5 Common Asphalt Problems (And How to Fix Them)
Asphalt is one of the most reliable, cost-effective surfaces for driveways, car parks, and commercial spaces but like any material exposed to weather, vehicles, and daily wear, it can develop issues over time.
The good news? Most problems can be repaired quickly and affordably when caught early.
Here are five of the most common asphalt issues property owners face, what causes them, and how to fix them before they become bigger (and more expensive) headaches.
1. Cracks Forming Across the Surface
Cracks are the first sign that your asphalt needs attention. They typically appear due to sun exposure, shifting ground, and water seeping below the surface.
Types of cracks you may notice:
Hairline cracks – small and shallow, usually from ageing
Block cracks – square or rectangular patterns
Edge cracks – found along the outer borders of the surface
How to fix it:
Most cracks can be repaired with crack sealing or patching. This prevents water from entering and helps stop the problem from spreading.
2. Potholes Developing After Rain
Nothing damages vehicles faster or looks worse than a pothole. They form when water weakens the base layers and the asphalt above collapses under pressure.
What causes potholes:
Poor drainage
Untreated cracks
Heavy vehicle loads
Consistent rainfall or flooding
How to fix it:
A professional pothole repair restores the structure from the inside out, ensuring the repaired area is compact, stable, and ready to handle traffic again.
3. Fading and Surface Wear
Over time, asphalt loses its deep black colour and starts looking grey, worn, or dusty. This is caused by UV exposure, oxidation, and general ageing.
Signs your surface is wearing down:
Fading colour
Rough texture
Loose stones or fine gravel
A thin, brittle surface layer
How to fix it:
Sealcoating is the best solution. It renews the surface, restores the dark finish, and creates a protective barrier against sun, spills, and weather.
4. Standing Water on Your Driveway or Car Park
Puddles can look harmless, but they signal a deeper issue. Water should always run off asphalt smoothly as when it pools, it means the levels are uneven or the base has weakened.
Causes of poor drainage:
• Low spots forming over time
• Ground movement
• Incorrect initial installation
• Heavy traffic creating dips
How to fix it:
Levelling or resurfacing the affected area will restore proper drainage and prevent future damage.
5. Crumbling Edges and Weak Borders
Edges take a lot of impact, especially in residential driveways where cars drive across the same areas repeatedly. When the borders are unsupported, they start to crumble or break away.
Why edges fail:
No concrete edge support
Water washing away the sides
Erosion from garden beds
Heavy vehicles parking close to the edge
How to fix it:
Reinforcing the edges and repairing any broken areas stops further deterioration and keeps the structure strong.
Keep Your Asphalt in Great Shape With Regular Maintenance
Most asphalt problems start small but grow quickly if ignored. Regular inspections, crack repairs, and resurfacing when needed can add years to the life of your driveway or car park.
If you’ve noticed any of these issues or just want a professional to take a look then Bitumen Co is here to help.
We provide fast, reliable asphalt repairs and maintenance for homes, businesses, and commercial properties across the region.
Contact Bitumen Co today on 0421 333 728 or email jack@bitumenco.com for a free quote and professional advice on keeping your driveway in top condition, no matter the weather.
