Why is My Asphalt Deteriorating?

Have you taken a close look at your asphalt pavement lately? If it is beginning to show signs of deterioration, there is usually a good reason why. Fortunately, asphalt is a material that is easy to work with and repair. So if your asphalt lot has seen better days, a quick makeover is no problem.

Continue reading to learn your options for asphalt repair, as well as, some common reasons why asphalt deteriorates.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Learning what causes asphalt to deteriorate is important so that you can better protect your newly-restored pavement and increase its lifespan. Although some things cannot be controlled or avoided, there are many others that can. Here are the primary reasons why asphalt pavement will breakdown:

Poor Quality Installation

The most common reason why a relatively new asphalt paved surface begins to deteriorate is due to poor installation. Inexperienced or unethical contractors may render a poor quality job as a result of cutting corners, old equipment, a lack of resources, poor quality materials, and shoddy workmanship. For this reason, the best decision you can make for your premises is hiring an experienced and licensed Indianapolis asphalt paving company that can provide professional repairs and services that stand the test of time. When asphalt is laid properly, it can last decades.

Poor Water Drainage

Another reason why asphalt will begin to corrode sooner than it should is poor water drainage. This is usually a result of poor quality work, as mentioned above. When a lot cannot sufficiently drain standing water from its surface, the water will penetrate the asphalt and cause the liquid asphalt binder to lose its resistance to water, which can lead to compaction problems and more. Once colder temperatures come around, the freeze-thaw cycles will begin, causing the water to expand cracks and produce pot holes.

Foot and Vehicle Traffic

If your lot experiences a lot of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, it is more likely to show signs of deterioration soon than a vacant lot would. The impact and weight of cars, trucks, vans, and more, will cause the pavement surface to form cracks that will eventually expand and crumble overtime. Stains from chemicals, grease, and dirt will also impact asphalt. Discoloration and fading may occur from sunlight exposure, which can dry out liquid binders, allowing for water penetration.

Natural Elements

As mentioned, some things are out of your control, for the most part. Overtime, natural elements like wind, rain, snow, and ice, will cause pavement to deteriorate. This is what we call “natural wear and tear.” And although these elements are not controllable, you can protect your asphalt and extend its life with a quality sealcoat. Just be sure it is applied by a licensed and insured asphalt paver.

Who to Call For Experienced Asphalt Paving

ACI Asphalt Concrete Inc. 317-549-1833

ACI Asphalt Concrete 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional asphalt paving and seal coating in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our team of licensed and insured pavers provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. We serve all of Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Request a free estimate, today.