During the winter months, commercial property owners can save money and time by addressing asphalt cracks as soon as they appear. Winter temperatures can damage asphalt pavement and increase the risk of personal injuries and motor vehicle accidents.
The Science Behind Asphalt Cracking in Cold Weather
The materials used to make asphalt determine how asphalt will respond to temperature changes, harsh winter weather, and regular usage by motor and foot traffic. Asphalt is designed to be flexible so that it expands and contracts depending on the current temperatures.
Severe cold weather conditions cause asphalt to lose its flexibility as it contracts. As moisture penetrates the crevices in the asphalt, it freezes and expands. This leads to cracks, potholes, indentations, and other damage to the structure of the asphalt.
Types of Asphalt Cracks Caused by Cold Weather
- Transverse Cracks: Asphalt cracks that run perpendicular to the pavement are referred to as transverse cracks. This type of asphalt cracking during cold weather is often due to temperature changes and heavy-weighted vehicles.
- Longitudinal Cracks: These cracks run parallel to traffic and can be caused by fluctuating temperatures and load stresses. Longitudinal cracks are usually considered cosmetic damage and do not adversely affect the structural components of the pavement.
- Alligator Cracking: As the name suggests, alligator cracks are a network of interconnected cracks that look similar to alligator skin. These lines crisscross in different patterns due to strain from heavy-weighted vehicles, improper sub-base compaction, and inadequate drainage.
How Moisture Causes Asphalt Damage During the Winter
- Water Penetration: Rain, snow, and moisture enter the asphalt through cracks and holes in the surface. As the liquid penetrates the asphalt, it deteriorates the binder, rocks, and sand within the asphalt composition.
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Fluctuating temperatures impact asphalt pavement due to the frequent freeze-thaw cycles. Water that has infiltrated the asphalt can cause new cracks and worsen existing cracks, leading to potholes. As the asphalt shifts by contraction during thawing, it weakens the binding agents and aggregates.
- De-Icing Chemicals and Salt: Most commercial-grade snow melters contain harsh chemicals to melt snow and ice quickly. If not used correctly, these chemicals can penetrate the surface of the asphalt and damage the asphalt aggregates.
Signs Your Asphalt Is Suffering from Winter Damage
- Visible cracks or potholes forming in the asphalt
- Fading or discolouration of asphalt surface due to cold temperatures and de-icing chemicals
- Uneven surface caused by frost heave or water intrusion
How to Prevent Winter Asphalt Cracking
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspecting and maintaining the pavement year-round can reduce the need for replacements and lower the risk of motor vehicle accidents and personal injuries. Clearing away debris, filling cracks and potholes, and ensuring all surfaces are even can protect the asphalt long after the snow begins to fall.
- Sealcoating: Applying a sealant to the surface of the asphalt can protect asphalt from water and salt damage. The sealcoat binds to the pavement to prevent water and de-icing chemicals from infiltrating the molecules of the asphalt mixture.
- Proper Drainage: Standing water from rain or melting snow can penetrate into the asphalt surface and cause damage to the structure. Installing proper drainage at key points throughout the paved property can prevent water infiltration and asphalt damage.
- Timely Repairs: Asphalt repairs should be performed before the winter season begins to prevent further damage. Patching can be done throughout the winter as a temporary solution until permanent repairs can be completed in the warmer months.
Winter-Resistant Asphalt Options and Materials
When it comes to the variable weather conditions during the winter season, not all asphalt is the same. The right aggregate mixture combined with the proper installation techniques can offer long-term resistance to weather damage.
When quick winter asphalt repairs are needed, experts rely on cold mix asphalt as a temporary solution to fix potholes, cracking, and other asphalt damage. Cold mix asphalt is comprised of aggregates, polymers, and additives for a durable interim repair.
While cold patch repairs are a quick, temporary solution, they fail to adequately fill or seal the asphalt damage, resulting in an inevitable recurrence of potholes. It’s merely a surface-level remedy that doesn’t address the root cause of the issue.
On the other hand, hot mix asphalt repair involves excavating the pavement around the pothole, filling it in, and sealing it with hot asphalt. This comprehensive repair process targets the original problem causing the pothole and prevents further damage. While the initial investment for hot mix repairs may be higher, it’s a cost-effective solution in the long run, eliminating the need for repeated repairs.
Why Professional Maintenance Matters during the Winter
- Expertise in Winter Asphalt Maintenance: For safety and aesthetic reasons, it is important to only hire professionals with extensive knowledge and experience about the effects of cold weather on asphalt. Professional contractors consider the fluctuating temperatures and moisture during the winter season in Ontario when installing and maintaining asphalt surfaces.
- Advanced Repair Techniques: Using professional tools and repair techniques, such as crack sealing and pothole repairs, ensures safe and long-lasting results. Professional asphalt contractors have the training and knowledge to operate state-of-the-art equipment and can guarantee high-quality results that lead to cost-savings.
- Long-Term Benefits: Asphalt experts offer regular maintenance to reduce the need for extensive repairs by prolonging the life of asphalt surfaces. Harsh winter weather conditions, combined with regular usage, can damage the asphalt and lead to instability. Regular inspections and maintenance can save property owners money in the long run.
Protect Your Asphalt This Winter with Sure-Seal Pavement!
Rely on the professional commercial paving services at Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. for your winter needs. Property owners have been putting their confidence in our team for more than 30 years.
We have the expertise, equipment, and solutions to protect your asphalt year-round. Our installation, maintenance, and repair services are backed with a seven-year warranty for your peace of mind. Call us today at (416) 410-3705 or complete our form for a free onsite consultation.