Common Asphalt Problems and How to Solve Them
Asphalt is utilized in a wide range of construction projects. The largest consumer of asphalt is road construction, where it's used as a binder mixed with aggregate particles to create asphalt concrete. This resulting material is used for surfacing roads, providing a smooth, durable, and weather-resistant drive.
Asphalt is often favored in these projects for its durability, cost-effectiveness, and relatively simple maintenance requirements. However, like any other material, asphalt is subject to several common problems, especially as it ages.
Potholes
One of the most common asphalt problems is potholes, which occur when the asphalt's surface layer deteriorates, leaving a hole that can damage vehicles and pose a safety hazard. Potholes occur primarily due to water's freezing and thawing effect on road surfaces. As water seeps into the cracks and crevices of the asphalt, it freezes during cold temperatures, causing expansion. Subsequent thawing leads to contraction, resulting in the weakening of the road layer. Over time, the ceaseless cycle of freezing and thawing, coupled with traffic pressure, leads to the formation of potholes.
Potholes can inflict considerable damage on vehicles, impacting the tires, suspension system, and alignment. Driving over a pothole can lead to punctured tires and bent rims or disruption of the vehicle's alignment, adversely affecting the car's handling. More severe impacts can damage the suspension, leading to costly repairs.
Potholes can be repaired through patching, which involves cleaning the pothole, applying a tack coat for adhesion, and filling it with a new asphalt mixture. After that, the area is compacted to ensure level with the surrounding surface. A team of asphalt professionals should handle pothole repairs and other common asphalt problems.
Cracking
Cracking is another typical issue with asphalt surfaces. There are several types of cracks, including alligator, block, and longitudinal, each with causes such as weather changes, poor installation, or heavy traffic. Alligator cracks resemble an alligator's skin, indicating subbase damage and demanding immediate repair. Block cracks form a square or circular pattern, indicating inadequate paving or severe temperature fluctuations. Longitudinal cracks run parallel to the pavement's direction, resulting from poor joint construction or pavement fatigue. Each crack type requires specific repair strategies to maintain the asphalt's integrity and prolong its lifespan.
The solution for cracks depends on their type and severity. Crack filling and sealing are standard methods for treating minor cracks, while more severe cracks may require surface patching or complete asphalt replacement.
Rutting
Rutting in asphalt refers to the deformation or groove formation typically found in the wheel path of roads. It's often a sign of structural failure in an asphalt pavement and is caused primarily by the repetitive passing of heavy vehicles. This can lead to unsafe driving conditions, so addressing rutting promptly is crucial to maintaining the integrity and safety of road infrastructure. Ruts can also cause water to pool on the surface, leading to further asphalt deterioration.
Rutting can be repaired by milling and replacing the affected area with a new, compacted asphalt layer. In severe cases, it may be necessary to reconstruct the entire pavement structure.
Oxidation
Exposure to sunlight and oxygen can cause asphalt to become brittle and crack in a process known as oxidation. This process results in an increase in asphalt's stiffness and a decrease in its flexibility. This leads to a brittle material prone to cracking, particularly under traffic load and during temperature fluctuations. The impact of asphalt oxidation is most noticeable in the form of potholes, raveling, and other pavement degradation, reducing the service life of roads and necessitating frequent repairs.
Oxidation can be prevented by applying a seal coating, a barrier against harmful elements. The coating should be reapplied every few years to maintain its effectiveness. Sealcoating is an effective preventive measure against common asphalt problems.
Drainage Issues
Proper drainage is crucial for the longevity of asphalt pavements and without proper drainage, a variety of asphalt problems may arise. Poorly draining asphalt can result in potholes, cracking, and premature deterioration.
Proper installation and maintenance of asphalt surfaces can prevent drainage issues. This includes ensuring the asphalt is installed with the correct slope to encourage water runoff and regular cleaning to prevent blockages in drainage systems.
Although asphalt is robust and resilient, it is not immune to problems. Effective maintenance practices, which include regular inspections, timely repairs, and, in some cases, preventive measures like seal coating, can prolong the lifespan of asphalt surfaces and keep them looking and functioning at their best.
When it comes to your asphalt paving and repair needs, choose a team that values quality and expertise. John Parichuk Paving provides top-notch service, utilizing quality materials and equipment to deliver exceptional results. Contact John Parichuk Paving today and experience the difference that professionalism makes.