Tips to Protect Your Asphalt Pavement
Asphalt pavement is a popular choice for driveways, parking lots, and roadways, due to its durability, affordability, and versatility. But like any other surface, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in pristine condition. Neglecting your asphalt pavement can lead to a host of problems, including cracks, potholes, and erosion. To ensure your asphalt pavement lasts for years, you need to take proactive steps to protect it from environmental factors and wear and tear. In this blog post, we'll share some tips to help you maintain your asphalt pavement and extend its lifespan.
Keep it Clean from Debris and Dirt
The first step towards protecting your asphalt pavement is to keep it clean from debris and dirt. Dirt and debris can act as abrasive agents and cause friction on the surface of the pavement. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear and may even create pits and cracks. Sweep your pavement on a regular basis to get rid of loose gravel, leaves, and other debris. You can also use a blower to remove fine particles that may be lodged in the surface.
Fill Cracks and Potholes Immediately
If you notice any cracks or potholes on your asphalt pavement, it's important to fill them immediately. As water seeps into these openings, it can cause damage to the subbase and weaken the pavement. Repairing cracks and potholes early on can prevent water from seeping into the subbase and prolong the life of your asphalt pavement. You can use a crack filler or asphalt patch to fill these openings quickly.
Sealcoat Regularly
An asphalt sealcoat is a protective coating that is applied to the surface of the pavement to protect it from damage caused by UV rays, water, and chemicals. Sealcoating can extend the lifespan of your asphalt pavement by up to 30%. It's recommended that you sealcoat your pavement every two to three years to ensure maximum protection.
Avoid Heavy Machinery on Pavement
Asphalt pavement is durable, but it's not designed to handle heavy machinery such as trucks and bulldozers. Heavy machines can put undue stress on the pavement and cause cracks and other damages. Avoid driving heavy machinery on your pavement, and if you need to, make sure that the load is evenly distributed to prevent damage.
Hire a Professional Asphalt Paving Company
The best way to protect your asphalt pavement is to hire a professional asphalt paving company that can provide you with the necessary maintenance services. A professional contractor can assess the condition of your pavement and recommend the best way to maintain it. They can provide sealcoating services, crack and pothole repair, and other essential maintenance services that can help extend the lifespan of your pavement.
Conclusion
Maintaining your asphalt pavement doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can protect your pavement from damage caused by environmental factors and wear and tear. Remember to keep your pavement clean, fill cracks and potholes immediately, sealcoat regularly, avoid heavy machinery, and hire a professional contractor. With these tips, you can ensure that your pavement lasts for years and provides a safe and functional surface for your home or business. Contact M. Caroll Blacktop for asphalt paving in Stockton, CA, to get a free quote today.