The weather’s about to get real, meaning it’s time you figure out how to protect asphalt from a storm! Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you.
Asphalt is one of the strongest construction materials available, but intense storms and bad weather can severely test its durability. To make sure your asphalt stays standing through rough weather, it pays to prepare ahead of time.
Here’s our short list of tips on how to protect asphalt before the bad weather gets here:
1. Inspect and Repair What You Can
A thorough assessment of the asphalt in broad daylight is essential to ensure its longevity in harsh weather conditions. You should look for certain things and promptly fix or repair them to ensure your asphalt remains damage-resistant.
Puddles
Puddles indicate improper asphalt installation or other underlying issues, which must be diagnosed and attended to immediately. Unless you take measures to restore the asphalt surface, the problem will aggravate with time.
Dirt and Debris
Regularly checking for dirt or debris is paramount for preventing water from settling on the asphalt, which could otherwise damage it beyond repair. Make sure all dirt particles are removed in time before they erode the surface layer.
Holes and Cracks
Notable temperature changes often lead to holes and cracks in your existing asphalt driveway or pavement. You’ll spot these signs of weakness by simply walking over them gingerly.
If you encounter any such deformations, remember to apply a hot mix sealant depending on the intensity of cracks for a thorough restoration.
Nearby Drains, Gutters, and Sewers
It’s important to keep an eye on nearby water sources such as drains, gutters, and sewers so that accumulating water does not lead to further corrosion of your paving or driveways. It’s prudent that these spots are checked out at least once a week for blockages, lest they spoil your asphalt’s prospects forever!
Unexpected Plant Life
Vigorous vegetation can easily spread its roots across newly laid concrete or paving stones if left unchecked, leading to rainwater damage and frost heave (rising).
In the springtime, look out for roots, weeds, or other signs of plant life and remove them. Make sure to get the entire plant, or it might come back!
Driving and Shovelling Habits
Depending on the size and weight of your vehicle, you can damage the asphalt by turning your tires while stationary or driving into the lane too aggressively. The same goes for shovelling during winter; metal shovels can weaken the foundation beneath the driveway, damaging it unknowingly!
2. Regular Sealcoating: Protecting and Enhancing The Life of Your Asphalt
Using Sealcoating on your asphalt driveway or parking lot has tremendous benefits, including making the surface look great and providing valuable protection from outside forces.
This protective coating is a thin layer of asphalt emulsion. Regular sealant applications can extend the life of your pavement, shielding it against damage caused by water, UV rays, and petroleum products.
What’s The Ideal Schedule for Sealcoating?
Sealcoating is a great way to keep your asphalt surface looking new for years. When done every two to four years, you can be sure of getting the most out of this useful and cost-effective process.
So why wait?
Try it today with Holloway Paving. Not only will it keep your surface in top condition – but you’ll also enjoy peace of mind from our professional seal coating application services. There’s no better time to start protecting and preserving your investment – see what Sealcoating can do for you!
Seeking Professional Help When Needed
Having damaged pavement can be incredibly frustrating, but there is no need to worry. Professional service providers like Holloway Paving are available with the right equipment and expertise to effectively complete an asphalt repair job – whether it is a minor patch or a large-scale project.
As such, it is important to take advantage of these services before the damage becomes too significant to minimize the expense and burden of fixing the pavement. To start your repair project today, call us for a free estimate!
Want to know more about protecting, repairing, and maintaining asphalt? Don’t forget to visit our blog for more tips and tricks.
