Asphalt Patching in the HRM
General Patching
Pothole patching is a semi-permanent repair used to prolong the life of a street. This method cannot be used for larger surface areas or more complex repairs.
Various types of asphalt patching require the methods, skills and equipment used to vary as well. Municipal Operations uses both internal HRM crews and external contractors to ensure value is obtained without sacrificing the quality of repairs.
Summer Patching
Warm temperatures are best suited for effective hot asphalt repairs. Municipal Operations undertakes a significant asphalt program from May to October using approximately 2700 tons of asphalt to make a variety of repairs to HRM streets, walkways, sidewalks and curbs.
Fall Patching
With the exception of priority pothole repairs, the asphalt patching program concludes on October 31st. This date selection is based on historical temperatures and is monitored depending on current weather.
Air temperature is only one factor to consider as the effectiveness of the repair can be undermined by moisture, wind speed (wind chill), pavement temperature and the temperature of the hot asphalt itself.
Winter Patching
Emergency winter asphalt patching is carried out on an “as-required” basis. Crews utilize the most effective and economical methods and materials available (i.e., new or recycled hot mix asphalt, or cold mix asphalt) during the winter months.
For more information visit: Asphalt Recycling
Hot Asphalt Patching
Hot asphalt patching requires specific skills to properly prepare the repair site as well as spread, rake and compress the material. A proper asphalt repair needs to have the correct thickness compaction to support the load of specific vehicle types. It is extremely hot when it is first applied and remains flexible so it can be worked into the repair area. HRM crews usually transport asphalt in a “hot box”, which is insulated and heated to retain the material temperature as long as possible. This allows the asphalt to remain workable for a longer period of time and results in limited loss of new asphalt to the recycling program.
Cold Asphalt Patching
Cold patch, also known as cold mix or cold asphalt, is an alternative product for maintaining road repairs quickly. It can be applied directly from the container, but must be heated by a portable torch during the coldest temperatures to keep it pliable. Cold patch can be applied under all weather conditions. Cold patch is not an effective long term repair as the material can be easily removed by road bed movement, vehicle traffic and snow removal operations.
