Asphalt is an economical paving material that can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions. Its durability minimizes costly repairs and maintenance, contributing to long-term savings for property owners.
Asphalt is made of crushed stone and sand aggregates bonded together with bitumen (a petroleum byproduct). This mixture is heated to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and applied on a prepared base. Contact Asphalt Paving Charleston for professional help.
Asphalt is one of the most popular materials for paving roads, highways, driveways, and parking lots. Its durability and versatility make it an attractive option for people who want a smooth, long-lasting surface that is resistant to environmental elements and weather extremes. However, the material doesn’t last forever and it can deteriorate if it isn’t regularly inspected and maintained. Water damage is a common problem for asphalt and it can cause rutting, cracking, and potholes. This damage makes driving on a paved surface unsafe for motorists and reduces the lifespan of the road or driveway.
The paving process begins with a preparation phase that includes site cleanup and ground compaction. An asphalt mix is then made on-site. This mix is a combination of aggregates (crushed stone, gravel, and sand) and binder materials. Bitumen, a petroleum product, is the most common binder. Other common fillers include slate dust, cement, and limestone dust. The mix is heated to a hot temperature and poured onto the paved surface. It is then compacted with rollers to ensure a solid, dense surface.
After the asphalt is applied, it needs to be protected for the first 72 hours. This is because it will need to cure fully and harden. During this time, it is important to keep people, pets, and cars away from the surface. Likewise, heavy vehicles should not be driven on the new surface for at least this amount of time.
The asphalt’s exposure to the elements is another factor that contributes to its deterioration. The freeze-thaw cycle can weaken the surface and accelerate the formation of cracks and potholes. Chemicals used to de-ice a roadway can also seep into the pavement and corrode the materials within.
Standing water can lead to erosion of the underlying materials, which compromises the structure of the pavement and may cause it to collapse in extreme cases. Pavement failure caused by excessive moisture can also result in sinkholes, which are dangerous for motorists. Proper drainage systems and regular inspections can prevent this type of water damage. In addition, the use of a quality sealant is beneficial for protecting asphalt surfaces from damage.
Weeds
Weeds are a common problem for asphalt parking lots and other areas. They grow quickly and often, and can damage the surrounding pavement if not properly treated. The roots can seep through cracks in the surface and create a bumpy, uneven walking area that is both unsightly and dangerous to people using the lot. They can also cause erosion by taking up nutrients that should be used by the surrounding plants.
When paving is done correctly, the underlying soil can stay intact and the asphalt layer will last longer. However, if the underlying soil is too loose or too compacted, it can cause damage to the asphalt as it moves and settles. These issues are not uncommon, and they can result in potholes or heaving in the asphalt.
Heaving and depressions can be caused by poor drainage, as well as by heavy traffic or improper installation of the asphalt. These issues can cause serious safety hazards, and they should be repaired immediately to avoid permanent damage to the pavement.
During the paving process, asphalt is mixed with aggregate materials, like crushed stone and sand. This creates small gaps in the asphalt, and it is possible for seeds to fall into these crevices. The weeds then grow in the gaps and expose the underlying soil. They can also erode the sand underneath the asphalt, leading to long-term damage and a bumpy surface.
There are a few ways to prevent weeds from growing around your new paver driveway, patio, or other paved area. Vinegar is one of the most effective weed killers, and it can be applied liberally to your pavement. It works best when sprayed on a dry, hot day with low humidity. Vinegar kills weeds by destroying their ability to retain water, which leads to them drying out and dying.
While asphalt is designed to withstand heavy loads, excessive or prolonged heavy traffic can lead to deterioration and reduce its longevity. It can also contribute to heaving, which is when the asphalt rises up or sinks down due to air pockets beneath the surface. This is a common problem with many types of pavements, and it can be difficult to diagnose and repair.
Excessive Traffic
Asphalt is a popular choice for roads and driveways because of its durability and cost-effectiveness. However, excessive traffic can significantly shorten the lifespan of asphalt surfaces. The damage caused by traffic varies in type and extent, but all can be prevented with proper design, installation, and ongoing maintenance.
Proper grading and drainage are essential for the longevity of asphalt surfaces. Grading involves clearing debris and ensuring the surface is sloped in a manner that directs water away from the pavement. Regular inspections and cleaning of catch basins and drains are also necessary to prevent blockages that can lead to water pooling on the pavement.
Heavy vehicles generate heat during driving, which can cause the asphalt surface to expand and contract at different rates as temperature changes. This thermal cycling can lead to cracking and surface deterioration, especially if the asphalt was poorly mixed or compacted during construction.
In addition to affecting the structural integrity of the asphalt, cracking can weaken the surface and allow water to seep into the base layer. These problems are most common in high-traffic areas. Crack filling, crack sealing, and pothole repair are all effective solutions for minor damage.
Excessive traffic can also lead to rutting and shoving, which are low spots in the pavement that can collect water and pose a safety hazard. These issues are often the result of improper construction or excessive load stress, and can be resolved by adding a leveling course and reconstructing the base.
Noise pollution is a significant problem for many homeowners and businesses, but asphalt can reduce the amount of road and driveway noise by as much as seven decibels. This can greatly improve the quality of life and increase productivity, as it will reduce distractions in the workplace or home and make it easier to focus on tasks at hand. This is especially important in urban settings where street and highway noise can be distracting or debilitating. Quiet asphalt can also reduce the need for costly and unsightly sound barriers.
Sealing
Asphalt paving isn’t invincible, and it requires regular maintenance to protect the underlying materials. A crucial aspect of that maintenance is sealcoating, which is applied to the surface of the pavement and creates a hardened protective layer against various elements. It safeguards the asphalt binding agent from water, chemicals, and UV rays that can cause the deterioration of the aggregates. It also offers resistance to oil, preventing it from seeping through the pavement surface and damaging the base layer. And it provides a beautiful black finish that enhances curb appeal and adds to the aesthetic of your property.
The first step in preparing the surface for sealcoating is to clear all debris from the area. Then, the surface should be inspected to make sure it meets quality standards and is free of cracks or potholes. Before the coating is applied, any minor repairs should be made and vehicle fluids like oil should be removed from the surface.
Pavement sealers are available in both coal tar and asphalt emulsion varieties. Both contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that can be carcinogenic when inhaled or ingested. PAHs are produced by a variety of sources, including coke production, coal gasification, oil distillation, shingle manufacturing, and paving and roofing activities. The State of New York specifies a minimum PAH content in asphalt sealants and mandates that any contractor applying them to State-owned surfaces uses only low-PAH products.
Experts apply the sealcoat directly to the asphalt pavement surface with a spray or squeegee. The mixture contains silica sand, rubber or polymers, and proprietary blends that combine to form an effective and long-lasting sealant. It is then spread evenly over the asphalt surface and brushed into the pores, creating a smooth surface that’s resistant to skidding and abrasion. It looks great, resists moisture damage, and keeps your parking lot looking good. A sealcoat isn’t a replacement for asphalt paving, but it does extend the life of your driveway or parking lot and helps prevent expensive repair bills in the future. That’s why it is a vital part of any good maintenance plan for asphalt.