It has been hot all summer, and you may be wondering how that is affecting your asphalt. Since we at A&M Asphalt Paving offer asphalt paving in Davidsonville, MD, we are happy to explain.
Oxidation
Asphalt wear and tear after, say, 20 or 30 years is normal, but the sun’s UV rays accelerate the deterioration by igniting chemical reactions. Namely, lighter and heavier oils mix, and the amount of binding oils in the asphalt decreases. In the big picture, this chemical reaction (oxidation) makes asphalt less elastic and more vulnerable to cracks and even construction failure.
- The asphalt’s sturdiness and integrity decrease.
- The color of asphalt fades to black-gray.
- On roads and in parking lots, oxidation affects pavement markings, too.
- The more sun radiation there is, the more severe the oxidation.
- Serious oxidation can result in huge cracks and potholes and asphalt failure.
Cracking
Cracks can occur from oxidation as mentioned above. They can also occur from severely hot days and cooler nights. During this process, the asphalt expands during the day and contracts during the night. This repeated expansion and contraction may result in cracks, even with newer, improperly installed asphalt (or asphalt that is not maintained regularly). Cracks can also result in water issues and should be fixed as soon as possible.
Raveling
Raveling, or asphalt degradation, occurs when too much moisture, including water, gets into cracks and soil. The water mixes with the asphalt and the soil, which disrupts asphalt cohesion. The more cracks, the more damage there is. (Other water-related issues include settling, rutting, and base failure.)
Tracking
Asphalt can get really hot, which may cause it to soften. Small parts of asphalt may then stick to tires or people’s shoes instead of being where they belong on driveways, pavement, or roads.
Assistance With Asphalt Paving in Davidsonville, MD
The heat and summer weather can be damaging. That’s why it’s important to check on your asphalt after weeks of heat and humidity. Get a free estimate for asphalt paving in Davidsonville, MD today, and contact A&M Asphalt Paving.