The work area is cleaned of loose asphalt and debris. The infrared heater is position over the damaged asphalt where it is heated for approximately 7-10 minutes. Remember, the asphalt is heated, not burned. When the asphalt is softened the heater is removed.

After the asphalt is softened, a steel rake is used to define the outer edges of the patch. It is important to leave at least 6" of the heated surface undisturbed around the outside of the patch. Then the rake is use to scarify the asphalt inside of the square area. This recycles the old asphalt.

With the old asphalt recycled, a rejuvenator is added to replace oils that have oxidized out with age. New virgin asphalt is added to the repair to bring the repair up to grade. The patch is leveled with an asphalt lute and the area around the repair is swept clean.

With the patch level, the crewmen finish their work by rolling the asphalt. The edges are rolled first to insure a visually appealing repair. Compaction of the asphalt is extremely important for a successful patch. 

In less then 20 minutes the repair is finished. With infrared thermal bond patching,