How Weather Affects Your Asphalt Pavement

 

Asphalt is the most popular material used in pavement construction due to its durability, cost-effectiveness, and smooth finish. While asphalt is designed to withstand the daily wear and tear of vehicles and weather elements, it is still susceptible to damage caused by severe weather conditions. Factors such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, rainfall, and snowfall can lead to cracks and potholes in your pavement, which can compromise the safety of your customers and employees. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at how weather affects your asphalt and how you can maintain your pavement in good condition.

 

Temperature Fluctuations

Temperature changes can be destructive to your asphalt pavement. Repeated cycles of freezing and thawing can cause your pavement to expand and contract, leading to cracks and potholes. Extreme heat can also cause your asphalt to soften and lose its strength, leading to raveling and other forms of damage. Installing a layer of sealcoat can help to protect your pavement from the effects of temperature fluctuations and extend its lifespan.

Humidity

Humidity levels also affect the performance of your asphalt pavement. High humidity levels can cause moisture to penetrate your pavement, leading to pavement failures such as potholes and cracks. Additionally, high humidity levels can cause the materials used to create your pavement to lose their strength and durability, making it more prone to damage.

Rainfall

Heavy rainfall can cause significant damage to your asphalt pavement. Water runoff can seep into the base course of your pavement, weakening it and causing instability. When water penetrates your pavement, it can also cause the material to erode or wash away, leading to potholes and other forms of damage. Installing adequate drainage systems can help to prevent water from accumulating on your pavement and compromising its stability.

Snowfall

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your asphalt pavement if not managed properly. Snow and ice create moisture that can penetrate your pavement and cause it to expand and contract, leading to cracking and other forms of damage. Additionally, the use of de-icing chemicals and snowplows can cause damage to your pavement and accelerate its wear and tear. Regular snow and ice removal can help to prevent the accumulation of moisture on your pavement and extend its lifespan.

 

Conclusion

Maintaining your asphalt pavement is crucial to ensure its longevity and safety for your customers and employees. By understanding how weather affects your pavement, you can better prepare for its maintenance needs and minimize the risk of costly repairs. Contact M. Carroll Blacktop Services today for a free quote on asphalt paving services in Stockton, CA, and let our experienced team help you maintain your pavement in top condition. Don't let weather elements compromise the safety and functionality of your pavement- choose M. Carroll Blacktop Services for all your asphalt paving needs.