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Tips To Extend the Life of Your Asphalt Pavement

November 28, 2023

Asphalt pavement is a durable and versatile material used in a wide variety of applications, from roadways and parking lots to driveways and walkways. However, like any other material, asphalt pavement is not immune to wear and tear. Over time, it can be damaged by exposure to the elements, heavy traffic, and other factors.

The good news is that you can do many things to extend the life of your asphalt pavement and keep it looking and performing its best for years to come. Discover a few tips.

Keep It Clean

One of the best ways to protect your asphalt pavement is to regularly sweep and clean up debris, such as leaves, dirt, and rocks. Debris can trap moisture and lead to cracks and other damage.

Patch Cracks Immediately

Water is one of the biggest enemies of asphalt. When water seeps into cracks, it can weaken the pavement and cause further cracking and damage. Patching cracks immediately prevents water from infiltrating the pavement and causing further damage.

Asphalt is also susceptible to oxidation, a chemical process that breaks down the asphalt binder. Oxidation can cause the pavement to become brittle and more susceptible to cracking. Patching cracks immediately helps to prevent oxidation from occurring.

Seal It Regularly

Seal coating creates a protective barrier on the pavement's surface, sealing cracks and preventing water, chemicals, and other harmful elements from penetrating. This helps to protect the pavement from weathering, oxidation, and other forms of damage.

Seal coating can also improve the skid resistance of asphalt pavement, making it safer for vehicles and pedestrians. Moreover, seal coating gives asphalt pavement a fresh, new look. It also helps to reduce the visibility of cracks and other surface imperfections.

Control Drainage

Adequate drainage systems, such as properly designed gutters, curbs, and drains, prevent water from eroding the base materials beneath the asphalt. Erosion can weaken the foundation, leading to cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces. Effective drainage minimizes erosion, maintaining the stability and integrity of the pavement.

Control Weeds

Weeds can damage your asphalt pavement in a few ways. First, they can trap moisture and lead to cracks and other damage. Second, their roots can penetrate the asphalt and cause it to break down. Third, weeds can release acids that can damage the asphalt. To control weeds, apply a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring and fall.

Limit Heavy Traffic

Asphalt pavement is designed to withstand substantial loads and traffic, but excessive or prolonged heavy traffic can lead to various deterioration and damage, reducing its longevity. One of the primary benefits of limiting heavy traffic is the reduction of wear and tear.

Heavy traffic, especially from large vehicles like trucks and buses, can cause accelerated wear and tear on the pavement surface. The constant pressure and friction can lead to the development of cracks, potholes, and other forms of structural damage. By limiting heavy traffic, the impact of these damaging forces on the pavement is minimized, thereby reducing the rate of deterioration.

Repair Damage Immediately

If your asphalt pavement is damaged, repair it immediately. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become. There are a variety of asphalt repair methods available, so choose one that is right for your needs.

Hire a Professional Paving Contractor

If you are uncomfortable performing asphalt maintenance and repair yourself, hire a professional paving contractor. Professional paving contractors have the experience and expertise to properly maintain and repair your asphalt pavement, which will help to extend its lifespan.

Extending the life of your asphalt pavement is a wise investment. J & B Asphalt & Paving can repair or install your asphalt pavement. Contact us to get started.

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Asphalt paving is important in constructing and maintaining roads, driveways, and parking lots. It is a low-cost, long-lasting material that withstands heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions. But a few common mistakes can be made when paving with asphalt, leading to a weak surface that only lasts for a short time. Here are some of the most common blunders to avoid when paving with asphalt. Inadequate Base Preparation The asphalt surface will probably crack and get holes over time if it is not leveled or packed down well. The base must be excavated to a specific depth and width before the asphalt can be laid. The base material should mix crushed stone, gravel, and sand to provide a stable and long-lasting foundation for the asphalt. Then, this material should be leveled and pressed down with a roller to make a smooth, stable asphalt surface. Using the Incorrect Asphalt Mix The asphalt mix is made by mixing asphalt cement with a certain amount of aggregate, such as crushed stone, gravel, or sand. The ratio of aggregate to asphalt cement will change based on how the surface will be used and how much traffic it will get. When the wrong mix is used, the surface becomes weaker and more prone to cracking and damage. A mix that is too heavy on aggregate and too light on asphalt cement, for example, will not provide enough stability and will crack under heavy traffic. A mix that is too heavy on the asphalt cement and too light on the aggregate, on the other hand, will be more prone to rutting and deformation. Not Properly Compacting the Asphalt After laying the asphalt, it should be compacted with a roller. Compacting the asphalt removes air pockets and ensures a smooth and stable surface. Asphalt that has not been properly compacted is more prone to cracking and shifting. Compaction should be done in multiple passes, beginning with a light pass to remove any air pockets, followed by heavier passes to ensure a smooth and stable surface. The installer should move the roller slowly to ensure the asphalt is properly packed. Leaving the Asphalt Unsealed Sealing the asphalt will protect it from the elements and extend its life. A seal coat is a thin layer of asphalt that is poured over the asphalt. This liquid asphalt layer will shield the surface from water, oil, and UV rays. If the asphalt is not sealed, it is more likely to crack and be damaged by water, oil, and UV rays. The seal coat should be applied a few months after asphalt installation to let the asphalt fully cure. Not Using a Professional Asphalt Contractor Hiring a contractor who isn't qualified or doesn't have enough experience can lead to bad work, a weak surface that doesn't last long, and even expensive repairs or complete repaving. However, a professional contractor will know how to prepare the foundation, use the right mix, pack down the asphalt, and seal it. Working with a professional contractor ensures all permits and inspections are in place and that the work is done according to local rules and codes. They will also have all the tools and resources they need to do the job well and quickly. Look no further than J & B Asphalt & Paving for professional asphalt paving services. Our skilled and experienced professionals are dedicated to delivering lasting, high-quality results. We take special care to ensure a smooth and long-lasting surface. In addition, our team is up to date on all requirements to ensure your work is done per local codes and regulations. Don't take any chances regarding your asphalt paving requirements. Contact us today to set up a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you with your next project.