Cracks, potholes, and soft spots in asphalt surfaces don’t just look bad—they create problems. Uneven pavement increases risk for vehicles and pedestrians, allows water to enter the surface, and often leads to more damage if left untreated.
At TruSeal Asphalt & Concrete, we’ve seen how fast surface issues can escalate. That’s why we offer infrared asphalt repair as part of our regular services for parking lots, drive lanes, and commercial properties throughout Maryland.
This method doesn’t require cutting out damaged pavement or hauling debris away. Instead, it blends the existing material with new asphalt using heat—making it one of the most efficient, cost-effective repair methods available.
Here’s what you need to know about how it works, when to use it, and what kind of results you can expect.
What Is Infrared Asphalt Repair?
Infrared asphalt repair is a surface-level method that uses heat to rework damaged asphalt. A heater is placed over the problem area and warms the material until it softens. Then new asphalt is added and mixed into the old surface. Everything is compacted and smoothed out, leaving a patch that bonds directly to the surrounding pavement.
There are no saw cuts, seams, or cold joints. The repair blends in and holds up.
This type of repair is best for areas where the pavement has settled, cracked, or broken up—but where the base underneath is still solid. We often use it for potholes, trip hazards, surface raveling, and failed seams.
How Infrared Asphalt Repair Works
The process is straightforward, but each step plays a critical role:
1. Heating the Area
We use a specialized infrared unit to heat the damaged section of asphalt. Depending on conditions, this usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. The heat penetrates the surface and softens the existing material, making it workable.
2. Scarifying and Rejuvenating
Once the asphalt is pliable, we rake and scarify the top layer. This helps remove any surface contamination and improves the bond with added material. A rejuvenator may also be applied to restore some of the oils lost through aging.
3. Adding New Material
We add new hot mix asphalt and blend it with the existing surface. This combination helps restore the structure and volume of the area being repaired. It also improves the strength of the patch.
4. Compacting the Surface
The final step is compaction. Using a vibratory plate or roller, we compact the asphalt so the patch is flush with the surrounding surface. The finished repair is smooth, bonded, and ready for traffic in about 30 minutes.
Why TruSeal Recommends Infrared Repairs
We offer different repair methods depending on the condition of the asphalt, but infrared is a go-to option when the surface is damaged and the base is still in decent shape.
Here’s why:
Faster turnaround
Most infrared jobs take less than an hour to complete. That means less downtime for your lot or drive lanes—and fewer interruptions for your customers or tenants.
Lower cost
There’s less material used, no debris to haul away, and no saw-cutting. For small to mid-size surface issues, it’s one of the most cost-effective repair methods we offer.
Seamless finish
Infrared bonds the repair directly to the existing pavement. There are no joints or visible cut lines, which reduces the chance of water getting in and causing future problems.
Small footprint
Because the equipment is compact and the process is localized, it’s easier to work around parked cars, pedestrian areas, or active buildings.
Less waste
By reusing the existing asphalt, this method reduces material waste and cuts down on trips to and from asphalt plants.
Where Infrared Asphalt Repair Works Best
We use this method in a variety of situations, including:
- Potholes in asphalt that hasn’t completely broken down
- Cracking or raveling near drains, curb lines, or utility covers
- Low spots that collect water or create trip hazards
- Seam failures between old and new paving sections
- Post-construction patching around trench work or utility repairs
If the asphalt is crumbling or if the base has failed, we may recommend full-depth repair instead. But for surface-level fixes, infrared is often the right call.
What You Can Expect from an Infrared Repair
When you hire TruSeal for infrared asphalt repair, we’ll schedule a site visit to look at the area in question. We’ll assess the condition of the pavement, the base underneath, and whether infrared is the right fit.
If it is, we’ll schedule the work, walk you through what to expect, and keep the job site clean while we work. Most jobs take under an hour and are ready for traffic shortly after compaction.
We don’t leave until the patch is tight, flush, and built to hold up.
Book a Repair with TruSeal
Infrared asphalt repair is one of the most efficient ways to deal with surface damage in asphalt. Whether you’re managing a retail center, an HOA, a church, or a school, the less time you spend closing off parts of your lot, the better.
If you’ve got a damaged area that needs attention, TruSeal can help. We’ll take a look, let you know if infrared is the right fix, and schedule a time that works for you.
Ready to get it taken care of? Contact TruSeal Asphalt & Concrete for a quote today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Asphalt Repair
What is infrared asphalt repair?
Infrared asphalt repair is a method that uses heat to soften existing asphalt. Once the surface is pliable, it’s mixed with new material and compacted to create a smooth, bonded patch.
How long does an infrared asphalt repair take?
Most repairs take 30 to 60 minutes from start to finish, depending on the size of the area and weather conditions.
Can infrared asphalt repair fix potholes?
Yes. It’s commonly used for potholes where the base is still intact. The process removes moisture, fills the hole, and bonds the patch to the surrounding pavement.
Is infrared asphalt repair permanent?
It’s a long-term solution for surface-level damage. If the underlying base is solid and the repair is done properly, it can last several years.
Can infrared asphalt repair be done in cold weather?
Yes. Infrared heaters can warm asphalt to the proper temperature even in cooler months. It’s often used when hot mix from plants isn’t available.
How soon can the area be used after an infrared asphalt repair?
Most areas can handle foot or vehicle traffic within 30 to 60 minutes after compaction.
How does infrared asphalt repair compare to traditional cut-and-patch?
Infrared repair is faster, uses fewer materials, and leaves no seams. Cut-and-patch is more invasive and may be better for deeper structural damage.
Ian Chaput is the President and Founder of TruSeal Asphalt & Concrete, with a rich background in business and marketing from the University of Delaware and extensive experience in the asphalt trade. Under his leadership, TruSeal has become a testament to his commitment to exceptional customer service and quality workmanship. Ian oversees the company’s strategic planning, customer relations, and social media presence, driving forward the values that have made TruSeal a trusted name in the industry.
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