You may already know how your asphalt will contract and expand with winter weather and freezing temperatures, but have you ever considered what happens during warmer months? It’s important you understand how warmer weather affects asphalt so you can do everything possible to maintain it.
Heat Causing Cracks
The heat of summer will cause cracks in your asphalt. This can happen on the first warm day after a long winter, but it could also happen on a very hot day in the middle of summer. Once your asphalt has cracks in it, there will be air pockets through and beneath the surface. Any pressure put on it, such as by a vehicle driving on top of the crack, will cause the surface to further crack and crumble into those air pockets.
Cracks that are not repaired in a timely manner could end up causing more serious damage as a pothole begins to form. If it rains, the water will seep down to create more crumbling and collapsing as well. Once winter hits again, the water that has collected in the cracks will freeze, causing the cracks to become bigger.
Sun Fading
The sun will also cause asphalt to fade over time. While this isn’t damaging structurally, it will damage the visual appeal of your lot. If you’re going for that great first impression, a fresh sealcoating will do the trick to get your asphalt looking new again.
Repairing the Damage
If you notice any heat or sun damage on your asphalt during the warmer months, it’s important you get it repaired as soon as possible. Contact NVM Paving & Concrete by calling 703-423-0471 or emailing us today to learn more about how we can protect your asphalt from the damaging effects of the sun.
