Essential Tips for Extending the Life of Your Asphalt Pavements

What is Asphalt Pavement?

Asphalt pavement is comprised of sticky black residue, a byproduct of crude oil processing, and composite materials such as sand, rock, gravel, and stones. This material is a popular choice for pavements as it is highly durable and cost-effective. Asphalt is also very flexible. It can withstand weather changes and heavy loads without cracking. Asphalt also has a very smooth surface that is appealing to homeowners. With proper care, asphalt can last up to 20 years.

Understanding the Importance of Asphalt Maintenance

Although asphalt is very durable, it must be maintained to prevent damage and decay. Without the proper maintenance, it can crack, break, and form ruts and potholes.

Benefits of Regular Asphalt Maintenance

Some benefits of regular asphalt maintenance include:

• Cost Effectiveness
  Maintaining an asphalt pavement can help you save money in several ways. For example, investing in regular maintenance will save you money on costly repairs or more extensive damage. Additionally, maintaining asphalt pavements will increase the value of your property.
• Enhances Safety
  A well-maintained asphalt surface will reduce the risks associated with cracks, ruts, and potholes. Accidents associated with tripping over pavement flaws will significantly decrease with regular maintenance. Keeping a clean, sealed, crack-free pavement will increase visibility and improve safety conditions.
• Extends Lifespan
  Regular maintenance of asphalt pavement means it will last much longer than poorly maintained pavement. This type of regular care means not having to worry about structural issues and can extend the lifespan of the asphalt by several years.
• Environmental Benefits
  Regularly caring for asphalt pavement means reducing the waste that repairs and replacements can cost. Disposing of old asphalt can be costly and environmentally hazardous.

Essential Tips for Extending the Life of Your Asphalt Pavement

What are some ways to maintain an asphalt pavement?

Regular Cleaning
When debris like oil, dirt, and other wastes build up on asphalt pavement, it can cause deterioration over time. Regularly cleaning asphalt pavement can help prevent stains and other damage.

Fill Cracks and Potholes
When cracks are left unrepaired on asphalt pavement, they can lead to more severe damage, like potholes. This is because water can seep into cracks in the asphalt and cause more damage. When cracks are sealed as they appear, water damage is prevented, and the life of the asphalt pavement is extended.

Sealcoating
The application of a coat of sealant can protect pavement in many ways. It can protect from water, oil, chemicals, and even UV rays. A sealant also gives the asphalt the appearance of new pavement, restoring its original appearance.

Prevent Water Accumulation
Installing a proper drainage system is extremely important in protecting your pavement. If you have standing water on your asphalt pavement, you may be risking damage. Water can weaken the asphalt, making it more susceptible to cracks, holes, and other damage.

Control Weeds and Vegetation Growth
Weeds and other greenery can be sneaky and sprout up in tiny weaknesses in your asphalt, either causing cracks or making them worse. When you can control your weeds and other growth, you will be protecting your asphalt surface. Concerned about spraying weed killers? There are environmentally friendly, organic weed killers available on the market that will do the trick.

Avoid Heavy Loads and Sharp Objects
Limiting heavy vehicles on your asphalt will help prevent wear and tear. Reinforcing areas frequented by heavy loads is another effective method.

Regular Inspections
Hiring someone to inspect the asphalt pavement regularly will help extend its lifespan. Contact Driveways 2Day for assistance with inspections and professional care.

Invest in an Asphalt Maintenance Plan
Many asphalt installers will offer tips and assistance for an asphalt maintenance plan. Resurfacing is also a great idea. Rather than breaking up and disposing of the whole asphalt area, it will be quicker, easier, and more cost-effective to resurface the asphalt. This entails applying a new layer of asphalt over the old layer. This process will extend the life of the asphalt pavement and help maintain its quality and appearance.

Conclusion

No matter what, maintaining your asphalt pavement is a necessary process that will help extend its life and improve its appearance. From cleaning to sealing to getting rid of weeds and debris, these steps will help maintain a beautiful asphalt pavement. For more information about how to maintain your asphalt pavement, look to the experts at Driveways 2Day in Frederick, MD, and the surrounding areas. From installation to proper care to helpful cleaning tips, our friendly staff is happy to talk to you about maintaining your asphalt pavement. You’ve made a great choice in asphalt, a choice that improves the durability, price, and lifespan of your pavement. Now, it’s time to take care of your purchase. For more information or to talk to our knowledgeable staff, contact us or visit our website.