Asphalt is generally a highly durable paving material for parking lots, driveways and roads. Typically, an asphalt paving lasts for more than a decade even without adequate maintenance. But even though asphalt is a long-lasting, flexible and strong material, when it gets constantly exposed to damaging conditions, it can still be ruined. The
instant asphalt is laid on any surface, it’s subject to damaging factors that contribute to its degradation.
On first sight of damage, treatments must be made immediately. To guide you in choosing the right asphalt repair and maintenance tasks, you may want to understand first the causes of asphalt damage, when these take place and how to mitigate their effects on your pavement.
Improper Installation
The most common cause of cracks on asphalt pavements is poor installation.
Do note that the base of the pavement needs to be installed properly to prevent problems to arise even right after installation.
You should also prioritize the most qualified roofing contractor to get the job done seamlessly.
Standing Surface Water
When water infiltrates your paved surface, the sand and gravel base tend to
be washed away. When this happens, the top surface gets distorted and will
later form cracks. And although asphalt dries hard, over time, it loses its
flexibility that even a small crack can damage your paving entirely.
Tree Roots
While trees can be good in beautifying your property, they can damage your
pavement if they are too close to it. What happens is that their roots win over
your asphalt paving.
Fuel and Oil Spots
Fuel and oil spills can slowly break up the aggregates of your asphalt paving.
The surface will eventually deteriorate. Avoid fuel and oil from penetrating
your paving.
Do you have an asphalt paving job coming up? Call us now at (520) 514-2779!
