Why Regular Asphalt Maintenance is Key to Long-Lasting Roads and Driveways

Asphalt is a popular choice for roads, driveways, and parking lots due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. When properly maintained, asphalt surfaces can last for decades, providing smooth and reliable surfaces for vehicles and pedestrians. However, without regular care, asphalt can quickly deteriorate due to various factors like weather, traffic, and general wear and tear. In this blog, we’ll explore why regular asphalt maintenance is essential for extending the lifespan of your roads and driveways and how Above Grade Construction Services can help keep your asphalt surfaces in top condition.

Understanding Asphalt Wear and Tear

Asphalt is a flexible material designed to handle the pressures of heavy loads and varying weather conditions. However, even the most well-constructed asphalt surface is susceptible to damage over time. Some of the most common causes of asphalt wear and tear include:

• Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures, such as the freezing and thawing cycles in colder climates like Edmonton, can cause the asphalt to crack and break. Water that seeps into cracks can freeze and expand, worsening the damage.
• Heavy Traffic: Frequent vehicle movement, especially from heavy trucks or equipment, can cause the asphalt to degrade faster. Continuous stress on the surface can lead to ruts and potholes.
• Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can break down the oils in the asphalt, leading to surface cracks and a rough, weathered appearance.
• Oil and Gas Spills: Spills from vehicles can cause asphalt to deteriorate. These chemicals can break down the material, causing it to soften and weaken.

Although asphalt is tough, neglecting maintenance can lead to long-term damage. Regular upkeep helps prevent small issues from growing into costly repairs, ultimately saving you time and money.

The Importance of Regular Asphalt Maintenance

Maintaining asphalt surfaces regularly is crucial for the following reasons:

1. Prevents Expensive Repairs
Small cracks or minor surface damage may seem insignificant at first, but they can quickly escalate into larger issues. When cracks develop in asphalt, water can seep in, causing further erosion. In cold climates, water that seeps into cracks can freeze and expand, leading to bigger cracks, potholes, and other serious issues. Regular maintenance, such as sealing cracks and resurfacing, prevents water from getting in and keeps minor issues from becoming expensive repairs.

2. Enhances the Appearance
A well-maintained asphalt surface adds to the curb appeal of your home or business. Cracks, potholes, and faded surfaces can make a property look neglected and unattractive. Regular sealcoating and repairs can restore the surface’s black color and smooth finish, making it look as good as new. If you plan to sell your property, a well-maintained asphalt driveway or parking lot can increase its value.

3. Extends the Lifespan of the Asphalt
The main benefit of regular asphalt maintenance is the extension of the surface’s lifespan. Asphalt that is properly maintained can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, depending on factors like traffic volume and climate. Routine maintenance, such as crack sealing, patching, and sealcoating, helps prevent premature deterioration and ensures your asphalt surface remains strong and durable for years to come.

4. Increases Safety
Cracks, potholes, and other surface imperfections can pose serious safety risks to vehicles and pedestrians. For example, potholes can cause tire damage or accidents, while cracks can lead to tripping hazards. By addressing these issues promptly, you ensure that your asphalt surface remains safe for everyone who uses it.

5. Protects Against Harsh Weather
In climates like Edmonton’s, where winters are cold and summers can be hot, asphalt surfaces are constantly exposed to harsh weather. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rainfall, and intense sun can weaken asphalt over time. Sealcoating, crack filling, and patching help protect the asphalt from the damaging effects of weather, providing an extra layer of defense against the elements.

The Asphalt Maintenance Process

The maintenance of asphalt surfaces generally involves several key steps. Each of these steps plays a vital role in preserving the condition of your asphalt and preventing long-term damage.

1. Inspection
Regular inspections are essential for identifying problems early on. Inspecting your asphalt surface allows you to spot cracks, potholes, or areas of wear before they become serious issues. It’s important to inspect your driveway or road at least once a year to catch any potential problems early.

2. Crack Sealing
Crack sealing is one of the most important steps in asphalt maintenance. Small cracks that appear on the surface can quickly turn into larger cracks if not addressed. Crack sealing involves filling the cracks with a rubberized sealant that prevents water from seeping into the underlying layers of asphalt. This prevents further cracking and helps maintain the structural integrity of the surface.

3. Pothole Repair
Potholes are often the result of water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles. When left untreated, they can become larger and more dangerous. Pothole repair involves removing the damaged material and filling the hole with fresh asphalt. This restores the surface to its original condition and ensures it remains safe for use.

4. Sealcoating
Sealcoating is the process of applying a protective layer to the asphalt surface. The sealant forms a barrier that protects the asphalt from UV rays, moisture, and chemicals. It also gives the surface a fresh, black appearance, improving curb appeal. Sealcoating should be done every 2 to 3 years, depending on weather conditions and traffic volume.

5. Resurfacing
In cases where the asphalt surface has significant damage, resurfacing may be necessary. Resurfacing involves laying a new layer of asphalt over the existing surface to restore its appearance and functionality. This can help extend the life of the asphalt without the need for a complete replacement. For more helpful tips, check this blog out https://www.sakretecanada.com/en/how-to-guide/repair-asphalt-surfaces.html.

Chart: Asphalt Maintenance Timeline

How Above Grade Construction Services Can Help

At Above Grade Construction Services, we understand the importance of regular asphalt maintenance for extending the life of your roads and driveways. Owned by Myles Montgomery, our company offers a wide range of services throughout Edmonton, Alberta, including asphalt repair, concrete repair, foundation repair, interior renovations, and more. We specialize in providing high-quality maintenance and repair services for both residential and commercial properties.

Our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring that your asphalt surfaces remain in top condition. Whether it’s crack sealing, pothole repair, or sealcoating, we have the knowledge and experience to handle all aspects of asphalt maintenance. We work with you to create a customized maintenance plan that fits your needs and budget, ensuring that your asphalt surfaces stay safe and durable for years to come.

Contact Us Today for a Complimentary Estimate

Don’t wait until small cracks and potholes turn into expensive repairs. Contact Above Grade Construction Services today for a complimentary estimate tailored to your specific requirements. We’re committed to providing reliable, cost-effective solutions that help protect your asphalt surfaces.

To get started, visit our contact page at https://agcservices.ca/contact-us/ or call us at 587-336-7404. Let us help you maintain the longevity and safety of your asphalt surfaces with our expert services.