Asphalt Birdbath Repair

by Sarah Moore
    Pitting, weathering and cracking is a normal process for asphalt.

    Pitting, weathering and cracking is a normal process for asphalt.

    Although it may sound like a decorative yard ornament, an asphalt birdbath is actually a result of road or driveway degradation. It is a shallow hole or pit in the asphalt and can pose dangers when drivers don’t see it and their vehicles bottom out; it also is a tripping hazard and can hold a large puddle. If you have an asphalt birdbath, get it prepared professionally or by yourself.

    Asphalt Deformations

    Although an asphalt birdbath may be deep, it actually doesn’t need to be to meet the definition of "birdbath." Any area that holds water of a depth more than a nickel's thickness is characterized as a birdbath. Asphalt birdbaths usually aren’t as extreme as potholes, but they hold water, which can be inconvenient when you’re trying to get out of your car near one. If an asphalt birdbath is particularly deep, it can be dangerous for your car to move through. Asphalt deformations such as birdbaths, potholes, cracks and seams usually are caused by poor drainage, setting soil underneath the asphalt, and warming and cooling conditions throughout the year that cause soil to expand and contract.

    Home Repair

    If your asphalt birdbath is fairly shallow, you can repair it yourself by using crushed rock to fill the depression and covering the rock with asphalt emulsion, which usually is sold in 5-gallon buckets at home supply stores. Asphalt emulsion is adhesive; it binds all the crushed rock and seals it onto the surrounding asphalt pavement. The repair then needs to be sealed with an asphalt sealer, also sold in 5-gallon buckets. If an asphalt birdbath depression is very small, then a simple asphalt sealant can be applied to it with a trowel.

    Professional Repair

    If your asphalt birdbath is too wide or deep to deal with yourself, too many birdbaths are present or the asphalt has extensive seams, cracks, swells or potholes, then hiring a professional for the repair may be necessary. Professionals deal with a wide variety of asphalt repairs and have the heavy equipment necessary to apply asphalt, press it with a lot of weight and seal it with high temperatures that make the repairs last longer than they would otherwise. Some use specialized technology such as infrared radiation.

    Patching Precautions

    Do not attempt asphalt repairs during December, January or February, when fluctuating temperatures make it harder for asphalt pavement to set and possible frosts or light freezes could cause groundwater to swell and crack new repairs. Before repairing asphalt, ensure it is clean and dry. Whether attempting a repair yourself or hiring a professional, cordon off the area so that pets and people stay clear of the site for the duration of the asphalt patching and drying process.

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