Rutting in asphalt pavement can be a hazard for motor vehicles and foot traffic in parking lots, driveways, and on roads. These indentations can affect the safety of users, the appearance of the property, and the longevity of paved surfaces.
Basic wear and tear, ultraviolet radiation, fluctuating temperatures, water infiltration, and contact with heavy-weighted vehicles can damage asphalt over time, requiring maintenance and repairs. Rutting is one of the potential safety hazards that form on asphalt pavement due to inadequate material quality and application.
What Is Rutting in Asphalt Pavement?
Pavement rutting is commonly seen on asphalt that is heavily used by large motor vehicles such as commercial trucks. Appearing as grooves or depressions along the “wheel well” of the route, ruts can lead to serious damage to the pavement and hazardous driving conditions. The structural integrity of the asphalt mixture can weaken and soften as these small trenches can collect water and are susceptible to wear and tear.
Types of Rutting in Asphalt Pavement
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Structural Rutting:
If the subbase is weak, it means there is less support for the laid asphalt. Wear and tear, water infiltration, and improper installation methods can cause rutting on the surface, which weakens the interior components of the asphalt.
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Surface Rutting:
Surface-level deformation happens due to inadequate compaction or poor-quality materials. During compaction, the asphalt composition can be altered. As a result, the density and volume of the materials change and can lead to rutting if not properly applied.
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Mix Rutting:
Mix rutting appears as depressions in the wheel path of the traffic route. This affects the surface and composition of the asphalt, not the subbase. Mix rutting can occur if the asphalt mix is poor and cannot withstand heavy traffic loads.
Causes of Rutting in Asphalt Pavement
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Heavy Traffic Loads:
Constant use of heavy-weighted vehicles, such as commercial and delivery trucks, can cause depressions in the asphalt and leave wheel tracks, which affects the surface of the asphalt.
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High Temperatures:
Asphalt responds to fluctuations in temperature, both cold and hot. With warmer weather, the asphalt becomes softer, weakening the structural integrity and causing rutting.
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Inadequate Compaction:
Poor asphalt installation, even if the asphalt is made of high-quality materials, can lead to rutting. Weak compaction during the layering of the asphalt can result in rutting over time.
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Poor Quality of Materials:
The quality of asphalt mixtures is crucial in preventing rutting. Using cheap materials as aggregates or improperly measuring the components can cause the structure and base to be unstable.
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Water and Moisture:
As the asphalt weakens from rutting, there is a greater risk of water infiltration down to the base of the foundation. This can lead to the formation of cracks and potholes.
How to Prevent Rutting in Asphalt Pavement
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Proper Design and Quality Materials:
Choosing durable materials will ensure the asphalt repair is resilient. Using high-quality materials in the composition can strengthen the pavement.
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Adequate Compaction:
Proper compaction methods during installation are crucial to the function and longevity of the asphalt. Rutting occurs due to inadequate compaction and defective materials.
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Routine Maintenance and Inspections:
Regularly inspecting your property for early signs of rutting or distress can prevent rutting from occurring. Addressing these issues immediately can also prevent further complications.
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Traffic Management Strategies:
To prevent damage, limit the use of heavy-weighted vehicles on your property. Putting weight restrictions in place can prevent wear and tear on your asphalt surface.
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Temperature Control During Installation:
When installing new asphalt, make sure the ambient temperature is ideal. Asphalt requires a consistent temperature to prevent cracking and brittleness.
How to Repair Rutting in Asphalt Pavement
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Surface-Level Repairs:
With surface-level repairs or minor rutting damage, only patch work or overlays are required to restabilize the affected area.
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Deep Patching and Full-Depth Reclamation:
Severe damage may require deep patching and full-depth reclamation. In this process, the damaged asphalt is removed and replaced with a complete overlay once the underlying issues are addressed.
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Milling and Resurfacing:
Milling and resurfacing can restore damaged asphalt on roadways, parking lots, and driveways. During this process, the surface layer is removed so deeper issues can be addressed. The edges are levelled and the rut is repaired before the area is resurfaced.
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Cold vs. Hot Mix Repairs:
Cold-patch repairs are considered “quick fixes” when time is an issue or the weather conditions aren’t ideal. Hot mix repairs, however, better address the underlying issues and could save you money on restorations in the long run.
Signs You Need Professional Help for Rutting Issues
If you notice any signs of severe rutting, it’s important to contact a professional repair company immediately. Depressions within the surface of the asphalt can cause serious motor vehicle accidents and personal injuries. It may seem easy enough to repair the rutting yourself, but when it comes to professional rutting repairs vs. DIY repairs, professionals can ensure the job is done right and that the surface is smooth.
Pavement maintenance services that address rutting can save commercial property owners money and time. Severe rutting requires professional repairs to ensure the safety and longevity of the asphalt.
Protect Your Pavement Investment with Sure-Seal Pavement’s Expert Solutions!
At Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc., professional asphalt paving and repairs are our specialty! With more than 30 years in business, we have become the leading commercial paving contractor across the GTA. Our state-of-the-art equipment and industrial-grade products protect and enhance all driveways, parking lots, and roads.
Contact us at (416) 410-3705 or complete this form for a free onsite consultation to repair your rutting asphalt surface.