In Edmonton, harsh winters and heavy rains put serious pressure on stormwater infrastructure. One of the most overlooked yet essential components of your pavement’s longevity is the catch basin repair, the unsung hero of drainage.
When catch basins fail, the consequences go far beyond pooling water. Cracked asphalt, sunken areas, and costly liability risks can follow. That’s why catch basin repair isn’t just maintenance, it’s protection.
What Is a Catch Basin?
A catch basin, often called a storm drain inlet, is designed to collect surface water runoff and funnel it into the storm sewer system. You’ll find them near parking lot drains, roadway corners, loading docks, and sloped pavement areas. They prevent standing water, ice buildup, and asphalt saturation, but only when they’re functioning properly.
Regular maintenance and cleaning are crucial to prevent blockages, ensuring smooth drainage and preventing costly damage to pavements. Without proper care, catch basins can become overwhelmed, leading to flooding and deterioration of infrastructure.
Common Signs of Catch Basin Failure
Ignoring a failing catch basin can lead to serious safety issues and expensive repairs. Watch for these red flags:
- Pooling water near drains or low areas
- Cracks or sinkholes forming around the basin frame
- Depressed pavement near the catch basin
- Grates shifting or sitting unevenly
These symptoms indicate that the surrounding asphalt and concrete have become unstable, often due to water undermining the base layers or frost heave. Left unaddressed, the problem can spread fast.
Why Timely Catch Basin Repair Is Crucial
Here’s what happens if catch basin damage is ignored:
1. Structural Asphalt Damage
When the surrounding asphalt collapses or sinks, it creates potholes, trip hazards, and unstable surfaces that are dangerous for vehicles and pedestrians.
2. Water Infiltration
Cracks allow water to penetrate sublayers of the pavement. During freeze-thaw cycles, this leads to heaving, fracturing, and severe degradation of your surface.
3. Costly Liability Risks
Commercial properties are held accountable for injuries or damage caused by poorly maintained surfaces. A sunken catch basin near a business entrance can lead to insurance claims or lawsuits.
4. Higher Long-Term Costs
A quick repair today can prevent a full basin rebuild or extensive resurfacing project later. Preventive maintenance always costs less than major restoration.
Our Catch Basin Repair Approach
At Smartfix Asphalt, we take catch basin repair seriously because it’s not just about the drain; it’s about the entire surrounding structure.
We use a combination of:
- Excavation and structural rebuilds to reset or replace collapsed frames
- Infrared asphalt repair for seamless, durable pavement restoration
- Compaction and grading correction to ensure proper water flow
This process not only restores safety but ensures your surface is water-tight, level, and long-lasting.
🛠️ Learn more about our catch basin services
Who Needs Catch Basin Repair?
Catch basin failures can occur on a range of property types:
- Commercial parking lots
- Retail centres and malls
- Warehouses and loading areas
- Municipal roads and walkways
If your site sees high vehicle traffic or drainage challenges, catch basin maintenance should be a regular part of your property care plan.
Conclusion: Protect Your Pavement with Smartfix
Catch basin repair isn’t just about fixing a hole — it’s about preserving the value and safety of your entire asphalt surface. When basins fail, it’s often too late to avoid major damage.
Don’t let drainage issues turn into liabilities.
📞 Contact Smartfix Asphalt today for a free inspection and see how our expert team can restore and protect your pavement with precision and care.