While cracks and potholes typically receive the most attention, asphalt edge failure is one of the most common signs of pavement damage. Edge failure typically starts small, but it can quickly spread inward, reducing the lifespan of the entire driveway, parking lot, or road. 

If you’ve noticed some crumbling and deterioration on the edges of your asphalt pavement, keep reading to learn the common causes of edge failure, how to prevent it, and what you can do to address it. 

Common Causes of Asphalt Edge Failure

Asphalt edges are naturally more vulnerable than the rest of the pavement because they lack support on one side. Edge failure occurs when the outer edges of the pavement break, crack, or crumble. It often begins with minor cracks, and as the pavement deteriorates, water infiltration and traffic loads can cause further damage. Left unchecked, edge failure could result in chunks of missing pavement and structural damage. 

Let’s take a closer look at some common causes of asphalt edge failure: 

• Lack of structural support: Edges have less lateral support than the center of the pavement, causing them to flex more under the weight of vehicles, gradually weakening the structure. 
• Poor base preparation: A strong, compacted aggregate base is essential. Improper preparation creates unstable edges. 
• Greater exposure to the elements: Pavement edges are directly exposed to rain, snow, and ice, which can cause erosion around the pavement via freeze-thaw cycles and remove support from beneath the asphalt. 

• Increased water infiltration: Water naturally collects along pavement edges, softening the underlying base materials and allowing the asphalt to crack and crumble. This issue is exacerbated by improper grading or drainage. 
• Heavy vehicles: Commercial trucks, RVs, and construction equipment place higher loads on the pavement, and if they drive too close to the edge, it can cause the asphalt to crumble. 
• Aging asphalt: Asphalt naturally oxidizes over time, becoming less flexible and more likely to crack when stressed. 

Warning Signs of Developing Edge Failure

It’s important to be on the lookout for early warning signs of edge failure. When you catch and address issues early, you can significantly reduce repair costs and prevent major damage. 

Possible warning signs include:

• Small cracks running parallel to pavement edges
• Missing chunks of asphalt
• Loose gravel collecting along the sides
• Soft or sinking shoulders
• Water pooling near pavement edges
• Uneven pavement borders
• Vegetation growing through edge cracks

How to Prevent Asphalt Edge Failure

Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent asphalt edge failure, including:

Build on a Strong Foundation

A strong foundation is essential for a long-lasting asphalt surface. This means the aggregate base needs to be thick enough and properly compacted during installation. 

Maintain Proper Edge Support

Stable gravel or soil shoulders are crucial. If they get washed out, restore them as soon as possible and add additional material if needed. 

Improve Drainage

Make sure water runoff flows away from the pavement. This involves maintaining proper grading, cleaning the drainage systems regularly, and redirecting downspouts away from asphalt surfaces. 

Sealcoat Regularly

Sealcoating protects asphalt from water, UV rays, and oxidation. While it won’t fix structural problems, it can help slow deterioration and reduce the likelihood of edge failure. 

Repair Small Problems Early

If small problems occur, repair them as soon as possible. Fill cracks before water reaches the base, repair damaged edges before the damage can spread, and address drainage issues immediately. Remember that preventative maintenance is much less costly than full reconstruction. 

Repair Options for Existing Edge Damage

If you’ve noticed signs of asphalt edge failure, there are a few different ways you can address it. 

Edge patching can be effective if the damage isn’t widespread. Shoulder reconstruction may be necessary, as well. Rebuilding eroded shoulders can restore edge support and prevent recurring damage. In some cases, partial or full pavement replacement is the best option. You may need to either remove and replace damaged sections or redo the entire asphalt surface. 

Addressing Edge Failure with Precision Asphalt Maintenance

The professionals at Precision Asphalt Maintenance can identify and address the underlying causes of asphalt edge failure rather than just treating the visible symptoms. Our goal is to help extend the life of your pavement while reducing long-term repair costs. 

If the edges of your pavement are crumbling, reach out to Precision Asphalt Maintenance today to learn more about how we can help you restore your asphalt.