Asphalt parking lots and driveways are common in many residential areas worldwide. Unfortunately, they can be vulnerable to water damage if not properly maintained. Water is one of the greatest threats to asphalt pavement, as it seeps into cracks and causes deterioration. If left unchecked for too long, this leads to crumbling erosion and poor overall condition of your driveway or parking lot. Luckily there are plenty of preventative measures you can take to prevent asphalt water damage down the line! This blog post will discuss why water is so destructive on paved surfaces and how to prevent asphalt water damage with regular upkeep. We hope that by taking our advice, you can ensure that your asphalt stays both safe and beautiful for years to come!
How Water Affects Asphalt
Asphalt is a material commonly used in roadway and parking lot construction, making it an essential element of our infrastructure. But did you know that water can significantly affect the longevity of asphalt installations? Over time, water can seep into the asphalt and cause damage to the underlying support layers. This can lead to cracks and potholes due to the erosion of materials, which reduces the life expectancy of any given asphalt installation. To prevent asphalt water damage, proper drainage is important when setting up an asphalt foundation. Installers must consider both the current weather conditions and potential long-term rainfall patterns when laying down asphalt. By taking these preventative measures, you can ensure that your asphalted surfaces remain in peak condition for years to come.
Types of Asphalt Water Damage
Alligatoring
Alligatoring is a type of asphalt water damage that occurs when the surface of the asphalt dries and shrinks, causing it to crack and form a pattern that resembles an alligator’s skin. Alligatoring can be caused by various factors, including improper installation, inadequate drainage, and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Bleeding
Bleeding is a type of asphalt water damage that occurs when water seeps through cracks in the asphalt and causes the surface to become soft and sticky. Various factors, including improper installation, inadequate drainage, and exposure to extreme weather conditions, can cause bleeding.
Cracking
Cracking is a type of asphalt water damage that occurs when the surface of the asphalt dries and shrinks, causing it to crack. Various factors, including improper installation, inadequate drainage, and exposure to extreme weather conditions, can cause cracking.
Edge Raveling
Edge raveling is a type of asphalt water damage that occurs when the edges of the asphalt begin to unravel due to exposure to water. Edge raveling can be caused by various factors, including improper installation, inadequate drainage, and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Fatigue Cracking
Fatigue cracking is a type of asphalt water damage that occurs when the surface of the asphalt is repeatedly subjected to stress, causing it to crack. Fatigue cracking can be caused by various factors, including improper installation, inadequate drainage, and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Joint Reflection Cracking
Joint reflection cracking is a type of asphalt water damage that occurs when cracks form in the joints between sections of asphalt pavement. Joint reflection cracking can be caused by various factors, including improper installation, inadequate drainage, and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Potholes
Potholes are a type of asphalt water damage that occurs when water seeps into cracks in the pavement and causes the surface to collapse. Various factors, including improper installation, inadequate drainage, and exposure to extreme weather conditions, can cause potholes.
Raveling
Raveling is a type of asphalt water damage that occurs when the surface of the asphalt begins to unravel due to exposure to water. Various factors, including improper installation, inadequate drainage, and exposure to extreme weather conditions, can cause raveling.
How to Prevent Asphalt Water Damage
Inspect Your Asphalt Pavement Regularly
Inspecting it regularly is one of the best ways to prevent asphalt water damage. Look for cracks, potholes, or other signs of damage. If you notice any damage, make sure to repair it as soon as possible.
Clean Your Asphalt Pavement Regularly
Another way to prevent asphalt water damage is to clean it regularly. Remove any dirt, debris, or leaves that may have accumulated on the surface. You can use a broom or a leaf blower to remove these items.
Seal Your Asphalt Pavement
Sealing your asphalt pavement is one of the best ways to prevent asphalt water damage. Asphalt sealant will fill in any pavement cracks or holes and create a barrier preventing water from seeping into the asphalt.
Apply a Waterproofing Agent to Your Asphalt Pavement
Another way to prevent asphalt water damage is to apply a waterproofing agent to it. Waterproofing agents will create a barrier on the surface of the asphalt that will prevent water from seeping in and causing damage.
Repair Any Damage to Your Asphalt Pavement Immediately
If you do notice any water damage to your asphalt pavement, it is important to repair it immediately. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become. Make sure to patch any cracks or holes and seal the asphalt surface to prevent asphalt water damage further.
Asphalt surfaces around your property may need extra protection to prevent asphalt water damage, and Sealcoating 2.0 can provide that protection with its sealcoating services. The company has been up-to-date on recent techniques to apply the sealant, so you can trust in a job that is both efficient and reliable. When left without protection, water damage may cause irreversible damage to asphalt features. With such a high price tag for replacement projects, it’s best to keep your asphalt well-maintained by preventing issues before they happen. So as one of the most experienced professionals in the area regarding sealcoat implementation, Sealcoating 2.0 offers everything necessary to ensure your hardscaping projects remain safe from weather destruction. Contact them today, and don’t worry about any future water damage problems – the sealcoating will have you covered! Prevent asphalt water damage with our services!