What causes asphalt pavement to deteriorate?

Learn about what causes asphalt deterioration and find out tips for extending the lifespan of your pavement.

Asphalt pavement is well-known for its durability, but it can eventually wear down over time. Most asphalt parking lots will last anywhere from 15 to 25 years. Staying proactive with maintenance is a great way to increase the lifespan of your pavement and help slow down the asphalt deterioration process. An experienced contractor can help keep your parking lot well-maintained while following proper asphalt maintenance procedures to protect your investment.

Here is an overview of the biggest factors that can cause asphalt deterioration.

Water Damage

Poor drainage in a parking lot can lead to excess water and eventually result in asphalt damage. Over time, standing water can cause cracks and potholes within the pavement that will get much worse if they aren’t repaired. Hiring an asphalt paving contractor to make repairs and take care of any improper drainage issues is essential to keeping these problems to a minimum.

Exposure to Oil and Chemicals

Another common type of damage to an asphalt parking lot is exposure to oil and other harsh chemicals. The different chemicals in oil and gas can eventually soften the pavement and rapidly increase the asphalt disintegration process. Taking the time to clean up any oil or chemical stains on your parking lot is key to extending the life of your pavement.

Improper Installation

Hiring the right contractor to install your parking lot is a big decision. Unfortunately, not all contractors are equal, as an improperly compacted base due to human error can greatly reduce the lifespan of your pavement and result in a variety of issues. Asking for recommendations and doing your research can help you find an asphalt paving contractor that best meets your needs.

Sunlight

A parking lot can also be damaged due to exposure to sunlight. For example, the asphalt will eventually break down because of oxidation, which can result in cracks that allow water to reach the base of the asphalt. Sealcoating your pavement every 3–5 years is one way to limit any damage from sunlight.

What Are the Most Common Types of Asphalt Deterioration?

Cracks can often appear once the pavement deteriorates over time. Many types of cracking can occur, such as reflection, fatigue, block, and edge cracks. Getting your parking lot repaired as soon as possible can help prevent larger cracks from occurring and causing even more damage.

Potholes are another all-too-common problem in parking lots. Potholes, on the other hand, aren’t just an eyesore; they can also damage vehicles and create tripping hazards.Repairing potholes throughout your parking lot can help reduce your liability risks and improve the curb appeal of your entire property.

Tips for Extending the Life of Your Asphalt Parking Lot

Knowing how to reduce asphalt deterioration is important for saving you money and a lot of stress. Hiring a company specializing in asphalt sealcoating services is a great way to protect your pavement while also giving it a fresh appearance. Scheduling asphalt repairs and maintenance on a regular basis is also important in taking care of any damages before they get much worse.

To Learn More About Limiting Asphalt Deterioration, Contact PLS

Parking Lot Services (PLS) specializes in asphalt paving and sealcoating services for many businesses and commercial properties. Our team can also handle all types of repairs to help limit the asphalt deterioration process. We are also happy to answer questions and provide tips on how to reduce wear and tear on your parking lot.

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