Asphalt deterioration occurs for a number of different reasons. Deterioration often describes asphalt that has developed holes, cracks and has begun to crumble. Asphalt will deteriorate over time and therefore requires maintenance and proper care to extend the life of the asphalt. Asphalt deterioration can be caused by issues other than time. Some premature deterioration can be prevented with proper care. Andersen Asphalt & Striping would like to share what can lead to asphalt deterioration, and what you can do to protect and extend the life of your asphalt.
Too Much Moisture in Asphalt
Asphalt is a very porous material that is full of holes and gaps for moisture to seep through. If the asphalt is washed or it rains or snow, water will seep deep into the asphalt. Water, combined with changes in the temperature, can be a problematic situation. Changes in temperature causes the asphalt to expand and contract which leads to fatigue. If water is present and the temperatures drop down low enough to freeze the water, the ice expands putting internal pressure inside the asphalt. Often cracks will form and the asphalt will begin to deteriorate. To prevent excessive moisture exposure, asphalt should be sealcoated every few years to maintain a protective layer on your asphalt.
Intense Surface Pressure of Asphalt
Extreme weight and pressure on the asphalt can also take its toll on the asphalt. One of the leading reasons why major roads need to be repaved is due to the constant traffic, especially from construction, freight or shipping trucks. For parking lots that frequently house heavy vehicles and equipment, it comes as no surprise that the asphalt will have signs of pressure damages. There isn’t too much that can prevent pressure damage and deterioration. However, you can have the asphalt repaired and if necessary, repaved.
Asphalt Exposure from the Sun
Asphalt is exposed to the sun every single day. The asphalt can burn just like your own skin, causing surface damage to the asphalt. During the summer’s intense heat, the ultraviolet radiation frequently leads to cracks and other types of deterioration. As it is a well-known fact that the summer and heat causes major damage to the asphalt, it is important to maintain the asphalt. To prevent UV radiation and heat damage to the asphalt, the asphalt needs to be sealcoated every few years. The local climate will determine how often asphalt needs sealcoating.
Chemical Exposure on Asphalt
Asphalt is frequently exposed to chemicals that are produced by vehicles and other machinery. This too can cause deterioration. Oil and gasoline accumulates and builds up on the asphalt’s surface. Chemical exposure can weaken the binders and other materials used to make asphalt and cause the asphalt to crumble. Again, how to combat chemical exposure is by sealcoating the asphalt. Sealcoating puts a protective layer over the asphalt and helps prevent deterioration of the asphalt surface.
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
Asphalt deterioration is a common problem. It can be prevented with proper maintenance. Cracks can be quickly repaired and the surface sealcoated to extend the life of the asphalt. If asphalt deterioration is left unchecked, you may need to have the asphalt reinstalled. For quality asphalt services, contact Andersen Asphalt & Striping today.
