Carington Middle: Parking lot repair
Sinkhole Repair, Drainage Improvements, and Infrared Asphalt Patching
We recently completed a parking lot repair project at Carrington Middle School in North Durham.
addressing a sinkhole near a pedestrian walkway and a large pothole caused by ongoing drainage issues.
For school facilities teams, municipal planners, and maintenance managers, projects like this highlight how quickly asphalt problems can turn into safety concerns—especially in high-traffic environments like middle school campuses.
The Problem: Sinkhole Near a School Walkway
When we arrived on site, the most urgent issue was a sinkhole forming next to a drain catch basin, located along a walkway between classroom buildings. This wasn’t a minor surface defect—the asphalt had failed enough to create a clear trip and fall hazard for students and staff.
Several teachers mentioned that the area had been temporarily covered with a broken pallet and shared how relieved they were to see repairs underway. With constant foot traffic in this location, it was critical to address the issue quickly and correctly.
The underlying cause was poor drainage around the catch basin. Water had been collecting and slowly eroding the soil beneath the asphalt, creating a void that caused the pavement to crack and collapse. Left untreated, sinkholes like this typically continue to expand.
Our Approach to Sinkhole Repair
We began by removing the failed asphalt around the catch basin to fully expose the affected area. Once the surface was opened, it became clear that the subgrade was still too wet to proceed.
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to long-lasting asphalt repair, so we allowed the exposed soil to dry completely before moving forward. Rushing this step can lead to future settlement and recurring failures.
Once conditions were right, we:
- Removed all loose debris from the excavation
- Installed a crush-and-run aggregate base to improve drainage and stability
- Compacted the base thoroughly to create a solid foundation
To ensure long-term performance, we allowed the rock base to settle for several weeks before completing the repair.
When we returned, we placed 3.5 inches of surface mix hot asphalt, carefully luted and compacted to restore a smooth, safe walking surface. The repaired area was then reopened for normal use.
Additional Repairs: Pothole and Drainage Improvements
In addition to the sinkhole, the property had a large pothole measuring approximately 14 feet by 10 feet, located just beyond a major speed bump. This area consistently collected water, causing the asphalt to deteriorate more rapidly over time.
Rather than simply patching the pothole, we focused on correcting the underlying grade. Adjusting the slope allowed water to drain properly, reducing the risk of future pavement failure.
To fix this problem, our goal wasn’t just to repair the pothole but to also change the existing grade of the area.
Infrared Asphalt Repair for Durable Results
For the pothole repair, we used infrared asphalt patching, an efficient and environmentally responsible method that allows us to recycle existing pavement.
Infrared repair works by:
- Heating the existing asphalt to a workable temperature
- Blending in new asphalt material as needed
- Compacting the repair to create a seamless bond
This process eliminates visible seams and creates a durable repair that blends naturally with the surrounding pavement. It’s ideal for potholes, depressions, and drainage-related asphalt failures in school parking lots and drive lanes.
Asphalt Services Used on This Project
This project included several of the asphalt services we provide throughout Durham and the surrounding area:
- Asphalt repair
- Sinkhole repair
- Infrared asphalt patching
- Pothole repair
- Drainage-related pavement corrections
We specialize in small- to mid-scale asphalt maintenance for schools, municipalities, HOAs, and commercial properties.
Why Schools and Municipalities Choose Our Team
We don’t take shortcuts. From letting subgrade materials dry to allowing aggregate bases to settle before paving, every step is focused on long-term performance, not temporary fixes.
We also prioritize environmentally friendly methods, including infrared asphalt repair, which reduces waste and minimizes disruption on active school campuses.
As a women-owned asphalt contractor, we place a strong emphasis on clear communication, reliability, and follow-through. Our goal isn’t just to complete the work—it’s to make the process smooth and predictable for our clients.
Creating Safer School Campuses in North Durham
By the time repairs were complete at Carrington Middle School, the property was safer and more functional. The sinkhole was eliminated, drainage issues were corrected, and the large pothole near the speed bump was repaired and properly graded to prevent future water pooling.
These improvements help schools stay focused on what matters most—providing a safe environment for students and staff.
Request an Asphalt Repair Quote in Durham, NC
If you’re managing a school, municipal property, or public facility and dealing with sinkholes, potholes, or drainage-related asphalt issues, addressing them early can prevent more costly repairs later.
We provide asphalt repair services in Durham, Raleigh, and surrounding communities, and we’re always happy to walk through practical solutions for your property.
Reach out to request a quote or start a conversation about your next project.
