The durability of asphalt paving makes it a great choice for everything from public roads to private projects like driveways and patios. However, damage eventually sets in even when the asphalt surface is sealed and properly maintained over the years. At some point, only a more involved repair process like resurfacing will keep the paved area level and intact. Knowing what kind of damage is best repaired with resurfacing will help you decide when it's the right time for more than just another round of patching and sealing.

Sunken Areas and Potholes

Small holes are somewhat easy to patch, at least when they first appear. Yet leveling out more subtly sunken areas requires a more aggressive approach like resurfacing. If the materials serving as the base of the asphalt wash out or compact over time, the top surface can slump down and collect water when it rains. Potholes are actual holes through the asphalt, but they cause just as many or more problems as sunken areas. These holes should be reinforced before the resurfacing, but when repaired properly, they'll disappear under the new layer of asphalt when it goes on.

Extensive and Deep Cracking

As long as the sections of asphalt are still in place and not too small, even extensive cracking can be fixed with a resurfacing project. Since a few inches of new asphalt are added to the top of the paved surface, the cracks fill in and disappear during the process. As with potholes, large or deep cracks are best filled and patched first. This prevents the new layer of asphalt from either slumping into the cracks to fill them or telegraphing the same stress to the new surface.

Stains and Fading

Patching and making other small repairs leaves darker areas of fresh material while the rest of the asphalt grows lighter with age. After a while, the driveway or patio can take on a patchwork look from all of the repair work over the years. For a seamless look once again, the resurfacing process includes removing the first layer of the asphalt. Once the new material is in place instead, it's often impossible to tell the paved area isn't brand new. You won't have to worry about any stubborn old stains or uneven fading of the asphalt. Instead, you get a shiny and smooth black surface to admire and an extended lifespan for your driveway or patio.

For more information on resurfacing, contact a professional near you.