One of the most affordable and convenient methods for small scale asphalt repair projects is to use a cold patch mix. Many homeowners will tell you that this approach saves money and can reduce the amount of labor required for the job, making it a great solution for small holes in parking lots, sidewalks, streets, and driveways. However, the cold asphalt patching process can be sped up with the correct application techniques, which also saves homeowners time! Clients, customers, guests and occupants can use the paving in the same day!

Read on to learn some great tips on how you can shorten the amount of time it takes for your cold patch asphalt mix to harden and dramatically reduce turnaround time, from start to finish of the project.

Easy to use

The main reason this product is the preferred choice for repairing small holes in asphalt pavements is the ease of installation. There is no long and extended process of preparation or mixing of materials. Instead, the air does most of the work. The mix is ​​simply poured directly into the hole, compacted with simple hand tools (metal tamper or piece of wood) and allowed to air dry. The mixture becomes a permanent surface patch after prolonged contact with air.

The drying process, also known as healing, it is very important to establish a solid and stable surface that will last a long time. If you want a permanent repair for your asphalt, you need to make sure that the entire process is done correctly. If you want to speed up the curing stage of your pavement repair project, you can try some recommended tips.

use gravel

You can use gravel to create a denser space inside the hole, which can help establish lasting strength. Simply fill the hole with gravel, a little at a time, while using your compaction tools to compress the gravel with each layer. Do not fill the hole to the top; be sure to leave 2 inches of space below the surface line for your cold patch mix.

pour your mix

As you mix, go over the surface line by 1/2 inch. This means that your mix should extend above the top of the hole by ½ inch. Then use your compaction tools to compress your material until it is properly flattened. You may need to repeat this step two or three times to get a proper fill.

accelerated drying

Asphalt cold patch mix cures on contact with air. You can speed up the drying process by using hair dryers or commercial paint dryers. If you are going to use a hair dryer, you will need to manually operate it in a steady sweeping motion to ensure an even cure. The material is almost dry when you cannot easily press the surface with your hand.

Large scale pavement repair

For large-scale paving repair jobs, you need a professional paving company. They have the training, equipment, and resources to deliver reliable work in a convenient time frame. Be sure to choose a company that is licensed, bonded, and insured, and has decades of experience in the road construction industry.