One of the most used construction materials on the planet is asphalt. In fact, over 500 million tons of new asphalt are used in the United States every year. This asphalt is used to pave parking lots, driveways and tons of other surfaces. If you are in charge of maintaining an asphalt paved surface, then your main goal should be to keep this material damage-free.
If you want to stay a step ahead of asphalt repair issues, you need to educate yourself about the common causes of asphalt damage. Below is informant about the most common problems that cause asphalt damage and how you can avoid them.
Water Can Cause Severe Asphalt Damage
Over 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered with water. One place that excess amounts of water don’t belong is on a driveway or parking lot covered in asphalt. The water your asphalt paved surface is exposed to can come in many forms. Stagnant water, rain and melted snow can do a number on your parking lot if they are not removed quickly. An asphalt surface that was properly installed should drain water with ease.
However, as an asphalt paved surface ages, problems with water drainage can arise. Checking your parking lot or driveway routinely to ensure water is draining properly is important. If water drainage is becoming a problem, you need to call in professionals.
The longer you allow water to sit on your asphalt paved surface, the more damage you will ultimately have to contend with. Professionals can fix your drainage issues and apply sealcoating substances. These substances not only extend the life of your asphalt paved surface, they can also prevent water damage.
Problems Caused By Sunlight
The typical asphalt paved surface is exposed to direct sunlight for multiple hours every day. Over time, the direct sunlight these surfaces are exposed to will start to burn through and weaken them. The best way to keep your asphalt protected from sun damage is by investing in professional sealcoating. Typically, professionally applied sealcoating will last around four years. Not only will this substance protect your asphalt from the sun, it will also make it look new again.
Fuel and Oil Spills
The vehicles that park on asphalt-covered driveways and parking lots can leak some dangerous substances. The most dangerous of these substances are oil and fuel. If your asphalt is exposed to these substances, damage is soon to follow. When left in place, fuel and oil will make your asphalt soft and pliable.
Instead of dealing with this damage, you need to inspect your asphalt paved surface regularly and clean any oil/fuel spills you find. Luckily, there are many substances designed to remove these liquids from asphalt surfaces. With the help of the right products, you can keep your asphalt surface clean and damage-free.
Maintaining an asphalt paved surface is no easy job. By using the great tips in this article, you can keep your driveway or parking lot looking new for years to come.