What Causes Asphalt Pavement Cracks and How Can You Avoid Them?

Over time, asphalt pavement can start to show signs of wear and tear in the form of cracks, drainage issues, and even accumulated oil stains. Asphalt is constantly exposed to a myriad of external elements that can accelerate its deterioration and render it unsafe. Temperature fluctuations, water accumulation, fatigue, overexposure to the sun, and even just age are among the top asphalt pavement crack causes in Toronto.

How to Prevent Asphalt Pavement Cracks

Asphalt pavement cracks may be inevitable, but they’re also preventable with proper care and maintenance. You can extend the overall functionality and lifecycle of your asphalt pavement by following a few simple tips and tricks that will also lower your operational and repair costs. 

Clean Up Oil and Chemical Spills

Commercial asphalt pavements that accommodate high traffic levels are extremely susceptible to fuel and chemical leaks from vehicles. Oil spills from vehicles that are left to dry will eventually become dark patches or stains that are difficult to remove. The chemicals in these substances can penetrate the surface of your asphalt pavement and breakdown the binding agents in the aggregate, causing it to weaken and eventually break apart. 

The longer you leave oil and chemical spills from vehicles unattended, the harder they are to remove. It’s best to clean up oil and chemical spills as soon as they happen, if possible, to prevent staining. Before they dry, use an environmentally friendly and mild degreasing agent to clean up the oil and chemical spill. 

Sealcoat Your Asphalt Pavement Regularly

Most asphalt crack issues can be prevented with proper maintenance. Sealcoating your asphalt pavement every two to three years can help protect it against external elements that damage it. Moreover, it also extends the lifespan of your asphalt pavement by about 20 to 30 years depending on usage, the types of vehicles on your property, and traffic volume. 

Keep Your Asphalt Pavement Clean

Your asphalt pavement should be kept clean and tidy at all times. Perform weekly or bi-weekly scheduled cleanup sessions to remove litter and organic materials from your property such as sticks, large stones, and grass clippings that can damage your asphalt. Keeping your asphalt pavement clean at all times also presents a more pleasant and welcoming atmosphere to anyone who uses your commercial property. 

Repair Cracks

Asphalt cracks are often the result of long-term pavement issues that you either ignored or didn’t notice. It’s important to repair asphalt cracks immediately so they don’t spread throughout your property. Over time, water and debris will infiltrate the surface of the cracks and cause further internal damages. In some cases, they can even have a tunneling effect that causes even minor cracks to develop into potholes. 

Cracks aren’t just an eyesore on your property, they’re also a major liability that can lead to injuries and vehicular damage. 

Make Sure You Have Proper Drainage

If you notice minor or substantial water accumulation in the form of puddles throughout your parking lot, then this is clear sign that your drainage system is malfunctioning. Standing water erodes the binding agents in your asphalt pavement and causes it to deteriorate faster. Moreover, you’ll notice more dips and depressions throughout the property as water continues to accumulate in certain areas. 

Check your drainage system or catch basin for clogs or other damages to prevent water backlog from destroying your asphalt pavement. 

Hire Professional Asphalt Pavement Services in Toronto

Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. has been one of the leading asphalt pavement service providers in Toronto and the GTA for over 25 years. We provide professional asphalt installation, maintenance, and repair services that ensure the longevity and functionality of your pavement. Contact us today to learn more or to get a quote!