How to Maintain Your Asphalt

Asphalt looks great. It is preferred by many commercial and residential property owners. There are many reasons why asphalt is a great material. Asphalt is a relatively affordable material. It is durable, and it can withstand regular wear and tear. It is also good for the environment. Asphalt is recycled more often than any other paving material. Nevertheless, asphalt needs regular maintenance.

  • Motor oil can damage asphalt.
  • Heavy vehicles can damage asphalt.
  • Direct sunlight is very drying. When the asphalt is too dry, you will see piles of sand accumulate on the asphalt. The fragile surface will deteriorate rapidly.
  • Asphalt becomes a grayish color a few years after the installation. The color change is caused by oxidation.

Maintaining the Asphalt

Asphalt will usually be usable for more than a decade. The weather, installation and the materials will determine the longevity of the asphalt. You can increase the longevity by following a regular maintenance plan. Asphalt maintenance can be divided into large and small projects. Some of these maintenance projects can be handled by the property owner. A professional contractor should handle the large asphalt maintenance projects. A new layer of asphalt can be added to the current layer. The overall condition of the asphalt will determine if this is a good option for your property. Besides the aesthetics, damaged asphalt can be a safety hazard.

Keep the Asphalt Clean

Clean the asphalt on a regular basis. Remove the dirt and debris with a broom or a pressure washer. Stains need to be cleaned with a grease remover. Make sure the asphalt is spotless and dry. Certain types of contaminants can damage asphalt. Chemical stains need to be removed immediately. If the dirt is not removed immediately, weeds can grow in the asphalt.

Keep Water Away From the Asphalt

The seasonal changes in weather can significantly affect the condition of the asphalt. Asphalt is prone to damage in states that have cold winters. Puddles of standing water can lead to large cracks or different issues. The cracks will allow water to seep into the base of the asphalt. When the water soaks the crack, the base material moves and settles. The crack expands when the water freezes. Wet asphalt will deteriorate at a faster rate. Any time you notice a crack in the asphalt, you should fix it immediately. Small indentations need to be filled with a crack filler right away. They should be repaired before they become bigger cracks. The bigger cracks will become potholes if they are not repaired in a timely manner.

Seal the Asphalt and Block Access

When the cracks are repaired, sealing is the final step to make sure the repaired asphalt is secure. You should seal asphalt every few years. Sealcoating the asphalt at regular intervals will forestall further oxidation and decay. When the asphalt is repaired, you need to protect your work. Blocking access is the best way to stop traffic from wrecking your work when you are away. Use caution tape when the asphalt is curing and drying.

Asphalt maintenance can be tricky. Asphalt is made from many materials, and the installation is complicated. Nonetheless, ongoing maintenance is an important part of protecting your investment. Hire a contractor who is an expert in asphalt maintenance. Local contractors know how to handle the asphalt in your city. A professional contractor can answer your questions and recommend maintenance services. Setting up a continuous maintenance plan is quick, simple and affordable. The cash that you spend now can help you avoid costly fixes later.

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Christophe Rude
Christophe Rude
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