The UV rays from the sun breakdown the carbon bonds in the asphalt oil thus causing the colour change from black to gray. It is that oil that binds everything in the asphalt together so when it is depleted erosion starts, some sand particles at first and then larger pebbles to stones then with water infiltration it is all downhill from there. This is oil also what keeps the asphalt flexible. So when the asphalt is gray and oxidized it is less flexible and more prone to cracking.

Asphalt is comprised of roughly 95% varying sized aggregates and 5% black asphalt cement. It is natural to expect a variation in the surface texture of the asphalt between loads and in different areas of a paved surface.

Scuffing of newly paved surfaces is inevitable given the nature of asphalt and our hot weather. Scuffs are just the sand being displaced and will wash away. After a month those scuff marks are rarely noticeable. Please note that asphalt requires 6 months to fully cure. Until then it is tender and you should be careful. Avoid tight turns, and turning the steering wheel when the vehicle is not moving. Avoid sudden stops if you can.

It is usually one of the following: inadequate thickness of the pavement section to support the loads that travel across the asphalt, lack of maintenance, and weak or unstable subgrade components.

Asphalt deteriorates when weather and traffic wear “fines” aggregates away. When the “fines” are worn away, there is nothing to bind the larger aggregates together and the surface begins to ravel. This weakens the pavement section and eventually allows water to penetrate the subgrade, which leads to pavement failure.

Possible causes of potholes include asphalt that was too thin, base failure under heavy loads or poor drainage that weakens the subgrade and base. Poor quality (segregation in the asphalt, poor compaction, or asphalt that was burnt or did not have enough oil mixed into it) may be a contributing factor.

Usually, excessive deflection of the pavement causes alligator cracking. This is due to an unstable base or repeated traffic loads heavier than what the road was built to withstand. If this cracking is not addressed it will expand and cause more damage.

Edge cracks are usually caused because there is not enough support next to the road or the base has washed out. You should avoid driving on the edge. If cracking is severe then it may have to be cut out and replaced.