Asphalt paving is a popular choice for roadways, driveways, and parking lots due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. However, despite its robust nature, asphalt is not immune to environmental and structural challenges, one of the most noticeable being color fading. Over time, the rich, dark appearance of new asphalt fades to a dull, gray hue. Andersen Asphalt & Striping will go into why asphalt fades and highlight the important role of sealcoating in preserving the integrity and aesthetics of asphalt surfaces.
Why Does Asphalt Fade?
Asphalt consists of a mixture of aggregate bound together by bitumen, a sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid. The fading of asphalt can be attributed to several factors:
• UV Radiation: Ultraviolet rays from the sun are one of the primary causes of asphalt fading. The constant exposure to sunlight causes the bitumen in asphalt to oxidize, leading to a breakdown in its chemical structure. This oxidation not only lightens the color of the asphalt but also reduces its elasticity, making it more brittle and susceptible to cracking.
• Oxygen & Water Exposure: Exposure to oxygen and water also contributes to the degradation of asphalt. The porous nature of asphalt allows air and moisture to penetrate the surface, accelerating the oxidation process and further promoting the loss of the deep black color.
• Traffic Wear: Regular traffic contributes to the physical wear of the surface. The constant friction and pressure from vehicles gradually erode the finer particles on the asphalt surface, exposing the larger, lighter-colored aggregates underneath.
• Weathering: Extreme weather conditions, including high temperatures, rain, snow, and ice, all play a role in fading asphalt. These elements continuously stress the asphalt surface, compounding the effects of UV exposure and mechanical wear.
Why Sealcoating Asphalt is Essential
Given the inevitability of asphalt fading, proactive maintenance measures like sealcoating become essential. Sealcoating offers several benefits that help reduce the effects of the elements responsible for asphalt degradation:
• UV Protection: Sealcoating acts as a sunblock for asphalt surfaces, greatly reducing UV penetration. This protective layer prevents the rapid oxidation of the bitumen, maintaining the asphalt’s color and integrity longer.
• Moisture Barrier: By sealing the porous surface of asphalt, sealcoating prevents water and moisture from penetrating the base material. This barrier not only helps in preserving the color but also protects against freeze-thaw cycles, which can cause cracks and potholes.
• Enhanced Durability: Sealcoating replenishes the essential oils of the asphalt, restoring flexibility and making it more resistant to wear and tear from traffic. This results in an extended lifespan and better overall maintenance of the pavement.
• Cost-Effective Maintenance: Regularly sealcoating an asphalt surface is a cost-effective way to avoid the more expensive repairs associated with over-oxidized or heavily cracked asphalt. It is an investment in the longevity and functionality of the pavement.
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 fading is an inevitable process influenced by environmental factors, traffic, and time. However, with regular applications of sealcoating, the deterioration can be slowed, preserving both the aesthetic and structural qualities of asphalt pavement. Property owners and managers should consider sealcoating an essential part of their pavement maintenance regimen to safeguard their investment against the harsh realities of exposure and wear. For asphalt sealcoating services and more, contact Andersen Asphalt & Striping today.
