Asphalt failure is caused by inadequate thickness of the pavement, lack of maintenance, and weak or unstable sub-grade. Asphalt deteriorates when the cement that bonds the asphalt dissolves from UV rays, harsh chemicals, water and traffic. When the fine aggregates are worn away, there is nothing to bind the larger aggregates together and the surface begins to ravel and crack. If left untreated, cracks and potholes will allow water to penetrate the sub-grade, leading to pavement failure.