24 Nov Cocoa Beach, Florida Asphalt Paving Company Tips; The Different Types of Asphalt Deterioration
Asphalt is a very durable material, and it is preferred for most pavement projects. However, like all surfaces, it will become deteriorated over time. The reasons for this deterioration can range from improper surface preparation, to long term exposure to traffic and weather conditions. Whatever the case may be, it is a fact that, over time, the materials that are part of the asphalt start to break apart. When this happens, sunlight, rain, and chemicals will start to have more and more of an impact as the surface begins to show structural weaknesses.
Outside of natural wear and tear, there are certain factors that can have a disproportionately negative effect on the structural integrity of the asphalt surface. These factors may include:
- Improperly compacted or insufficient foundational material at the base of the asphalt
- Poor drainage
- Higher or lower than recommended asphalt temperature at the time of installation
- Under or over compaction of the asphalt itself
With proper preparation, construction, and maintenance, an asphalt surface will last for up to 25 years. Various maintenance procedures are key here, since environmental factors can be very damaging. These factors include:
- Water – Water can have a great impact on an asphalt surface, especially when the surface is not properly maintained. This is particularly true for standing bodies of water, which, over time, will infiltrate the surface of the asphalt. Once it reaches the foundation, it mollifies the base material and causes cracks, breakdowns, and eventually a collapse of the asphalt installation.
- Petroleum/chemical exposure – Oil and gas are two of the most common petroleum/chemical hazards for an asphalt surface. They are particularly dangerous in gas stations, where spills may occur more frequently. Petroleum chemicals will soften the asphalt and cause it to breakdown much faster.
- Sunlight – Sunlight will lead to oxidation, which dries out and breaks down the various chemical components of the asphalt aggregate. This, in turn, causes it to become brittle. Soon enough, imperfections will start to form in the surface, allowing water to penetrate it more easily.
Deterioration is, of course, natural—there is no way to prevent it, and it begins immediately after the asphalt surface has been constructed. Even in mild conditions and temperatures, substantial deterioration will occur in just 3 to 5 years. Within this time frame, asphalt will become brittle, turn gray, and start to crack. These imperfections in the asphalt will then be filled with water, which freezes and thaws during seasonal change. This process leads to large cracks and potholes in the asphalt, and as the water reaches the base of the installation, the damage becomes exponential.
Here are some of the common deteriorations caused by this cycle:
- Cracking – There are several types of cracks that will occur, and they are categorized in numerous ways, including shrinkage, widening, edge joints, reflections, slippage, and edge cracks.
- Distortion – Distortion occurs due to improper maintenance and construction processes, and it is a deterioration that occurs at the base of the asphalt. Distortions may include utility cut depressions, upheavals, grad depressions, corrugations, ruts, and channels.
- Disintegration – This type of deterioration occurs due to oil, gas, and chemical spillage, and it can lead to raveling and potholes.
Is Your Asphalt Starting to Deteriorate? In need of the services of a Cocoa Beach Area Asphalt Services Company?
If you are starting to notice any signs of deterioration, it is best to start planning for a maintenance project, and perhaps shopping around for quotes so you can estimate a budget. It is ideal to start right away. Otherwise, the problem will keep getting worse, and the cost of repairs will rise. At All Asphalt Services, we handle all issues related to asphalt paving in Daytona Beach—from installation, to maintenance programs, to repairs. Contact us today if you would like more information regarding our pricing and services, or with any other questions you may have.