If you are a business owner, it is important to understand the common sources of damage to commercial asphalt surfaces. This way, you can work with your parking lot maintenance team to find a solution and protect your pavement from further harm.
This article explores the main causes and solutions for asphalt damage.
Uneven Settling and Shifting
It is not uncommon for an asphalt surface to become uneven over time due to settling or shifting. This type of damage often occurs because the soil underneath the pavement has been poorly compacted or has shifted due to changes in moisture content.
And in a commercial setting, heavier vehicles can cause additional damage to the surface. The sheer weight of the vehicles can exert undue pressure on the pavement, resulting in serious cracks for settling.
To avoid this problem, it is important to ensure that the subgrade below your asphalt surface is properly prepared with proper compaction before paving begins. Additionally, any drainage issues should be addressed before paving to prevent long-term shifts or settling in the pavement. Such issues could include deep puddles, standing water, and pooling near the pavement surface.
Weathering and Sun Damage
Another common source of damage for commercial asphalt surfaces is weathering and sun damage caused by long exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. Over time, these UV rays will cause the asphalt binder material in your pavement to break down, leading to cracking and other signs of wear and tear.
While this problem isn't just limited to commercial asphalt surfaces, it is more likely to occur in parking lots exposed to direct sunlight without any protecting trees or structures.
The best way to protect against this type of damage is through regular seal coating applications every few years. Sealcoating helps block UV rays from reaching your pavement and also helps fill in small cracks so they don't become larger over time. It also provides an additional layer of protection against water penetration, which can further damage the asphalt binder.
Oil Spills & Chemical Leaks
The final major cause of damage that should be considered for commercial asphalt surfaces is oil spills and chemical leaks. These substances can cause significant staining on an asphalt surface if not dealt with quickly.
They can also weaken the structure of your pavement over time due to their corrosive nature. The result isn't just an unsightly stain but a weakened surface more prone to cracking and major damage.
To prevent this type of issue on your commercial property, keep all chemicals stored safely away from your pavement surface. Also, provide proper signage indicating where spills should be reported immediately so they can be cleaned up quickly before any permanent damage occurs.
To learn more, contact a professional asphalt service in your area such as Affordable Parking Lot Solution, LLC.
Most people do not think twice as they drive over a nice, smooth paved road or park on a flat, well-paved driveway. But there is a lot of work that goes into creating smooth, strong paved surfaces. Paving contractors need to lay out a driveway or parking lot properly to ensure good drainage. They also need to formulate the pavement material properly for the given climate and conditions. As you start reading the articles on this website, you will gain more insight into the life and work of paving contractors. The next time you pull into a parking lot, you will definitely find yourself thinking about what lies underneath your tires.