During the summer, it is easy for pavement to become damaged and require asphalt repair.
Hot temperatures, increased UV radiation, and longer daylight hours are all common during the summertime. While most people are aware of the dangers of sunburns and becoming overheated, many people don’t realize that their asphalt pavement is also susceptible to sun damage.
By following the right pavement maintenance procedures, you can ensure that your asphalt is in good condition and doesn’t require any costly repair.
How Summer Damages Asphalt Driveways
When temperatures heat up, so does your asphalt. When an asphalt driveway is heated up past a certain point, the asphalt can actually soften, making it more susceptible to damage. When asphalt pavement is soft, it can easily be scratched, scuffed, sunk, punctured, or otherwise damaged. Many things—from using jacks or tools on your asphalt to parking in the same spot—can cause damage when asphalt is soft.
Furthermore, UV radiation can degrade the surface of your asphalt. Over time, exposure to sunlight radiation can cause damage to your pavement surface. As well, asphalt absorbs UV rays, which in turn help heat it up even more.
Tips for Preventing Damage to Asphalt Driveways
Damage to your asphalt can mean costly repair. By using proper pavement maintenance, you can prevent damage and save on repair costs. Here are some ways to keep your asphalt in good condition during the summer months.
Crack Repairs
When cracks or punctures form in your pavement, then your driveway can become very susceptible to water damage. If it rains or if you’re using a sprinkler, water can seep into cracks and holes, degrading the asphalt beneath. Having cracks repaired can prevent the costliest forms of damage from occurring.
Filling Holes
Potholes are a major form of pavement damage. Not only are potholes a serious safety hazard, but they can become much worse and more expensive when neglected. If there are potholes on your property, they should be filled immediately.
Driveway Sealing
UV radiation can degrade your asphalt. Driveway sealing (or sealcoating) provides a buffer to your asphalt, which protects it from UV radiation in the summer and other weather elements in the winter. Driveway sealing can also cover small cracks, keeping your asphalt safe from water damage when it rains.
Don’t Park in the Same Spot
When your guests park on your driveway, they probably always use the same spots. However, when asphalt is softened from heat, parking in the same spot can actually cause damage. The pressure from various car can cause the softened asphalt to sink in or deform.
Avoid Sharp Objects
If you’re using tools, like jacks or screwdrivers on your driveway, be aware that these sharp objects can actually cause punctures and scratches in hot asphalt.
Deal with Pooling Water
If pooling water is left on your pavement after it rains, it can cause severe damage, including cracks. Make sure that your pavement has a level surface that properly drains water. Consider having a catch basin installed, depending on the size and type of your asphalt surface.
Hire a Paving Company in Toronto for Pavement Repair
To ensure that your pavement is maintained properly, you should always use qualified paving companies in Toronto for major repair and maintenance. Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. is the leading pavement maintenance contractor in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), providing professional repairs and services for your asphalt. At Sure-Seal, our qualified contractors can provide sealcoating, pothole repair, catch basin installation, and crack repairs.
As the leading pavement maintenance contractor in the GTA, Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. specializes in catch basin repairs, rebuilding, and repaving. We offer an industry-leading seven-year structural warranty. Contact us today for more information on how we can perform catch basin repair for your driveway or parking lot.