Common Road Surfacing Problems and How to Fix Them

Proper surfacing of roads, driveways, and car parks is essential for safety, durability, and visual appeal. Yet even the best surfaces can suffer over time. Here are the most frequent problems and what to do about them—from minor patching to full restoration.

1. Cracking

Types & Causes:

• Crocodile (Alligator) Cracking: Network of interlacing cracks, signifying structural failure often due to poor base support or drainage issues  .
• Block Cracking: Rectangular or square patterns caused by temperature fluctuations and aging materials  .
• Slippage Cracking: Crescent-shaped cracks from poor bonding between layers (e.g. new asphalt over poorly prepared base)  .

Repairs:

• Crack Sealing: Clean the crack and apply flexible hot rubberized sealant to prevent moisture ingress  .
• Overlay or Patching: For widespread cracking, apply an asphalt overlay or full-depth patch after structurally sound prep  .

2. Potholes

Causes:

• Water weakens the sub-base, and repeated traffic loads cause surface breakage—especially problematic in freeze–thaw climates  .
• Often initiate from unchecked fatigue cracking (like crocodile cracking)  .

Repairs:

• Patching Techniques:
  • Throw-and-roll: Quick and cost-effective for temporary fix.
  • Spray Injection: Efficient and durable with tack coat and aggregate fill.
  • Semi-permanent: Precise edge prep, hot-mix fill, and compaction  .

3. Surface Deterioration and Raveling

Causes:

• Loss of surface aggregate due to aging mix or poor initial composition, exacerbated by traffic and weather  .

Repairs:

• Skin Patching: Clean the area; apply emulsion and fresh asphalt layer  .
• Resurfacing (Overlay): Apply new layer across broader areas—ideal when base is stable  .

4. Structural Failures (Rut, Depressions, Base Weakness)

Causes:

• Weak sub-base, undermined drainage, and heavy traffic degrade support, causing deformations.

Repairs:

• Milling & Resurfacing: Remove the damaged surface and replace with fresh asphalt, restoring smoothness and thickness  .
• Full Depth Patching/Reconstruction: Remove and rebuild failed sections from sub-base up  .

5. Preventative Maintenance

• Sealcoating: Protects surface from oxidation, UV, and water; helps prevent future cracks  .
• Routine Inspections: Catch early wear—like small cracks—then repair before they evolve.
• Ensure Good Drainage: Mitigate water damage with proper slopes and stormwater management  .

Summary Table

Turn Issues into Solutions with Total Surfacing

At Total Surfacing, we offer tailored solutions—from minor crack sealing and pothole patching to full resurfacing and structural repairs. Whether you’re facing localized damage or widespread deterioration, our team delivers durable results with minimal disruption.

If the surfacing on your driveway, car park, or road is showing signs of wear, don’t wait until small issues become major. Get in touch today for a free survey, expert advice, and a no-obligation quote.

In Closing

Awareness and prompt action are your best defenses against road surface degradation. With careful maintenance, proper repairs, and professional workmanship from Total Surfacing, your paved areas can stay safe, functional, and visually appealing for years to come.