Patching

A patch is an area where the original pavement has been removed and replaced by a filler material. A patch is considered a defect, no matter how well it is performing.

Severity Distress Example Description
Low Close-up photo of a small rectangular patch in good condition.  The patch area is in one piece and has no visible distress. Patch is in good condition and is performing satisfactory.
Medium Overview of a long, narrow, wandering patch at the centerline of a taxiway pavement.              There is noticeable cracking within the patch area. Patch is somewhat deteriorated and affects ride quality to some extent. A moderate amount of distress is present within the patch, or has FOD potential, or both.
High Close-up photo of a patch area with noticeable alligator cracking within the patch.              Some of the visible cracks have grass growing in them. Patch is badly deteriorated and affects ride quality significantly or has high FOD potential. Patch needs replacement soon.