Asphalt permeability - Water draining through new asphalt

[gratefulgary]

Late this past fall I had some asphalt applied behind a building we own in Westchester Co., NY as part of a water diversion effort. The temperature was 40'ish degrees and there was some question as to wether it was warm enough to proceed with the project. The plant was on the verge of closing for the season. I relied on the discretion of the contractor as to wether to proceed. He has been in the business 40+ years and has a good reputation in the area.

Because of the location/configuration the asphalt was compacted with a push roller. I have noticed that water coming off the roof of the building at a spot where there is no gutter goes directly into the asphalt and there is no run-off. This does not appear to be the case everywhere in that a sluice that was part of the project carries water to a storm drain. Although I can't see how much of that water, which is carried at a much greater volume, may be going through the asphalt.

Should I be concerned about the apparent high level of permeability? And if so, when I approach the contractor to discuss mitigating the problem, what solution should I consider adequate? Would an offer to seal the surface be appropriate, and if so, what should I look for in an acceptable sealer from him. Some builders in the area have suggested that I demand he tear it up and replace it this spring. The contractor went away for the winter and so I couldn't speak to him directly shortly after the job was completed, although I did speak with his son about it. So it's not a situation where I let this go for too long prior to bringing it to someone's attention.

I'll be speaking with the contractor soon and need to be able to have an informed conversation with him. Any help that the forum participants can offer would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks much.

[Tony McC]

Sorry, but I can't comment on US practices. As stated at the top of the page, this site deals witrh British and Irish paving and surfacing. We have some US contractors that like to hang out with us, but, as far as I know, they specialise in block paving rather than "asphalt" surfacing.

The methods and materials we use in Britain and Ireland are totally different to those used in you country: that's why it's difficult and unwise for me to comment. Maybe Amy the Tarmac Lady could suggest a US site that bcould help?

[TarmacLady]

Gary, you'll find that the US version is but a cheap imitation of Tony's site -- but you might find an answer at Pavement Pro.

Our tarmac sealers are not meant as a waterproofer, but as a renewer for the oils that the sun and wear & tear take out of the tarmac over use and time...so I can't suggest resealing as an alternative.

Good luck!

[gratefulgary]

Thanks you guys for your help. You're correct in that I hadn't noticed this site was from the UK, although my Great Grandfather and Grandmother were Hugh and Mollie Bradshaw, from Ireland.

Thanks also for the link to the PavementPro site. I had already found it and posted there, and have received some helpful responses.

Thanks again,

Gary