Top 4 Signs It’s Time to Call an Asphalt Paving Company

January 12, 2026

Maintaining paved surfaces is an essential part of protecting your property’s safety, appearance, and long-term value. Driveways, parking lots, and access roads endure constant stress from daily traffic, harsh weather, and the natural wear and tear of time. Even small cracks or surface imperfections can quickly develop into larger problems if left unaddressed. Yet, many property owners wait until damage becomes obvious or severe before considering repairs, often resulting in more extensive and costly work.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs not only preserve the aesthetic appeal of your property but also help prevent hazards like tripping or vehicle damage. Proactive care can save money in the long run, reduce disruptions, and extend the lifespan of your paved surfaces. Recognizing early warning signs is key to avoiding major issues, and knowing when to contact an asphalt paving company ensures that problems are addressed professionally and efficiently. By paying attention to the condition of your pavement, you can maintain a smooth, safe, and visually appealing surface for years to come. Explore four clear signs that indicate it may be time to take action.

1. You Spot Widespread Cracking

Cracks are often the first visible sign that asphalt is under stress. While a few small hairline cracks may seem harmless, widespread cracking usually signals deeper structural issues beneath the surface. These openings allow water to penetrate the pavement, weakening the base layers and accelerating deterioration with each freeze and thaw cycle.

Over time, cracked asphalt becomes less flexible and more prone to breaking apart. According to AsphaltPro Magazine, about 75% of asphalt cracks will become potholes within just three years if they aren't addressed. This progression highlights why early intervention is critical. Calling an asphalt paving company when cracking first appears can prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs.

Ignoring widespread cracking also creates safety concerns. Uneven surfaces increase the risk of trips, falls, and vehicle damage, particularly in high-traffic areas. Prompt professional attention helps restore a smooth, safe surface while protecting the integrity of the pavement.

Seasonal temperature changes often make cracking worse, especially in regions with hot summers and cold winters. As asphalt expands and contracts, existing fractures widen and multiply, accelerating surface breakdown. Traffic load further stresses these weak points, particularly in parking lots and drive lanes that see daily use. Addressing cracking early helps stabilize the surface before these environmental factors compound the damage.

2. You See Standing Water After Rainfall

After a heavy rain, your asphalt surface should drain efficiently, leaving little to no standing water. Persistent puddles are a strong indicator that the pavement has settled unevenly or that the underlying base has shifted. Poor drainage puts additional strain on asphalt, causing it to soften and degrade faster than expected.

Standing water accelerates wear by seeping into small cracks and joints. As moisture penetrates the surface, it weakens the foundation and can lead to rutting or depressions that grow worse over time. These low spots collect even more water, creating a cycle of damage that becomes increasingly difficult to reverse.

When drainage problems persist, it is often time to consult an asphalt paving company. Professionals can assess whether regrading, resurfacing, or structural repairs are needed to restore proper water flow and prevent further deterioration. Addressing drainage issues early protects both the pavement and the surrounding property.

Beyond pavement damage, standing water can affect nearby landscaping and foundations if left unresolved. Water that consistently pools can overflow into adjacent areas, eroding soil and creating additional maintenance concerns. In commercial settings, puddles also create inconvenience for customers and employees, especially during colder months when water can freeze overnight. Improving drainage supports both pavement performance and overall site functionality.

3. You Notice Fading, Raveling, and Surface Wear

Asphalt naturally fades over time due to exposure to sunlight and the elements. While some discoloration is normal, excessive fading combined with a rough, grainy texture is a sign of raveling. This occurs when the asphalt binder wears away, causing loose aggregate to break free from the surface.

Raveling weakens the pavement and reduces its ability to withstand traffic loads. As the surface deteriorates, it becomes more vulnerable to cracks, moisture intrusion, and pothole formation. Vehicles may also experience reduced traction, particularly during wet conditions, increasing safety risks.

Professional evaluation can determine whether sealing, resurfacing, or replacement is the best solution. An experienced asphalt paving company can recommend treatments that restore flexibility, improve appearance, and extend the pavement’s usable life before more serious damage occurs.

Surface wear also impacts how a property is perceived. A rough, worn asphalt surface can make an otherwise well-maintained property appear neglected. This is especially important for businesses where curb appeal influences customer confidence and first impressions. Restoring the surface not only improves durability but also helps maintain a clean, professional appearance.

4. You Make Frequent Repairs With Little Improvement

If you find yourself repeatedly patching the same areas without lasting results, it may be a sign that the pavement has reached the end of its functional lifespan. Frequent repairs can become costly and disruptive, especially when they fail to address underlying structural problems.

