Camberwell Road Tech | Camberwell, VIC
Proper grading plays a crucial role in the long-term performance and safety of asphalt and bitumen surfaces. When grading is neglected or incorrectly executed, it can lead to a range of structural and environmental issues that affect not just the surface, but the entire property. In Camberwell, where weather patterns and urban layouts demand precision, it’s important to identify early signs of poor grading before they result in costly damage.
Here are 8 key warning signs that your property may be suffering from inadequate grading.
1. Water Pooling After Rain
One of the most visible signs of poor grading is standing water. After rainfall, water should naturally flow away from the surface toward designated drainage points.
If you notice water lingering in low spots or forming puddles:
- The slope may be too flat or uneven
- Water is not being directed to a proper outlet
- The surface may be subsiding or deteriorating beneath
Over time, this can lead to soft spots, erosion, and even sub-base failure.
2. Cracks Appearing in the Surface
When surface water isn’t efficiently drained, it seeps into the layers below. This weakens the foundation and contributes to cracking, especially in bitumen and asphalt surfacing.
Cracks may start small but often widen or spread if the grading issue is not corrected. This is often more pronounced near the edges of the surface or in the centre of pooled areas.
3. Soil Erosion Along Edges
If the surrounding soil is being washed away during rainfall, it may indicate that water is flowing off the surface in unintended directions. Proper grading includes controlling runoff to prevent erosion around hardstands, driveways, or road edges.
In Camberwell’s suburban areas, this can lead to undermined kerbs, garden bed washouts, or damage to adjacent landscaping.
4. Pothole Formation
Repeated water penetration and poor drainage accelerate the formation of potholes. These typically develop where water collects and sits for extended periods.
Potholes not only damage vehicles but also suggest deeper grading problems beneath the surface that need to be addressed promptly.
5. Driveway or Hardstand Feels Uneven
If you’re noticing dips, soft patches, or a general feeling of unsteadiness underfoot or while driving, the grading may have shifted. Subsidence is often caused by poor compaction or water eroding the base layer.
This compromises both the structure and safety of the area.
6. Drainage Systems Overflowing or Blocked
Grading and drainage go hand in hand. If your drains are consistently blocked or overflowing, it’s possible the surface grading is pushing water away from, rather than toward, the intended outlets.
This can lead to:
- Localised flooding
- Blocked pits and grates
- Accelerated wear on drainage infrastructure
7. Water Running Toward the Building
One of the most serious grading faults is directing water toward a structure instead of away from it. If runoff flows toward garages, homes, or commercial buildings, there’s a high risk of internal water damage, rising damp, or structural problems.
All surface grading should be designed to move water safely away from any built structures.
8. Early Surface Wear or Bitumen Shedding
If your asphalt or bitumen surface is deteriorating faster than expected, poor grading may be the root cause. Water that sits too long or flows too quickly over a surface causes binders to break down, leading to premature loss of aggregate and smoothness.
This often results in patchy areas, colour fading, or slippery spots—reducing the lifespan and performance of the surface.
Conclusion
Spotting the signs of poor grading early can save significant time and money down the track. Issues like water pooling, cracking, or uneven surfaces are not just cosmetic—they often point to deeper construction faults that require professional correction.
At Camberwell Road Tech, we ensure every asphalt or bitumen surfacing project in Camberwell is underpinned by precise grading techniques that promote durability, safety, and proper drainage.
If you’re noticing any of these warning signs on your property, contact Camberwell Road Tech to arrange a professional assessment and get your surface back on track.
Call us on: 03 9068 7895
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