Is Infrared Asphalt Better Than Conventional Patching Techniques?

Key Takeaways

1. Traditional asphalt patching involves excavating the damaged area, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
2. Infrared patching is a quick & easy way to fix small cracks and surface-level damage.
3. Infrared patching is not a permanent solution and cannot fix more severe problems.
4. Whether or not to use infrared asphalt patching comes down to cost and whether you think the benefits are worth the investment.

No one likes potholes, but they can be incredibly frustrating when they appear in your driveway or parking lot. They are a hazard and cause about $3 billion in damage to car owners in the U.S. each year. If you’re not careful, these pesky little craters can cause some severe damage to your property. So what is there to fix them?

Affordable Sealing & Striping, Inc suggests asphalt patching as the best method for fixing potholes. When it comes to repairing asphalt, a few different techniques can be used. Some people opt for the traditional methods, while others may try something more innovative, like infrared asphalt patching.

So, which is better? Let’s explore infrared patching in depth to learn its pros and cons.

Overview of Asphalt Patching Techniques

You may wonder what that even is when you hear the term “Infrared” asphalt patching. Don’t worry; this isn’t some sci-fi method that involves radiant heat down from space to fix your asphalt. It’s a pretty simple process that can produce some great results. Let’s go over what both asphalt patching techniques are:

Conventional Asphalt Patching

Conventional asphalt patching techniques involve digging out the damaged area, filling it with new asphalt, and then compacting it. Although it is an effective technique, the process is time-consuming and disruptive.

Infrared Asphalt Patching

It is a relatively new method for patching asphalt. This method uses a machine to heat the damaged area so that new asphalt can be added. The heat creates a stronger bond between the old and new asphalt, which results in a patch that is as strong as the rest of your pavement.

It is less disruptive because it doesn’t require digging the damaged area. It’s also a faster process, so you can return to using your pavement sooner.

Infrared Asphalt Patching: Pros and Cons

You might understand how infrared patching works, but is it effective? Let’s look at some pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros of Infrared Patching

1. Stronger Bond Formation with Old Asphalt Surface:

Because the process heats the old surface, it creates a stronger bond with the new asphalt.

It results in a patch that is as strong as your pavement and less likely to fail.

2. Faster

It is a relatively fast process compared to conventional asphalt patching. Once the area is prepped, the repair only takes a few minutes. Traditional methods can vary from a few hours to several days, depending on the weather and road conditions.

3. Seamless Repairs

The infrared process fuses the new asphalt with the old, seamless repair. It is opposed to the cold patch method, which often leaves a noticeable “seam” where the old and new asphalt meet.

4. All-Weather Capability

Infrared patching can be performed in nearly any weather condition, hot or cold. Traditional methods are usually limited by temperature and often cannot be done in freezing temperatures or during rain showers.

5. Cost-Effective Solution

Since the repairs are seamless and robust, they last longer, which saves you money in the long run. In addition, the speed of the repairs means that you can open up your road or parking lot to traffic much sooner, saving you money.

6. Precision Repairs

The infrared process allows for exact repairs. It is especially beneficial when repairing potholes. The infrared machine can heat and improve a specific area without disturbing the surrounding pavement.

7. Minimal Disruption

Since no new asphalt needs to be laid down, there is minimal disruption to traffic flow. In addition, there is no need for heavy equipment or a large crew, which further minimizes disruptions.

8. Ecologically Friendly

The infrared process is much better for the environment than traditional methods. There is no need for new asphalt, which means less environmental damage during the repair process.

Cons of Infrared Patching

1. Cannot Fix Complex Cracks

Despite its many advantages, infrared patching is not a silver bullet. It is best suited for small to medium-sized asphalt repairs. Complex cracks or large potholes will still need to be fixed with traditional methods.

2. Temporary Fix

Although it offers a quick fix, it is not a permanent solution. The asphalt will still need to be replaced eventually.

3. Can Only Fix Surface Level Cracks

Infrared patching can only fix surface-level cracks. It cannot reach the deeper layers of asphalt to repair more severe damage.

Is Infrared Asphalt Patching Worth It?

It remains to be seen if infrared patching is worth the investment. There are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not to do it. Its advantages include fixing small cracks and surface-level damage quickly and easily.

However, it is not a permanent solution and cannot fix more severe problems. Ultimately, the decision comes down to cost and whether or not you think the benefits are worth the investment.

Infrared patching is an excellent option if you need a quick fix for small cracks and surface-level damage. But solving more complex problems will require a different solution.

Weigh its pros and cons before deciding on your next repair project.

Also Read: Asphalt Infrared Repair: Making Your Mark In Sustainable Consumption

Final Note

In conclusion, the choice between infrared patching and traditional methods depends on the situation.

Infrared patching has advantages, but it might not be the best solution for every repair job. Be sure to consider all the options you have before making a decision.

Affordable Sealing & Striping Inc is the company to trust if you need commercial or residential repair. We always use the latest technology and methods to provide our customers with sustainable and budget-friendly solutions. We offer infrared asphalt repair as an affordable pavement maintenance option to clients in Cheyenne, WY.

Get in touch with us today to get a free estimate.

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