Petro mat is a non woven, polypropylene fabric applied to an existing asphalt surface used with the intention to create a watertight barrier between an existing surface and the new hot mix asphalt surface that is applied on top of the Petro mat. First, the surface of existing asphalt is thoroughly cleaned and then prepped with a layer of tack coat. Next, the petro mat is installed on top of the tac coat and rolled to eliminate any air pockets. Finally, a new lift of hot mix asphalt is applied, rolled and compacted. The petro mat acts as a buffer between the failed asphalt and the new asphalt, eliminating most chance for existing failures underneath the new petro mat from reflecting on the new asphalt surface.