Asphalt surfaces, from commercial parking lots to residential driveways, are not only subjected to daily wear and tear from traffic but also to the damaging effects of oil and chemical spills. These substances, often corrosive and abrasive, can severely degrade the quality and lifespan of asphalt pavement. Recognizing the damage these spills can cause and understanding the protective role of sealcoating is essential for any asphalt maintenance plan. Andersen Asphalt & Striping explores how oil and chemical spills damage asphalt and why sealcoating is essential to safeguard these surfaces.
Detrimental Effects of Oil & Chemical Spills
• Surface Deterioration: Oil and chemical spills penetrate the porous surface of asphalt, reaching the binder that holds the asphalt aggregates together. Over time, these substances break down the binder, causing the aggregates to loosen and the surface to deteriorate. This breakdown results in raveling, where pieces of the asphalt start to come loose, leading to potholes and other surface deformities.
• Increased Porosity & Further Damage: As oil and chemicals continue to penetrate and break down the asphalt, they increase its porousness. This heightened porousness allows more water to penetrate the surface, worsening damage especially during freeze-thaw cycles. The expansion and contraction due to freezing and thawing can cause cracks to widen, speeding up the asphalt’s degradation.
• Aesthetic Degradation: Apart from structural damage, oil and chemicals can leave unsightly stains on asphalt surfaces. These stains not only affect the appearance but can also decrease the property value, especially in commercial areas where aesthetics play a significant role in business appeal.
Protective Shield: Sealcoating
Sealcoating offers a proactive solution to protect asphalt surfaces from the harsh effects of oil and chemical spills. Here’s how:
• Barrier Creation: Sealcoating acts as a protective layer that covers the porous surface of the asphalt, effectively sealing its natural pores and preventing oil, chemicals, and water from penetrating. This barrier not only protects the binder from chemical attacks but also prolongs the pavement’s overall lifespan.
• Ease of Maintenance: With sealcoating, cleaning oil and chemical spills becomes easier. The sealant prevents the spills from deeply penetrating the asphalt, allowing for quicker and more effective cleanup. This timely removal mitigates the potential for long-term damage and helps maintain the integrity of the asphalt surface.
• Aesthetic Preservation: Sealcoating restores the original black finish of asphalt, giving it a fresh, new look. Regular sealcoating every few years can help maintain this appearance despite the challenges posed by exposure to harmful substances.
• Cost-Effective Long-Term Maintenance: By applying sealcoating, property owners can avoid the more substantial costs associated with repairing or replacing asphalt damaged by oil and chemical spills. Sealcoating extends the life of asphalt surfaces, making it a cost-effective component of routine pavement maintenance.
Asphalt Parking Lot & Road Pavement Resurfacing, Replacement & More in Reno, Elko, Henderson, North LV, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor, Las Vegas, NV | State of Nevada
The impact of oil and chemical spills on asphalt can be both structurally damaging and cosmetically unappealing, potentially leading to costly repairs and reduced property value. Sealcoating provides an essential layer of protection, shielding asphalt surfaces from these destructive substances. By seeking regular sealcoating into your pavement maintenance schedule, you can enhance the longevity and appearance of your asphalt, ensuring it remains durable and attractive for years to come. For sealcoating and other asphalt services, contact Andersen Asphalt & Striping today.
