Frequently Asked Questions

Sealcoating creates a protective barrier that shields asphalt from UV rays, water penetration, and chemical damage from oil and gas. It fills surface voids to prevent oxidation and cracking. At Houston Pavement Repair LLC, we recommend sealcoating every 2-3 years to maximize pavement durability in Houston's intense sun and heat.

An overlay adds a new asphalt layer over existing pavement when the base is still sound, while resurfacing removes the old surface and installs new asphalt. Overlays are more cost-effective for minor wear, but resurfacing is necessary when structural damage or base failure exists.

Pothole repair works well when damage is isolated to specific areas and the surrounding pavement remains structurally sound. If potholes are widespread or the pavement shows extensive cracking and base failure, resurfacing becomes more cost-effective. Prompt pothole repair prevents small issues from expanding into larger problems.

Spalling occurs when water penetrates concrete, freezes and expands, or when salt and chemicals break down the surface layer. Poor installation, insufficient air entrainment, or using deicing salts accelerates spalling. In Houston, TX, spalling typically results from moisture intrusion combined with thermal cycling and surface wear rather than freeze-thaw damage.

Effective drainage directs water away from pavement surfaces and bases, preventing water infiltration that weakens structural layers and causes cracking, potholes, and base erosion. Houston Pavement Repair LLC installs slope adjustments and drainage systems to combat Houston's heavy rainfall and prevent costly water-related pavement failures.

Cost depends on pavement size, damage extent, required services like crack sealing or sealcoating, accessibility, and material needs. Properties needing concrete panel replacement or extensive pothole repair cost more than routine sealcoating. Regular preventative maintenance reduces long-term expenses by avoiding major repairs.

Surface patching and overlaying work well for shallow damage, minor cracking, or surface deterioration when the underlying structure remains intact. Full replacement becomes necessary when concrete shows deep structural cracks, severe spalling, or reinforcement corrosion. At Houston Pavement Repair LLC, we assess damage depth to recommend the most cost-effective solution.

Properly applied crack sealing typically lasts 2-3 years depending on traffic volume, weather exposure, and crack severity. Houston's heat can accelerate sealant degradation, so regular inspections help identify when resealing is needed. Crack sealing prevents water intrusion that leads to potholes and base damage.

Delaying maintenance is the costliest error—small cracks and surface issues quickly escalate into potholes, base failure, and drainage problems requiring expensive repairs. Preventative maintenance like crack sealing and sealcoating costs far less than emergency resurfacing. At Houston Pavement Repair LLC, we recommend regular inspections to catch issues early.

Yes, Houston's extreme heat, high humidity, and heavy rainfall demand proper compaction, adequate drainage, and quality materials that resist oxidation and thermal expansion. Base preparation and slope design are critical to handle intense storms. Houston Pavement Repair LLC adjusts installation methods to account for local weather conditions.

Horizontal separation occurs when soil settlement, tree root growth, or base erosion creates voids beneath concrete slabs, causing sections to shift apart. Poor initial base preparation or expansive clay soils common in Houston also contribute. Repair involves stabilizing the base and filling gaps or replacing affected panels.

Proper site preparation includes excavating to the correct depth, grading for drainage, compacting subgrade soil, and installing a stable aggregate base layer. This foundation supports the asphalt and prevents settling or cracking. At Houston Pavement Repair LLC, we ensure proper base installation for long-lasting paving results.