When you notice cracking or a pothole in your driveway or private road, it is completely understandable to try and save money by attempting a DIY patch job. After all, asphalt patch kits are readily available at any home improvement store. However, trying to manage asphalt pavement projects yourself versus hiring a professional paver is the difference between a temporary, often failing, solution and a long-term fix that protects your investment. The key message is clear: do not DIY your major asphalt paving project; always contact a professional with the right equipment and expertise.
Why Do DIY Patch Jobs Fail Where Professional Asphalt Pavement Repairs Last?
The biggest distinction between a quick DIY patch job and professional asphalt pavement repairs comes down to the quality of the materials and the depth of the repair. A professional contractor addresses the underlying cause of the damage, not just the surface problem.
- Temporary Cold Patch vs. Hot Mix Asphalt: Most DIY patch jobs rely on cold patch asphalt, which is designed for temporary, emergency fixes. It does not bond permanently to the surrounding pavement. Professionals use high-quality, hot mix asphalt which is applied at high temperatures, creating a cohesive, long-lasting bond.
- Addressing the Base Layer: Pavement damage, like a pothole, often starts beneath the visible surface in the base layer. A professional will fully excavate the damaged area, assess and repair the base layer, and ensure proper drainage before applying new asphalt. A DIY patch job simply covers the hole, leaving the structural weakness to cause future failure.
- Improper Compaction: Compacting the new asphalt is critical for durability and longevity. Professionals use heavy, vibratory rollers and specialized equipment to achieve maximum material density. A homeowner using a hand tamper or driving over a patch simply cannot replicate the necessary level of compaction, which means the DIY patch will quickly loosen and crumble.
A cheap patch job might seem to fix the hole, but it doesn’t fix the underlying problem. Professional asphalt repairs are comprehensive and designed for permanence, giving you peace of mind.
What Specialized Equipment and Expertise Do Professional Pavers Provide?
Effective, long-lasting asphalt paving requires more than just a shovel and a bag of material. Professionals bring years of experience and specialized, commercial-grade equipment to every job, which you simply cannot replicate with a trip to the local hardware store for a DIY patch job.
- Professional Site Preparation: Before any asphalt pavement repairs begin, a professional crew will properly clean, square off, and prime the area. They know how to identify and correct poor grading that causes standing water and drainage issues, a primary cause of pavement failure in areas like Baton Rouge, LA.
- Commercial-Grade Tools: Professional pavers use tools essential for creating a durable surface, including:
- Industrial Rollers: Heavy vibratory rollers are necessary for the compaction that makes asphalt durable.
- Asphalt Milling Equipment: For larger projects, professional equipment is used to seamlessly remove the damaged layer before a new one is applied.
- Hot-Pour Crack Sealers: Professionals use heated, flexible material to seal cracks, preventing water penetration more effectively than cold sealants.
- Expert Knowledge of Materials: Paving professionals understand the different types of asphalt mixes and which one is best suited for your specific use, climate, and the extent of the pavement repairs. This technical knowledge ensures the material’s properties match the demands of your driveway or private road in Gonzales, Louisiana, and surrounding communities.
Does Choosing Professional Asphalt Paving Save Me Money in the Long Run?
While the initial cost of a DIY patch job is lower than professional asphalt pavement repairs, the long-term expense and hassle make the professional choice the more economically sound decision. A failure to fix the root cause of the damage guarantees that you will have to pay for the repair again, and often for more extensive work the second time around.
- Avoiding Recurring Damage: Since DIY patch jobs fail to address base layer issues and lack proper compaction, they often break down within a single season, especially under the heavy rain and traffic typical of the Louisiana climate. You will spend money repeatedly on temporary fixes.
- Preserving Pavement Value: A poorly executed DIY repair looks sloppy, detracts from your property’s curb appeal, and can even compromise the surrounding, healthy pavement. Professional work is seamless, enhancing the visual appeal and long-term value of your property.
- Efficiency and Time Savings: Attempting a complex asphalt paving task as a DIY project is time-consuming, frustrating, and takes you away from your own work or personal life. A professional crew completes the job correctly and quickly, minimizing disruption and ensuring your driveway is functional again with maximum speed.
Do Not Risk Your Property on a DIY Patch Job
Protecting the surface of your driveway or road is a job for a professional to ensure that your investment lasts. When you are looking for permanent, reliable asphalt pavement repairs in Gonzales, Louisiana, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or the nearby areas, skip the frustration of the DIY patch job and turn to the experts.
At B&H Construction, we know what it’s like to need fast, reliable help for your home. That’s why we bring over 10 years of experience and a crew of licensed pros who care about doing it right the first time. Whether it’s your roof, siding, or paint, we handle it all professionally and with a smile.
Give us a call today at (225) 406-7003 to schedule an assessment for your asphalt paving project.
