Asphalt is a durable and cost-effective material used widely across driveways, car parks, and access roads. However, like all surfaces, it won’t last forever. Knowing when your asphalt needs repair, resurfacing, or full replacement is key to maintaining safety, appearance, and functionality. At Camberwell Road Tech in Camberwell, VIC, we help clients assess the condition of their asphalt and make informed decisions that protect their property and investment.
In this post, we’ll explain how to tell which option is right for your asphalt surface, based on signs of wear, underlying damage, and the age of the installation.
Understanding the Three Options
Before diving into the signs, it’s helpful to clarify what each service entails:
- Repairs: Targeted fixes such as patching potholes, sealing cracks, or filling small depressions.
- Resurfacing: Adding a new layer of asphalt over the existing surface. Suitable when the base is still structurally sound.
- Full replacement: Complete removal and reconstruction of the surface and base. Necessary when the structure is beyond repair.
Signs Your Asphalt Needs Repair
Minor surface issues don’t always mean the entire pavement is failing. In many cases, simple repairs will restore both function and appearance.
Look for:
- Small cracks (under 3mm wide)
- Potholes confined to isolated areas
- Oil stains or surface discolouration
- Loose aggregate or slight surface raveling
In Camberwell, regular use by vehicles and exposure to weather can lead to surface wear. Prompt repairs can stop small problems from turning into larger, more expensive ones.
Signs It’s Time for Resurfacing
Resurfacing is a more substantial intervention that involves applying a new asphalt layer over the existing one. It’s often the right choice when damage is widespread but the structural base remains solid.
Look for:
- Widespread shallow cracking (known as alligator cracking)
- Aged, rough or oxidised surface
- Water pooling or uneven drainage
- Multiple patched areas creating an uneven look
At Camberwell Road Tech, we recommend resurfacing when the surface layer has deteriorated, but the underlying foundation is still in good shape. This restores both durability and appearance without the cost of full reconstruction.
Signs You Need Full Asphalt Replacement
When the damage is deep, or the sub-base has failed, repair and resurfacing won’t be enough. Full replacement ensures long-term stability and performance, especially for high-traffic areas or older pavements.
Look for:
- Severe and deep alligator cracking across large sections
- Large depressions and sinking due to sub-base failure
- Frequent pothole reformation even after patching
- Surface older than 20 years and showing consistent structural issues
In Camberwell and surrounding areas, older pavements often suffer from long-term drainage issues or previous poor-quality installations. In such cases, replacement is a worthwhile investment to prevent recurring costs.
Choosing the Right Solution with Camberwell Road Tech
At Camberwell Road Tech, we take the guesswork out of pavement maintenance. We conduct detailed site inspections across Camberwell, VIC to assess the condition of your asphalt and recommend the most appropriate solution—whether that’s a minor repair or a full rebuild.
We provide:
- Accurate assessments based on traffic type and usage
- High-quality repairs using professional-grade materials
- Expert resurfacing that renews worn-out surfaces
- Full replacement services with strong, long-lasting results
Conclusion
Understanding whether your asphalt needs repair, resurfacing, or complete replacement can save you time and money while ensuring the safety and longevity of your surfaces. Don’t wait for small issues to turn into serious damage.
Camberwell Road Tech is your trusted asphalt and bitumen surfacing expert in Camberwell, VIC. Our team is ready to evaluate your pavement and provide honest advice backed by years of experience. Contact us today to book a site assessment or to learn more about our asphalt services.
Call us on: 03 9068 7895
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