The Forecast Calls for Cracks: Preventing Heat Damage on Asphalt

With the mercury rising and summer fast approaching, asphalt surfaces bear the brunt of the increasing heat and the accompanying UV radiation. Understanding this relationship is key to preemptively shielding these surfaces and ensuring their durability. Heat can accelerate the oxidation of asphalt, leading this robust material to become brittle and susceptible to cracks. UV rays compound this effect by breaking down the chemical bonds within the asphalt, leading to discoloration, and further degradation.

Sudden Temperature Changes Can Affect Asphalt Surfaces

A shift from a mild spring to intense summer heat can significantly affect asphalt surfaces. Here's what typically happens:

1. Thermal Expansion and Contraction: Asphalt is sensitive to temperature changes. In cooler spring temperatures, the asphalt contracts, and as summer heat quickly sets in, it expands. This constant expansion and contraction can lead to the formation of cracks.
2. Oxidation: The heat speeds up the oxidation process, which makes the asphalt brittle. This increases the likelihood of cracks and other surface damage.
3. Softening: Asphalt can soften in high temperatures, making it more susceptible to deformation. Heavy traffic on softened asphalt can cause ruts and indentations.
4. Increased Potholes: Rapid temperature changes exacerbate existing cracks and imperfections. Water can seep into cracks during the spring, and when the temperature rises, the expansion can cause the surface to break apart, leading to potholes.
5. Raveling: The surface aggregates can become loose due to the softened binder losing its grip on the aggregates, leading to a rougher surface texture known as raveling.
6. Surface Damage: The sudden shift can also weaken the bond between the asphalt layers, resulting in surface damage like flaking or stripping.

Asphalt Protective Maintenance

Property managers should consider professional treatments that are specifically designed to withstand the damaging effects of heat. Sealcoating, for example, offers a layer of protection against the damaging effects of UV rays and heat, while also improving the overall look of the pavement. Investing in this sealant can greatly increase the lifespan of your asphalt surface, providing long-term benefits.  It is important to address the natural flow of water to prevent issues such as pooling, cracks, and potholes from occurring. Application of asphalt crack seal can save you a significant amount of money.

When it comes to managing asphalt surfaces on large properties, efficiency and cost-effectiveness are key. Regular evaluations can assist in detecting potential issues at an early stage. Taking a proactive approach is much more cost-effective than having to fund extensive repairs after damage has already occurred. 

By properly maintaining the integrity of surfaces, property owners can avoid the hassle and expense of extensive repairs. It's a simple matter of taking preventive measures to protect your surface and avoid future issues. Regular maintenance and timely repairs by experienced professionals like Go Pave Utah can help mitigate these effects, preserving the integrity and lifespan of your asphalt surfaces.