You have a pothole, or a crack, or a worn-out section of asphalt, and you want it fixed. This sounds simple enough. It is not always simple. As a local Asphalt Contractor in Everett, I have seen many Asphalt Patching projects go wrong for homeowners. This happens right here in Everett, from the busy streets near the Mall to the quieter neighborhoods by Forest Park. It is usually not because people are trying to cut corners. It is because they do not know what to look out for. We will talk about some of the most common mistakes that we see. We will also talk about how you can avoid them.
Ignoring the Root Cause
This is probably the biggest mistake. A pothole is not just a hole. It is a symptom. Often, it means there is a problem underneath. This problem could be a weak base as well as drainage issues. Just filling the hole without addressing what caused it in the first place is like putting a band-aid on a broken leg. It might look okay for a little while. It is going to fail, and probably sooner rather than later.
- Red Flag: An Asphalt Contractor who only talks about filling the visible damage is a red flag. They do not ask about the history of the area, or drainage, or how deep the problem goes.
- What to do: You should ask them about the sub-base. How will they prepare it? Will they be compacting the underlying material? A proper Asphalt Patching repair often involves cutting out the damaged section. It also involves making sure the base is solid. Then they will lay new asphalt.
Hiring Based Solely on the Lowest Bid
We understand that everyone wants a good deal. But when it comes to Asphalt Patching in Everett, the cheapest bid can often be the most expensive in the long run. We have seen too many homeowners regret going with the lowest price. This is because the work failed quickly. They then had to pay someone else to fix the fix. This often means they call us at Valley Asphalt Solutions.
- Red Flag: A bid that is much lower than all other bids is a red flag. This is especially true if the Asphalt Contractor is pushing for cash payment. It is also a red flag if they claim to have 'leftover materials' from another job.
- What to do: You should get multiple quotes for your Asphalt Patching project. Do not just compare prices. Compare what is included in that price. Ask for references and check online reviews for the Asphalt Contractor. Make sure they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State.
Not Preparing the Area Properly (or Letting Your Contractor Skip It)
Asphalt Patching is not just dumping asphalt in a hole. The area needs to be clean, and dry, and properly edged. If there is debris, or dirt, or standing water, the new patch will not bond correctly. It will break apart. Our team at Valley Asphalt Solutions makes sure to prepare the area correctly for all Asphalt Patching jobs in Everett.
- Red Flag: A crew that starts Asphalt Patching without thoroughly cleaning out the pothole or crack is a red flag. It is also a red flag if they try to lay asphalt over wet areas.
- What to do: You should make sure the Asphalt Contractor cleans and dries the area completely. They should also cut the edges of the damaged asphalt cleanly. This creates a stable perimeter for the new patch.
Ignoring the Weather
Our Pacific Northwest weather is an important factor here in Everett. Laying asphalt in cold or wet conditions is a recipe for disaster. Asphalt needs to be warm to adhere properly. Water underneath or during application will prevent a strong bond. This is important for all Asphalt Patching work.
- Red Flag: An Asphalt Contractor who insists on Asphalt Patching when it is raining is a red flag. It is also a red flag if temperatures are consistently below 50°F.
- What to do: Plan your Asphalt Patching projects for warmer, drier months. This is typically late spring through early fall in Everett. Some temporary cold-mix patches exist. These are usually just temporary solutions.
Not Understanding Different Patching Methods
There is not a single solution for every asphalt problem. A small surface crack needs a different approach. This is different from a deep pothole. It is also different from an area with significant 'alligator cracking.' Using the wrong method means the repair will not last. Valley Asphalt Solutions understands these different methods for Asphalt Patching.
- Red Flag: An Asphalt Contractor who only offers one type of patching solution for every problem you point out is a red flag.
- What to do: You should ask about different methods like