Asphalt pavement is known for its strength and flexibility, but over time, exposure to the elements, traffic, and neglect can cause it to deteriorate. One of the earliest and most common signs of asphalt distress is raveling a process that makes your pavement rough, weak, and unsightly. With regular sealcoating can help stop raveling before it starts and protect your investment for years to come. Andersen Asphalt & Striping would like to take a closer look at what asphalt raveling is, why it happens, and how sealcoating helps prevent it.
What is Asphalt Raveling
Raveling is the gradual disintegration of the asphalt surface layer as the aggregate small stones and sand becomes loose and separates from the binder or asphalt cement. This process starts slowly but can lead to serious damage if left untreated. Over time, raveling causes:
• A rough, uneven texture on the pavement surface.
• Loose gravel or sand appearing on top of the asphalt.
• Loss of structural integrity, allowing cracks and potholes to form.
• Reduced skid resistance, which makes the surface unsafe for vehicles and pedestrians.
If not addressed early, raveling can spread across the entire pavement, requiring costly resurfacing or even full replacement.
Common Causes of Asphalt Raveling
Several factors can lead to raveling, including:
Aging and Oxidation: As asphalt ages, exposure to UV rays and oxygen causes the binder to dry out and lose flexibility. The brittle surface can no longer hold the aggregate in place, allowing it to break loose.
Water Damage: When water seeps into the surface, it weakens the bond between the binder and the aggregate. Freeze-thaw cycles make this worse, loosening the materials and accelerating surface wear.
Poor Drainage: Standing water on pavement speeds up raveling by breaking down the asphalt surface and washing away fine materials.
Lack of Maintenance: If asphalt is never sealcoated or cracks are left unfilled, the pavement becomes exposed to constant weathering, leading to faster deterioration.
Traffic Stress: Heavy traffic, especially from large vehicles, can loosen aggregates on aging or weak surfaces, worsening the raveling process.
How Sealcoating Helps Prevent Asphalt Raveling
Sealcoating is one of the most effective and affordable ways to protect asphalt from raveling. It creates a thin, durable layer on the surface that shields the pavement from environmental and mechanical damage.
Seals and Protects the Surface: Sealcoating fills tiny surface voids, preventing water, oil, and chemicals from penetrating and weakening the asphalt binder.
Blocks UV Rays: UV rays are one of the main culprits of binder oxidation. Sealcoating acts as a sunscreen for your asphalt, reducing oxidation and keeping the surface flexible and strong.
Prevents Aggregate Loss: By strengthening the top layer, sealcoating locks the aggregate firmly in place, preventing the loose, gritty texture associated with raveling.
Improves Drainage: A properly applied sealcoat creates a smooth, even surface that promotes water runoff instead of puddling reducing erosion and water damage.
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 raveling is a clear sign your pavement needs attention and fast. Left untreated, it leads to uneven surfaces, cracks, and costly repairs. Sealcoating is an easy, affordable, and effective solution that prevents raveling and extends the life of your asphalt. For asphalt sealcoating services, contact Andersen Asphalt & Striping today.
