A well-maintained road isn’t just about appearance—it’s about safety, performance, and cost-efficiency over the long term. In areas like Gawler, SA, where roads face varied weather conditions and continuous wear from vehicles, early detection of road deterioration can prevent more serious issues and costly repairs.
At Gawler Road Tech SA, we understand the importance of keeping your surfaces functional and hazard-free. Here are ten key signs that it might be time to resurface your road.
1. Potholes Are Starting to Multiply
Potholes are one of the most obvious indicators that your road surface is breaking down. When small cracks aren’t repaired, they develop into deeper voids that cause vehicle damage and pose safety risks.
- Growing in size or number
- Appearing more frequently after rain
- Affecting driver comfort and safety
2. Alligator Cracking Is Spreading
Also known as fatigue cracking, alligator cracks resemble a reptile’s scales and often signal structural failure of the pavement. Once this pattern begins to form, resurfacing is usually the most efficient solution.
- Found in high-traffic areas
- Often caused by heavy loads
- Can’t be fixed with basic patching
3. Ruts and Depressions Are Visible
Ruts are grooves in the surface caused by repeated traffic over time. These low spots can collect water and increase the chance of hydroplaning.
- Channel-like indentations along wheel paths
- May cause pooling during rainfall
- Suggest weakening of sub-base or binder layer
4. Fading and Discolouration
While cosmetic in nature, faded asphalt can indicate UV and oxidation damage. When the rich black colour fades to grey, the surface may have lost much of its original flexibility and oil content.
- Dull or chalky appearance
- Surface feels brittle or dry
- Increases chance of cracks forming
5. Loose Gravel or Surface Erosion
If loose stones or aggregate are appearing on the surface, the binding bitumen may be breaking down. This not only affects traction but also signals material deterioration.
- Unsafe for vehicles and pedestrians
- Can clog drainage systems
- Leads to faster deterioration if left untreated
6. Poor Drainage and Water Ponding
Water that doesn’t drain properly can weaken both the surface and the foundation layers. If puddles are forming regularly, it’s likely time to consider resurfacing.
- Water remains after light rain
- Found near dips or intersections
- Signs of erosion around pooling areas
7. Surface Feels Uneven or Bumpy
Driving over an uneven road isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a red flag that deeper structural issues might exist beneath the surface layer.
- Bumps and dips become more noticeable
- Caused by shifting sub-layers
- May affect nearby infrastructure
8. Edge Cracking or Crumbling
When the edges of the road begin to break apart, it may signal that the base isn’t adequately supporting the pavement. Left untreated, these cracks will widen and spread.
- Most common on rural or lightly trafficked roads
- Often caused by poor drainage or lack of support
- May lead to complete edge failure
9. Repairs No Longer Last
If you’ve been patching the same areas repeatedly, resurfacing will offer a longer-term and more economical solution. Temporary fixes don’t address the root cause of the problem.
- Patches sink or crack shortly after application
- Costs for repeated maintenance add up
- Indicates widespread deterioration
10. Age of the Road Surface
Even without major visible damage, older roads naturally degrade over time. If it’s been more than 15–20 years since the last resurfacing, preventative work now can avoid costly reconstruction later.
- Surfaces over 15 years old should be inspected
- Environmental exposure weakens binders
- Older roads are more prone to sudden failures
Conclusion
Timely resurfacing can extend the life of your road, improve safety, and reduce maintenance costs in the long run. If you’re noticing one or more of the signs above, it may be time to act before the damage becomes more extensive.
Gawler Road Tech SA provides expert resurfacing services across Gawler, SA, with a focus on durable results, smooth finishes, and long-term performance. Contact us today to schedule an assessment or to learn more about how we can help you restore the integrity of your road.
Call us on: 08 5122 4216
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