People opt for asphalt for commercial properties because it is a durable and cost-effective pavement option. It can sustain damage from weather, wear and tear, and other environmental factors.
As a paving material, asphalt is commonly used for paving roads and driveways. You make it with a mixture of gravel, sand, and asphalt cement, and it’s well known for its durability and strength. However, asphalt is not indestructible.
Standard Striping will share six sure signs of asphalt damage that you should be aware of.
1. Cracks in Asphalt Pavement
One of the prevalent signs of asphalt damage is cracks in asphalt pavement. Cracks can be caused by various things, including weather conditions, traffic, and improper installation. If left unrepaired, cracks will continue to get bigger and can eventually lead to potholes.
2. Potholes in Your Driveway
Potholes are another common asphalt issue. Water seeping into cracks can cause potholes, which expands the gap and causes the pavement to break apart. Heavy trucks and traffic can also lead to forming potholes in your driveway.
3. Raveling in the Pavement
Raveling is when the surface of the pavement begins to crumble. Weathering or poor installation can cause raveling. Once raveling starts, it will continue to get worse and can eventually lead to potholes. Such kind of asphalt damage can cause your driveway to look old and neglected.
4. Alligatoring of Asphalt
Alligatoring is when the asphalt cracks form a pattern resembling an alligator’s skin. That is caused by improper installation or drainage issues. Excessive weight can also cause alligator cracks on the pavement, such as on heavy trucks.
5. Depressions in Your Asphalt
Depressions are indentations in the pavement caused by various things, including traffic, poor installation, and weathering. Depressions can also be caused by tree roots growing underneath the pavement and pushing up on it.
6. Edge Cracks around
Edge cracks are cracks that form along the edges of the pavement. These cracks can make your pavement look unfinished and cause drainage problems. Edge cracks can be caused by poor installation, traffic, and weathering.
How to prevent asphalt from cracking?
You can take some safety measures to prevent asphalt from cracking and damaging:
– Paving during cooler months: cooler temperatures can help prevent asphalt from cracking and help it set before exposure to warmer temperatures.
– Use thicker asphalt: thicker asphalt is less likely to expand and contract with temperature changes.
– Sealcoating regularly: you can help prevent asphalt from cracking and getting damaged by regularly sealcoating your pavement.
– Repairing cracks promptly: if you do see cracks, it’s essential to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
– Hiring a professional: if you’re not sure how to properly care for your asphalt paving, it’s best to hire a professional paving company to help you.
Standard Striping, serving Dunkirk, MD, offers paving services for commercial properties. We’re experts in commercial asphalt paving and can help you keep your pavement looking its best with our asphalt paving and repairs service.
Contact us today to learn more or get a free estimate now!
