Facts and Fun: Pavement Edition

Posted on: 2 July 2020

Do you plan to get an asphalt driveway installed on your property? If so, you likely made your decision because you know that asphalt is a durable driveway material that is versatile and can add value to properties as well as improve aesthetics. Perhaps this is a replacement driveway for your last residential asphalt paving job you had done. Either way, you need to know how to properly care for your new driveway. An important concept of caring for your driveway involves knowing the things that can shorten its lifespan or cause damage. The following points will help you identify some things that can ruin asphalt driveways.

Fluids from Vehicles

The fluid in vehicles can cause damage to asphalt, which has a permeable surface. Oil is one of the worse fluids that you can allow to come into contact with your new driveway. Ensure that you do not park vehicles with fluid leaks in your driveway. The liquids can cause the asphalt material the break down if they penetrate through the material.

Salt

If you live in an area that has harsh winters, salt may be a common element used to melt ice. Some companies, like Bid Rite Paving, know that salt can cause expansion issues to asphalt material and eventually damage driveways. You can use sand as a substitute for salt and achieve similar results. 

Heavy Vehicles

You likely think that a driveway is equipped to handle any type of vehicle. This is a false assumption. Asphalt driveways should be strong enough to accommodate passenger cars and trucks. However, if you have heavy duty trucks on your property, it is wise to not allow them to be parked on the driveway. These types of vehicles can cause cracks or breaks in asphalt. 

Snow Tires

Living in an area that is prone to ice and snow might result in you using specialty tires during the winter months. Some of these tires have micro studs in them to reduce the chances of skidding in icy weather, The studs can puncture through asphalt and create entry points for precipitation, which can damage the asphalt and lead to cracks and other defects. A paving contractor is a good resource to use to learn additional things that can damage asphalt. They can also explain the importance of getting prompt repairs if you notice asphalt damages.

There are other maintenance requirements that can extend the lifespan of your asphalt driveway such as seal coating. By keeping a professional involved with the caretaking of your asphalt driveway, you can reduce the chances of damages and ensure prompt repairs if you incur damages.