Temporary fixes often mask deeper issues such as base failure or widespread deterioration. While patching may offer short-term relief, it rarely provides a long-term solution for aging asphalt. At this stage, continuing to repair isolated areas can be less cost-effective than investing in comprehensive rehabilitation.

Consulting an asphalt paving company allows you to explore options such as full-depth repairs or resurfacing that provide lasting value. A thorough assessment helps determine whether replacement is the most practical path forward, saving time and money in the long run.

Ongoing repairs can also disrupt normal operations for homes and businesses alike. Constant patching often requires frequent closures or restricted access, which can frustrate occupants and visitors. Over time, the inconvenience alone may outweigh the perceived savings of avoiding larger repairs. A long-term solution can reduce interruptions while delivering more predictable maintenance outcomes.

Understanding these four warning signs empowers property owners to make informed decisions about pavement maintenance and overall property care. Cracking, standing water, surface wear, and repeated repairs are not just cosmetic issues: they're signals that your pavement may be at risk of more serious damage. Addressing these problems early can prevent small concerns from turning into major disruptions that compromise safety, accessibility, and the overall usability of your property.

Partnering with a reliable asphalt paving company ensures that your pavement receives professional evaluation and the right solution at the right time. Experienced contractors can identify hidden issues, recommend cost-effective repairs, and implement preventative measures that extend the life of your asphalt surfaces. With proactive care and professional guidance, you not only maintain a professional and inviting appearance but also protect the long-term value of your investment.

Regular inspections, timely repairs, and strategic maintenance are essential to avoiding unexpected failures and costly emergencies. By staying attentive to these warning signs, you position your property for lasting durability, reduced repair costs, and smoother, safer surfaces for everyone who uses them. Investing in proper asphalt care today ensures that your driveways, parking lots, and access roads remain reliable, attractive, and well-maintained for years to come.

Don’t wait for small pavement issues to turn into costly repairs. Contact Cunningham Paving Co today and let our experienced asphalt paving company keep your surfaces safe, smooth, and long-lasting.

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Why Your Municipality Needs Licensed and Bonded Paving Contractors

