Common Causes of Asphalt Wear and Tear: Insights from an Asphalt Paving Contractor in Winter Park, Florida

09 Oct Common Causes of Asphalt Wear and Tear: Insights from an Asphalt Paving Contractor in Winter Park, Florida

If you manage a commercial parking lot or driveway in Winter Park, Florida, it is important to keep your asphalt in the best possible condition. Florida’s harsh sun and heavy rains, along with all the traffic, can speed up the natural wear and tear on asphalt surfaces. But with an understanding of what causes asphalt to deteriorate, you can tackle any problems early on and keep your investment safe.

Below, this asphalt paving contractor in Winter Park, Florida is going to explore some of the most common reasons why asphalt can deteriorate, and what you can do to maintain your paved areas.

Weather

Hot weather can really take a toll on your asphalt. Over time, the sun’s UV rays break down the natural oils and resins in the asphalt that keep it strong and flexible. When that happens, you will notice the shiny black color of fresh asphalt fading to a dull gray. This is a clear sign that the material is drying out and getting more brittle.

When the asphalt dries out, it is also more likely to crack. And once those cracks appear, water can get in and weaken the asphalt underneath. In Florida, where heavy rainstorms are very common, water damage can get out of hand fast. That water not only softens the base but can also make it swell, which adds extra pressure on the surface and leads to even more cracks.

A professional asphalt paving contractor in Winter Park, Florida will tell you that proper drainage systems and sealcoating are very important in keeping your asphalt safe from the sun and rain. These proactive measures help keep the asphalt integrally sound by preventing water from penetrating its surface and slowing down the drying effects of UV exposure.

Heavy traffic

Asphalt can handle a lot of weight, but there is a limit. High volumes of traffic or heavy vehicles, like delivery and garbage trucks, can make the surface wear down faster. The weight from all those tires can cause the surface to sink and shift, creating ruts and dips. Eventually, these spots can start to collect water, which can accelerate cracking and potholes.

If you notice any dents or cracks in your asphalt, you should take care of them sooner rather than later to avoid bigger problems. A professional asphalt paving contractor in Winter Park, Florida, can check the damage and recommend resurfacing or repairs to keep things from getting worse.

Neglecting maintenance

One of the common mistakes that commercial property owners make is ignoring their asphalt until it is already in bad shape. But like anything else constantly exposed to the weather and heavy traffic, asphalt needs some regular maintenance to stay in good condition. For example, sealcoating done every few years can protect asphalt from oxidation and water damage.

If you don’t keep up with maintenance, small cracks can end up getting bigger and costing you more in the future. When you ignore those cracks, water can penetrate the asphalt and cause the base to weaken and shift. Over time, this can lead to bigger problems like potholes or alligator cracking.

An asphalt paving contractor in Winter Park, Florida can handle everything from patching small cracks to routine sealcoating to help you keep your pavement in the best condition it can be.

Chemical spills

Another thing that can deteriorate asphalt, especially in commercial parking lots, is exposure to chemicals. Gasoline, oil, and other car fluids can weaken the materials that keep the asphalt intact, causing it to get soft and wear away.

Keeping your asphalt clean and quickly dealing with any spills is very important. A professional asphalt paving contractor in Winter Park, Florida can apply a sealant to give your asphalt parking lot or driveway some extra protection against oil and chemicals.

Looking for an Asphalt Paving Contractor in Winter Park, Florida?

Are you ready to partner with an experienced asphalt paving contractor in Winter Park, Florida who can help you maintain your asphalt surfaces? If so, you’ve come to the right place. At All Asphalt Services, Inc., we specialize in asphalt paving, repairs, sealcoating, and maintenance to make sure your asphalt surfaces are safe, compliant, and built to last. Contact us today to learn more about our services.