Asphalt Trivia in Enterprise, NV & Where the First Paved Road was Built, Types of Pavement Cracks & Other Fun Facts

We all rely on asphalt surfaces to get around every day. Many of us haven’t even stopped to think much about that asphalt until it is ripped up and being replaced; which puts a kink in our schedule. This wonderful product is something we all count on, but probably haven’t thought much about. Andersen Asphalt & Striping is here to talk about some asphalt facts that you probably didn’t know before now.

Where Was the First Paved Road?

Think about how long asphalt roads have been around. Can you pinpoint the time that they started to become something we relied on? Probably not. That’s because the first paved road dates clear back to 1870 in Newark, New Jersey. The road was William Street and was found just outside City Hall. The second paved street was Pennsylvania Ave in Washington D.C., just outside the White House.

Asphalt Occurs Naturally in Lakes

There is one place that asphalt occurs naturally, and you have probably never even heard of it. Asphalt is naturally found in lakes. The lake that has the most asphalt in it naturally is Pitch Lake that can be found on the Caribbean Island of Trinidad. This lake has over 10 million tons of asphalt in it. That number is even more impressive when you think that the lake itself is only 100 acres in size.

Grass & Weeds Growing Through Asphalt?

Many of us battle grass that seems to be able to grow anywhere. Did you know that grass can even grow in asphalt? The reason this is even possible is because asphalt that has been compacted properly has 10% air voids in it. This air allows not only grass, but other weeds to successfully grow in it. This means more work for business owners that have grass poking up through their parking lot.

Asphalt Materials Used in Mummification

Throughout history, asphalt has been found in the Dead Sea. Anciently, when it was found, it was used by Egyptians in their mummification process. It was said to act as a protector for their loved ones when it was used during the wrapping process. It was believed to protect against insects, fungi, moisture and bacteria. Believe it or not, but it also helped halt the decay process.

There are Different Types of Asphalt Pavement Deterioration Cracks

While you may see a crack in asphalt and not think much of it, there are several different types of asphalt cracks.
– Alligator: Small cracks found together than look like alligator skin.
– Transverse: Perpendicular cracks that are usually found in high traffic areas.
– Block: Large cracks that make a rectangular or square pattern.
– Edge: There are cracks found at the edge of asphalt.
– Slippage: Crescent shaped cracks that often turn into potholes.

Asphalt Pavement Installation, Repair, Maintenance Services & More in Reno, Elko, Henderson, North LV, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor, Las Vegas, NV | State of Nevada

If you are in need of asphalt services, there’s no one you can trust more that Andersen Asphalt & Striping to get the job done. Call us today!

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