3 Causes of a Damaged Asphalt Pavement and Why Timely Resurfacing Is Critical
Asphalt is one of the commonly used materials to make driveways and other types of pavements in both the residential and commercial environments. Asphalt pavements are easy to install and can serve you for decades when you take the right measures to maintain them. If you have installed one, it's advisable to watch the pavement closely for signs of deterioration and repair or resurface it when necessary. Some of the most common indicators of asphalt problems include alligator cracks, depressions and potholes on the surface.
You should call an asphalt contractor as soon as you notice signs of wear and tear to resurface the pavement so it can look new and attractive again. They will figure out the cause of the damage and recommend the most appropriate way to repair or resurface it. Here are three of the most common reasons an asphalt pavement is likely to disintegrate and why you should consider resurfacing.
Water Damage
Water is one of the most destructive elements of all types of construction. When water interacts with your asphalt surfaces in the wrong way, it damages them from the top downwards. Typically, water damage will be faster and more lethal when the surface already has weaknesses. Water damage is also extensive when you have not sealed your asphalt. Only a comprehensive assessment from an expert can help determine whether the damage is repairable or you need to resurface the entire driveway.
Cracks on the Asphalt
Cracks are an indication that your asphalt is falling apart below the surface. Sometimes, cracks will form because the substrate is weak and cannot handle the vehicle weight. Most of these cracks result in an alligator pattern on the pavement. Cracks might also emerge because tree roots and other vegetation are growing too close to the asphalt pavement. However, a professional will assess the types of cracks they are dealing with to determine whether you need to repair or resurface the entire pavement.
Chemical Contamination
Another common cause of trouble on asphalt surfaces is chemicals. Engine oil and other contaminants can wreak havoc on your asphalt pavement in a big way, especially when improperly sealed. Chemicals slowly corrode the pavement's surface, creating small depressions. The depressions then become sites for water damage when the winter comes.
If corrosion isn't handled in good time, it leads to potholes, and these can damage the entire path. Potholes are a major safety hazard on any asphalt pavement or driveway. The extent of the damage will help determine whether you should repair or resurface it.
Contact a competent concrete contractor to inspect the condition of your asphalt. The contractor will also help repair the ruined parts of the pavement. If the pavement is extensively damaged or ruined, they will resurface it to lengthen the life of your asphalt.
For more information, contact an asphalt resurfacing contractor.