A Comprehensive Guide to Asphalt Maintenance
The maintenance of asphalt pavements extends far beyond routine cleaning and repairs. When asphalt is installed correctly, it can last for decades. However, exposure to elements such as rain, sunlight and chemicals can cause wear and tear, leading to the development of cracks, depressions, and potholes. Proper maintenance helps to prolong the life of the pavement, improves its appearance and increases its functionality. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to asphalt maintenance, covering various aspects of asphalt maintenance, including cleaning, sealing, crack filling and patching.
Cleaning
Asphalt pavement should be cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of debris and dirt that can cause wear and tear. This involves sweeping the pavement regularly and washing it using pressure washers or hoses with adjustable nozzles. It is important to avoid the use of harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia which can soften and damage the pavement. If you have stubborn stains, use a diluted solution of mild detergent and water and a scrub brush.
Sealing
Sealing is a process of applying a protective coating to the surface of the pavement to help prevent moisture penetration, ultraviolet (UV) rays damage and chemical spills. It is essential to sealcoat your pavement once every two to four years, depending on its location, wear and tear level and environmental conditions. Before applying sealcoat, patch any cracks, depressions, and potholes present to ensure the sealcoat adheres correctly.
Crack Filling
Crack filling involves filling up any cracks present in the pavement to prevent water from getting into the pavement and causing further damage. Asphalt cracks can be caused by a variety of factors including the weight of vehicles, extreme weather temperatures and natural wear and tear. Filling the cracks using an asphalt-based product can prevent further damage and prolong the life of the pavement. However, large potholes should be repaired professionally by a pavement contractor.
Patching
Patching is a process that involves repairing large potholes and areas of pavement that have severely deteriorated. A pavement contractor can cut out the damaged area, clean the debris, and replace it with new asphalt mix. This process may also involve fixing an underlying base problem that may have caused the deterioration in the first place.
Conclusion
Taking care of your asphalt pavement should be a priority if you want it to remain in good condition for years. Cleaning, sealing, crack filling and patching are all essential aspects of asphalt maintenance that you should not ignore. If you need assistance with asphalt paving in Stockton, CA, consider partnering with an experienced and professional pavement contractor. Contact M. Carroll Asphalt today for a free quote and professional paving services.