Starting an asphalt repair business can feel overwhelming — even more so during a recession. The odds are stacked against you, and you're already wondering if it's the wisest thing to do even before you start writing your business plan.

But even with gloomy forecasts and talk of a looming recession in the US, asphalt repair is still a smart and safe choice. Learn why asphalt maintenance is a recession-proof business and how you can protect your company during tough times.

Are We Heading Into a US Recession?

The term "recession" often triggers concern among economists, business owners, and employees alike. Recent developments have led many to question the likelihood and potential severity of a recession.​

According to JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, a recession is now a "likely outcome," citing factors such as trade policies and market volatility as contributing elements.

Regardless of whether the impending recession in the country is mild or severe—or whether it occurs at all—it's prudent for businesses and individuals to prepare for various economic scenarios.

Why Asphalt Repair is a Recession-Proof Business

Despite widespread economic downturns, some industries remain more resilient. During a US recession, government, healthcare, IT, and education sectors tend to remain strong.

But resiliency isn’t limited to those sectors. Another industry that thrives even during a US recession is asphalt repair. But what makes asphalt repair such a great recession-proof opportunity? Let’s take a closer look.

1. Asphalt Maintenance Still Happens During a US Recession

Video: Dealing with recession and why opportunity lies ahead

During an economic crisis like a US recession, people cut or delay major spending. Instead of replacing driveways and parking lots, property owners choose repairs and maintenance.

Pavement still cracks. Potholes still form. Asphalt still degrades.

That's why asphalt repair remains a critical service during a US recession — it's necessary, not optional.

2. Asphalt Repair Offers Recurring Revenue Even During a Recession

Asphalt is everywhere: driveways, roads, parking lots, airports, running tracks, ports, and more. No matter the state of the economy, asphalt needs maintenance. This makes asphalt repair an excellent source of recurring revenue, even during a US recession.

You can earn hundreds of dollars daily through sealcoating, crack filling, line striping, and pothole patching.

Video: How much money can you make sealcoating?

3. Asphalt repair can be done even during the fall and winter

While most asphalt maintenance work slows during colder months, pothole patching can continue year-round.

Winter pothole repair with infrared heater

Even if it’s snowing, you can patch potholes with cold mix asphalt or use an infrared asphalt heater.

That means you can keep generating income even when other outdoor industries slow down during a US recession.

Related: Could Infrared Patching Be The Ticket To Winning the Winter Season?

4. You’re not limited to just the usual asphalt maintenance services

Another advantage of asphalt maintenance? Versatility.

You’re not limited to just sealcoating or crack filling. You can expand your services into:

• Lawn maintenance
• Holiday lighting installation
• Snow plowing
• Junk removal
• Tree trimming
• Graffiti removal

This versatility helps you earn more and stay profitable throughout a recession!

Who Can Start an Asphalt Maintenance Business?

Anyone! Over the years, we’ve seen people from all walks of life pivot into asphalt repair and thrive — even during tough times like a recession.

How Do Asphalt Repair Contractors Weather Economic Crises?

Even though asphalt repair is a resilient business, smart preparation is key. Here’s how to recession-proof your new business:

1. Have a Game Plan

The best way to survive a US recession is to be prepared. Start creating contingency plans now. Think about what you’ll do if your customer numbers drop, prices rise, or supplies become harder to find.

Having Plans A, B, and C ready will help you react quickly and stay calm if things change fast.

2. Stock Up on Supplies

Prices usually rise before and during a recession. Stock up on essential asphalt supplies and equipment now while prices are still reasonable.

Having materials like crack filler, sealcoat, and cold patch ready means you can keep working without worrying about shortages or price spikes.

3. Cut Unnecessary Expenses

Look carefully at what you’re spending money on. Now is the time to trim or cut unnecessary costs like:

• Expensive conferences and trade shows
• Energy-wasting equipment
• Large office or storage spaces you don’t really need
• Ineffective advertising methods

Saving money now gives you more room to handle unexpected challenges later.

4. Prioritize Cash Payments

Keeping a healthy cash flow is critical during a recession. Ask customers to pay with cash or debit instead of credit whenever possible. This is to keep a healthy cash flow for your company and help your business stay afloat even during difficult times.

You can still accept credit from long-time trusted customers!

5. Stay Versatile

Flexibility can make all the difference during tough times. Besides sealcoating and crack filling, learn other skills like pothole patching or line striping.

Adding extra services helps you pick up more jobs, even if some types of work slow down.

6. Lock in Customers Early

Fall and winter are perfect times to plan ahead. Start booking customers for the next season now by sending proposals and reminders.

The earlier you line up work, the more stable your income will be — even if the economy gets rough.

7. Avoid Taking On High-Interest Debt

Taking on big debts during a recession can be risky. Use your savings if possible, and stay away from loans with high interest rates. If you must borrow, look for low-interest options from trusted lenders.

By following these steps, you’ll build a stronger, more recession-proof asphalt business that can survive — and even grow — no matter what the economy does.

Conclusion

Starting a business during a US recession can feel risky — but it’s also an opportunity.

By choosing a recession-proof industry like asphalt repair and following smart preparation strategies, you’ll be setting yourself up for long-term success.

The need for safe, well-maintained pavement never goes away — even in a recession.