Rainfall seems pleasant to many but can be a headache to property managers and owners with asphalt pavements. While spring showers are often lighter, they can still wreak havoc on your property.
Constant water pressure is likely to weaken and damage any construction material. The same is the case with asphalt construction, as improper or lack of maintenance can aggravate minor damage into a major cost. This is why asphalt paving contractors recommend preventative measures before rainfall to avoid the hassle.
Today’s blog post will discuss the top three ways spring rainfall can damage an asphalt pavement.
1. Water Pressure
While many assume extreme cold and heat are the main culprits behind damaged asphalt pavements, constant water pressure can also weaken the asphalt.
Timely maintenance ensures safety, else rainfall can cause cracks and potholes in asphalt pavement. Over time, these cracks can expand themselves and weaken the foundational structure of the asphalt pavement.
2. Standing Water
If there is no proper drainage system to allow the exit of rainwater from the pavement, then the standing water can cause more damage. Stagnant water goes through various weather fluctuations, which cause stripping of the aggregate and binder.
After stripping, it is only a matter of time until an asphalt pavement completely unravels and has to be repaved.
3. Pooling Water
If there is a proper drainage system in place and still there are puddles of water in various areas, it means there are bumps and unleveled ground, causing the water collect in one place.
How to Prevent the Damage?
- Asphalt Patching: In the case of rainfall and the damage it causes to asphalt, it is essential to repair the damage. Patching the areas where asphalt has been ripped off, or cracks and potholes have emerged is necessary.
- Water Drainage: You should install a proper drainage system before the construction of an asphalt pavement. There are different kinds of asphalt materials, some of which allow water to pass through the pavement layers and filter into the soil and ground.
- Seal Coating: This is one way to prevent damage to the pavement before the rainfall season. Seal coating is the process of applying a thin layer over the asphalt pavement to protect it from sun, snow, or rain damage.
- Asphalt Maintenance: While foundational errors in asphalt pavement cannot be fixed right away, repairing the minor damages can cost less than reconstruction. Cracks and potholes in asphalt pavement can be fixed and patched as a DIY project, and seal coating can be applied as a protective layer.
Maintenance and seal coating of asphalt pavement are minor fixes that prevent costly repairs. If you need help maintaining your asphalt pavement, or applying preventative measures before the rainfall season begins, get in touch with Garden State Paving & Seal Coating, LLC. Let us help you with your paving needs in Moorestown, NJ, and ensure your asphalt is in tip-top shape. Get a free estimate for our services today!
