Asphalt is one of the most widely used construction materials. It’s found on highways and byways, in driveways and parking lots, in playgrounds and recreational areas – even on airport runways.
However, it is also one of the most vulnerable materials to damage from weather, wear and tear, and poor maintenance. Cracks, potholes, and other surface damage can quickly turn a smooth asphalt surface into an unsightly and dangerous mess.
To keep your asphalt surfaces in good condition and extend their lifespan significantly, here are some asphalt maintenance tips that you should keep in mind.
1. Perform routine inspections
Regularly inspecting your asphalt surfaces is the best way to catch problems early on. It’s best to do this at least once a month, but more often if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions where surfaces are exposed to sunlight, rain, hot and cold temperatures, and snow.
During your inspection, look for any cracks, holes, or other surface damage. If you find any, make a note of their location and size so you can repair them as soon as possible.
2. Clean and remove debris regularly
Debris such as leaves, sticks, and garbage can accumulate on your asphalt surfaces over time. This can not only make your property look unkempt, but it can also speed up the deterioration of your asphalt.
To keep your surfaces clean, sweep them regularly with a broom or leaf blower. You should also remove any gum or other sticky substances as soon as you see them. These can be difficult to remove once they’ve hardened, so it’s best to take care of them right away.
3. Sealcoat your asphalt surfaces
Sealcoating is one of the most important things you can do to prolong the life of your asphalt by as much as 30 years.
The process involves applying a special coating to the surface of your asphalt. This coating helps protect the asphalt from damage caused by weather, sunlight, and other elements like oil and gas spills, which can cause cracking and other forms of deterioration.
Ideally, it should be done every two to three years, or more often if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.
4. Fill in cracks and potholes right away
When you find cracks or potholes in your asphalt surfaces, it’s important to fill them in as soon as they appear. This will help prevent the damage from spreading and becoming worse.
Small cracks can quickly turn into larger ones, so it’s important to nip them in the bud before they get out of hand. Potholes are also a tripping hazard and can cause damage to vehicles, so it’s best to fill them in as soon as they form.
There are various materials you can use to fill in cracks and potholes, such as cold-mix asphalt, asphalt emulsion, or concrete. But for more serious damage such as large cracks or deep potholes, it’s best to hire a professional paving company like Holloway Paving to make the repairs.
5. Resolve drainage problems immediately
If you have any drainage problems on your property, it’s important to fix it immediately to avoid damage to your asphalt surfaces. Standing water can quickly cause surface damage that leads to the formation of cracks and potholes.
It’s best to hire a professional to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. This may involve installing a drainage system like catch basins or French drains, or regrading the land around your property to ensure proper drainage.
6. Maintain asphalt surfaces during winter
During the winter season, it’s important to take extra care of your asphalt surfaces to prevent damage from the cold weather. Snow and ice can quickly cause surface damage that leads to cracks and potholes, so it’s important to clear them away as soon as possible.
To protect your asphalt surfaces during winter, have a professional apply a sealcoat before the season starts to create a barrier against many elements.
Proper Asphalt Maintenance and Repairs in Calgary
Asphalt maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your surfaces and ensuring the safety of your property. With the tips above, you can keep your surfaces in good condition longer and save on costly repairs.
For all your asphalt maintenance and repair needs in Calgary, trust only the experts at Holloway Paving. As the number 1 paving company in Calgary and Southern Alberta, we offer a wide range of services, from asphalt maintenance and repair to concrete construction.
For a free quote, book your consultation with us today.
