When your asphalt road or parking lot starts to show wear, it’s time to seek some repairs. Fortunately, asphalt repair is generally fast and affordable with the right planning. These few simple tips are the key to  understanding asphalt repair costs and budgeting your asphalt repairs, both now and in the future.

 Lengthen the Lifespan

One of the first things to consider is the life expectancy of your asphalt. If it’s properly maintained and cared for, you may never need to completely resurface your lot. This can save you money in the long term, so be sure to budget funds for regular repair of minor issues. Consider services such as:

• Crack sealing
• Erosion prevention
• Sealcoating

If you do need to resurface completely, whether due to unexpected damage or neglect, it’s possible to simply pour a new layer over the pre-existing one, rather than tearing up and hauling away the old material.

Your lot may last even longer if it includes a fabric layer for added strength and durability. The additional initial cost pays for itself by giving your asphalt a much longer lifespan. Even if you don’t initially build the lot with fabric reinforcement, you can add this material one section at a time as you do repairs or include a full fabric layer when you resurface the entire lot.

Study Your Schedule

Remember that when doing major repairs on your road or parking lot, you may have to temporarily close your business. You’ll need to factor in that lost revenue when determining the cost of repairs. The good news is that asphalt repairs don’t take very long. If you regularly maintain your lot, our experienced asphalt crew can usually complete repair jobs in a few hours, depending on the project at hand.

Asphalt doesn’t require time to cure after it’s poured, so it’s ready to go pretty much as soon as the construction crew leaves. This means that you may be able to schedule your repairs during off-hours, such as evenings or weekends, to have the lot ready for use again by the time you would regularly reopen. You can also schedule the project in sections, working on one part of your parking lot or road at a time and leaving the rest free for normal operation.

If your repairs will take more than one day, remember to factor work zone safety into your business plans. You don’t want customers walking or driving through active construction, so even if you could technically remain open, you may still want to close or shorten your business hours for the protection of your customers.

Customize the Cost

Obviously, when you’re planning your budget, you should consider the actual cost of the repairs themselves. Asphalt is one of the more affordable options for repairs compared to other construction materials, but the total cost of your repairs will depend on your needs. Prices may vary based on the size of the affected area, the depth to which the damage extends, and whether it affects the integrity of the rest of the lot. You may also need to determine if there will be additional costs for work zone safety precautions such as signage and additional personnel.

Remember that the more often you patch and maintain your lot, the less it will likely cost you in the long run. Small repairs are much easier and faster than complete overhauls, so as soon as you spot damage or distress, contact Sunland Asphalt to discuss options. You may be able to put off the repairs for a little while, but the deeper the damage is, the more it may cost you to fix.

If you have limited budget options, don’t get discouraged. There are companies that will work with you to help you find the best solution within your funding limits. It may mean phasing projects or prioritizing certain repair or upkeep tasks, but as long as you’re realistic in your expectations, you should be able to work with your construction company to find a solution. Ultimately though, the best way to determine project costs is to contact an actual asphalt construction company. Sunland Asphalt offers free estimates, so don’t hesitate to call.

Asphalt repair and maintenance doesn’t have to break the bank. Remember to set aside regular funds to care for any distress or damage you may find, and contact the experts at Sunland Asphalt for a customized repair plan that fits your budget.