December 26, 2025

Municipalities face a constant challenge: maintaining streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and public spaces while balancing budgets, safety concerns, and long-term infrastructure goals. Roads are more than simple asphalt or concrete surfaces — they are vital arteries for commerce, emergency services, and everyday life. Choosing the right paving contractors is essential for ensuring these surfaces are durable, safe, and cost-effective. Licensed and bonded professionals provide expertise, accountability, and protection that can prevent costly mistakes and delays. This article explores why municipalities should prioritize licensed and bonded paving contractors for all public paving projects. Ensure Compliance With Local and State Regulations Municipal paving projects must adhere to complex legal frameworks. Cities and towns operate under state laws, local ordinances, and national construction standards, all of which affect how road and parking lot projects are planned and executed. Licensed paving contractors demonstrate that they meet these requirements and possess the knowledge to handle projects legally and responsibly. Without proper licensing, a municipality risks project delays, fines, or even lawsuits if work is found to violate regulations. Licensed contractors are trained in industry best practices, including environmental compliance, ADA accessibility requirements, and safety protocols. For example, sidewalks and crosswalks must meet strict design and slope standards to ensure pedestrian safety. Bonding provides an additional layer of security. A surety bond protects the municipality if the contractor fails to complete the work, doesn’t meet contract specifications, or leaves a project unfinished. This financial safety net ensures that taxpayer dollars are protected, which is particularly important for large-scale projects funded by public budgets. Protect Public Funds Through Financial Accountability Municipal budgets are often tightly constrained. Public projects, such as repaving roads or renovating municipal parking lots, can easily exceed millions of dollars. Mismanagement of these funds can lead to significant financial waste. Hiring licensed and bonded paving contractors helps safeguard public money while ensuring accountability throughout the project lifecycle. Bonded contractors offer a financial guarantee. If a contractor defaults on a project, the bond can cover the costs necessary to finish the work, protecting municipalities from unforeseen expenses. This is particularly critical for projects that involve multiple streets or large municipal facilities, where a small misstep can result in major financial consequences. Licensed contractors also provide accurate cost estimates, helping municipalities plan budgets more effectively. They have experience with project timelines, materials, and labor, which allows them to anticipate challenges that could otherwise inflate costs. Transparent bidding practices and professional oversight minimize the risk of hidden fees or underbidding that can compromise quality. Additionally, municipalities often face public scrutiny over how funds are spent. Hiring licensed and bonded contractors signals a commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency, assuring residents that public money is being used wisely and efficiently. Improve Quality and Longevity of Paving Projects The quality of municipal paving work directly affects safety, durability, and long-term maintenance costs. Roads that are poorly constructed can develop potholes, cracks, and drainage problems within just a few years. These issues not only create hazards for drivers and pedestrians but also require expensive repairs. Licensed paving contractors bring expertise that ensures projects are built to last. They use proper construction techniques, high-quality materials, and proven industry practices. This results in surfaces that withstand traffic loads, harsh weather conditions, and long-term wear. For instance, a properly installed asphalt road with correct grading and compaction can last 20 years or more with minimal maintenance, in our experience. Durable paving reduces the frequency and cost of repairs. This is a critical consideration for municipalities, where road maintenance budgets are limited, and repairs can disrupt traffic and local businesses. According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, the U.S. has over two million miles of paved roads, with around 94% of them being surfaced with asphalt. Municipalities that invest in experienced, licensed contractors maximize the longevity of these surfaces, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent on durable infrastructure rather than repeated fixes. Enhance Safety for Drivers and Pedestrians Road safety is a top priority for municipalities. Poorly constructed or deteriorated roads create hazards such as potholes, uneven surfaces, and standing water. These issues not only damage vehicles but also increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Sidewalks, crosswalks, and parking areas must also meet specific safety standards to prevent trips, falls, and accessibility issues. Licensed and bonded paving contractors bring the knowledge and experience to minimize these risks. They understand proper grading, drainage, and material selection, ensuring surfaces meet safety standards for all users. For example, they know how to design curbs and slopes that prevent flooding and ensure smooth pedestrian access. Using professional contractors also reduces liability for municipalities. A city that hires unlicensed workers may face lawsuits if injuries occur due to substandard workmanship. Licensed contractors follow industry guidelines and building codes, protecting both residents and municipal officials from legal and financial consequences. In addition, attention to safety extends beyond initial construction. Experienced paving contractors often provide recommendations for maintenance schedules, repair techniques, and resurfacing strategies, keeping roads safe and functional for decades. Streamline Project Management and Reduce Delays Paving projects, especially those in urban areas, involve complex logistics, coordination, and scheduling. Unlicensed or inexperienced contractors may struggle to manage crews, equipment, and materials, causing delays and disruptions. Municipalities that rely on unqualified providers risk prolonged road closures, increased costs, and frustrated residents. Licensed and bonded paving companies offer professionalism and project management expertise. They understand how to coordinate with city departments, secure necessary permits, and plan phased construction to minimize disruptions. Insurance coverage is another key advantage. Licensed contractors typically carry liability insurance that protects both workers and the municipality in the event of accidents or property damage. This coverage mitigates risks associated with construction delays or on-site incidents. By hiring qualified professionals, municipalities can ensure that projects stay on schedule and within budget. Efficient project management not only reduces costs but also maintains public confidence in the city’s ability to manage infrastructure effectively. Promote Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility Modern municipalities increasingly prioritize environmentally responsible infrastructure. Proper paving techniques, material selection, and drainage design play a significant role in reducing environmental impact. Licensed paving contractors are trained to use sustainable practices that protect natural resources while still delivering durable surfaces. For example, contractors may recommend asphalt mixes that incorporate recycled materials, reducing the demand for virgin resources. They also implement designs that improve stormwater management, minimizing runoff pollution and protecting local waterways. By hiring licensed contractors who follow eco-friendly practices, municipalities support long-term sustainability goals while maintaining public infrastructure. Furthermore, environmentally conscious paving can lower long-term maintenance costs. Properly designed surfaces reduce erosion, water damage, and surface wear, decreasing the need for frequent repairs and minimizing disruption to the community. Municipalities face complex challenges when managing roads, parking lots, and public spaces. Choosing licensed and bonded paving companies is a smart investment that protects public funds, ensures compliance with regulations, improves quality, enhances safety, and supports environmental responsibility. From legal compliance and financial safeguards to durability, safety, and efficiency, licensed contractors offer benefits that go beyond simple pavement installation. Municipalities that prioritize experienced and bonded professionals gain access to technical expertise, project management skills, and accountability measures that unlicensed providers cannot match. Investing in licensed and bonded paving contractors is not just a prudent financial decision — it is a critical step toward creating safe, durable, and well-maintained public infrastructure. By doing so, municipalities can provide reliable roads and public spaces for residents, enhance community safety, and protect taxpayer dollars for years to come. Contact Cunningham Paving Co today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help your municipality maintain roads and public spaces that serve your community for years to come.