Asphalt is, perhaps, the most common substance used in parking lots and playgrounds. Though fresh asphalt has a rich color and tightly compacted surface, these qualities will not last forever. Like any surface, asphalt is prone to problems and benefits from proper and regular maintenance. Some problems include graying of the surface, raveling, developing linear cracks, and allowing vegetation growth. The rich dark color of asphalt begins to turn gray and lighten because of water, petroleum products, ultraviolet rays, and traffic. Once the asphalt turns gray, it is more likely to crack, dry out, and become more brittle.
Raveling is the term for the asphalt aggregate, which is made of sand and stone particles, becoming loose and dislodging. If the pavement is raveled, it looks rough and becomes thinner; as a result of this, more wear is evident on shoes, plows, and vehicle tires. Asphalt can develop cracks that are linear (straight), are in a spider web, or resemble the rippled back of an alligator. When cracks are not properly sealed, they will expand and cause damage to the pavement. Vegetation can grow in the unfilled cracks, thereby causing more cracks as the vegetation expands. However, these problems can be avoided for the most part with proper maintenance.
Typically, paving contractors are selected to complete the job. However, not all contractors provide regular maintenance after the job is finished. columbus paving contractors like Hills Blacktop not only install but maintain blacktop. This company uses Seal Master products to fill cracks, patch areas, and overlay asphalt. Filling in the cracks in asphalt is one of the best ways to prevent costly repairs. Because the pavement is in Ohio, there are freezing and thawing cycles to account for. If water freezes in the cracks, it will expand and cause a wider crack than the original.
The best way to patch a deteriorating area is to cut out the damaged asphalt and patch the resulting hole. To overlay, a new layer of asphalt is placed over the existing asphalt to strengthen the paved area. When choosing columbus paving contractors, consider the proposed method of repair the contractor uses, the quantity of area to be repaired, and how the asphalt will be affected by the weather. Not all contractors will be specific about their methods or product. It is in the customer’s interest to ask questions for the best result.
