Asphalt is one of the most durable materials for a parking lot, though the weather can still wreak havoc on it. Pavement in areas that experience weather both hot and cold, wet and dry, can be affected in a multitude of ways. The following are just a few examples.
Hot Weather
Heat isn’t typically the biggest problem for asphalt, but it can cause a few issues. One problem is the sun’s rays. They will begin to fade that dark black into a lighter, more unsightly gray color. The surface of the asphalt becomes soft when the temperature is particularly high, causing it to crack.
Cold Weather
Cold weather could be the biggest culprit of weather damage on asphalt. When the ground freezes and thaws, your pavement will begin to crack due to the opposite types of pressure put on it. Snowplows, ice melt, and other snow removal processes are harsh on the pavement as well.
Wet Weather
As you can imagine, when water seeps down into the cracks that are already on the pavement, the base begins to weaken. When the structural integrity of your pavement is compromised, the entire driveway or parking lot can begin to crack, sink, and experience other types of damage. When water and cold weather are paired together, the freeze-thaw cycle is worsened, which also worsens damage.
Dry Weather
The dry weather itself doesn’t actually do much to the pavement. However, when the dry is mixed with an extremely hot day, it could buckle and crumble more harshly than you might expect.
What You Can Do
Maintenance is key in keeping your pavement high-functioning and in good shape. Be sure to fill cracks as they appear and have the pavement sealcoated every few years. Use trusted professionals to plow the snow from your pavement, reducing the risk of unnecessary damage. Make sure your lot has a proper drainage route and repair any problem areas as they occur.
Calling Someone Who Can Help
Whether your commercial pavement is severely damaged or fairly new, keeping up on maintenance and repairs is essential. Contact NVM Paving & Concrete by calling 703-423-0471 or emailing us today to learn more.
