Differences Between Asphalt Patching, Peel & Pave, and Mill & Pave
What Is Asphalt Patching?
If you notice minor or localized damage to your asphalt, patching may be the right solution for you. Patching is a common and cost-effective asphalt repair option for surfaces with small cracks, potholes or drainage issues. While affordable, most patches are not a long-term solution for deteriorating asphalt; patching simply slows the spread of damage until removal and replacement can occur. Typically, this is the quickest repair option because of the contained area of damage.
How Our Experts Patch Asphalt
We start every job with a thorough inspection of the target area to determine whether or not patching is the right solution for your asphalt. If so, we’ll clean the repair area of crumbling asphalt and other debris before applying a thin layer of asphalt asphalt binder known as tack coat. This layer helps create a strong bond between your existing asphalt and the fresh patch; it also reduces the likelihood of further cracks or performance issues.
Next, we’ll lay your new asphalt patch. The depth of this patch will range from 1 to 2.5 inches depending on how deep the damage to your asphalt extends. We’ll then compact the patch for a secure fit and allow the asphalt to set before applying a final sealant for extra patch protection.
What is Asphalt Removal and Replacement?
When a simple patch is not enough to repair damage to your asphalt, removal and replacement, or “peel and pave,” may be in order. With up to 10 times the durability of a patch, a peel and pave approach is a longer-term repair option than patching. It’s also more commonly used for larger areas of damage where base failure has occurred.
How Does Peel and Pave Work?
Just like our patching process, removal and replacement starts with a damage assessment. Next, we’ll sawcut the perimeter of the repair area in order to achieve a smooth, even edge before removing the damaged asphalt to a predetermined depth. The depth will vary depending on the extent of existing damage and the load requirements of the surface—we’ll be sure to test the subbase for strength before laying your new asphalt.
Typically, the new asphalt is installed in 2 lifts: a binder course (usually at 3″ deep), followed by a 1″ top course. Again, we’ll ensure a compact fit, allow the asphalt to set, and seal it for enduring use.
What is Mill and Pave?
If the damage to your asphalt is so significant—in either size or depth—that a patch or localized removal and replacement won’t fix the problem, we recommend a mill and pave repair. Milling, or grinding, removes built-up layers of deteriorated asphalt down to a specific depth, making room for a new surface. It is ideal for larger areas of asphalt damage, like aging parking lots, but will likely take more time (and money) to complete than patching or removal and replacement due to the size of the damaged space. Still, it remains a cost-conscious solution to extensive asphalt deterioration.
How Does Mill & Pave Work?
When our experts have determined that a mill and pave approach is best for your asphalt, we’ll begin by grinding the existing asphalt into a tiny, gravel-like material (often called “millings”). The millings are then hauled off-site for recycling. The newly-grinded surface is then layered with tack and set to receive a fresh, smooth coat of asphalt. When the new asphalt is set and sealed, it can endure significant weight and use for years to come.
What Asphalt Repair Option Is Right for Me?
Unsure what work your asphalt surface needs? That’s where we come in. Our experts at Raleigh Paving are skilled in asphalt assessment and restoration, delivering the right paving solution for your timeline—and your budget. Ready to repair your asphalt with the Triangle’s leaders in durable, high-performance paving? Contact us today to get started!
