If you drive on asphalt roads, you need to know how to keep them properly maintained. There are several ways that you can do this. These include Sealcoating, repairing cracks and potholes, and preventive maintenance.
Preventive maintenance
Hiring asphalt contractors near me is the best course of action to do proper asphalt road maintenance, which is essential for maintaining the durability and safety of your asphalt surface. It’s also an excellent way to avoid costly repairs and restoration.
A good, well-constructed asphalt pavement can last up to 25 years. The lifespan of your pavement depends on factors such as construction quality, weather, traffic, and maintenance strategy.
You can extend your surface’s life by performing specific maintenance tasks at critical intervals. These measures include crack sealing, debris removal, and line striping. However, it’s essential to know when to do these tasks.
The best time to perform any of these steps is when the street is still in good condition. Failing to do so will only result in more damage to your surface and may lead to more expensive repairs.
Other common types of maintenance options include slurry seal and chip seal. These products create a protective barrier between the asphalt and the elements. Keeping these products in top condition can significantly lengthen the life of your pavement.
If you’re planning to install a new asphalt road, you must plan your maintenance strategy carefully. Regular cleaning and debris removal are essential to protect the pavement from dirt and other elements that can lead to deterioration.
For example, a crack can cause severe damage to your asphalt if left untreated. The best method for preventing cracks is to seal them. Depending on the size of the crack, you can use a hot rubber crack sealer fortified with a polymer. Alternatively, you may have to remove and replace the entire affected area.
Sealcoating
Sealcoating asphalt road is an inexpensive and effective way to prevent cracks from developing. This protective layer blocks out harmful elements such as rain and UV rays. It also helps preserve the black color of the asphalt. It can help you avoid the hassle of costly repairs and prolong the life of your driveway.
The process is simple and can be done on your own. Clean the area, apply a seal coat, and wait for it to dry. You can complete the task on the weekend if the weather is favorable.
Talk to a professional to find the best seal coat for your needs—several options suit your needs, from acrylic polymer to coal tar sealer. The acrylic variety produces fewer VOCs.
The best seal coat for your driveway or parking lot depends on the age of the surface and the climate. For example, asphalt driveways exposed to heavy rain and snow need a new seal coat every two years.
Sealcoating will also help protect your property from slippery potholes. It’s crucial to patch deep cracks with asphalt patching compound before applying a liquid sealer.
Another benefit of seal coating is the aesthetically pleasing appearance of the pavement. The glossy black color of the new layer is noticeable and will make your property more attractive to potential buyers.
Repairing cracks and potholes
If you have potholes or cracks in your asphalt road, it is crucial to repair them immediately. Doing so will avoid worse problems and cost you money.
Several types of solutions are available for repairing cracks and potholes. Some solutions are temporary, while others are permanent. The type of solution you choose depends on the size of the hole, the location, and the severity of the damage.
If you have a small pothole, you can fill it with a crack filler. This solution will prevent water from getting into the crack. It can help prevent larger cracks in the future. However, it will not fix the underlying problem.
If your pothole is large, you will need specialized equipment to get it repaired. You should also remove any vegetation from the edge of the pavement. It can help prevent water from entering the subgrade and causing enormous damage.
Another solution is to use infrared patching. This method is cost-effective and long-lasting. Infrared pothole patching heats the pavement’s cracks so they can be sealed, preventing further damage.
You will want to use a cold asphalt patch if you live in a cold area. This method can be applied in any weather, including rain or snow.