking?
Longitudinal cracking is a type of asphalt pavement distress where cracks run parallel to the road’s centerline, typically caused by poor joint construction, temperature changes, or pavement fatigue.
What are potholes?
Potholes are bowl-shaped depressions in asphalt pavement caused by the weakening of the surface due to water infiltration, freeze-thaw cycles, and repeated traffic stress.
What are depressions?
Depressions are localized low areas in asphalt pavement that collect water, typically caused by poor compaction, underlying soil settlement, or structural failures.
What is base failure?
Base failure is the structural breakdown of asphalt pavement caused by weak or improperly compacted base layers, leading to cracks, rutting, and eventual surface collapse.
FAQs About How Frost Damages Pavement
What is frost action?
Frost action is the cycle of water freezing and thawing within pavement layers, causing expansion, contraction, and structural damage such as cracks and potholes.
What is frost heave?
Frost heave is the upward movement of pavement or soil caused by the expansion of trapped moisture as it freezes, leading to surface distortions and structural damage.
What is thaw weakening?
Thaw weakening is the loss of pavement strength caused by melting ice and moisture saturation in the underlying layers, leading to instability, rutting, and increased susceptibility to damage.
FAQs About Different Types of Asphalt Repair Methods
What is infrared heat patching?
Infrared heat patching is a pavement repair method that uses infrared technology to heat and soften existing asphalt, allowing it to be seamlessly blended with new material for a durable, smooth repair.
What is cold patching?
Cold patching is a temporary asphalt repair method that uses pre-mixed, ready-to-use asphalt to fill potholes and cracks without the need for heating, making it a quick and convenient solution for minor pavement damage.
What is saw cutting?
Saw cutting is a precise method of cutting asphalt or concrete using a specialized saw with a diamond blade, typically used for creating clean edges for repairs, removing damaged sections, or installing joints.
What is fill and compact?
Fill and compact is typically a quick repair solution for certain circumstances where hot mix asphalt is used to fill a pothole or damage area, then shaped and compacted before opening to traffic.
What is milling?
Milling is the process of removing a layer of asphalt pavement using a milling machine to restore surface smoothness, improve drainage, or prepare for resurfacing by creating a textured base for new asphalt to adhere to.
What is a complete re-pave?
A complete re-pave is the process of fully removing and replacing an asphalt pavement surface, including potential base repairs, to restore structural integrity, improve durability, and extend the lifespan of the roadway or parking lot.
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