As soon as the new asphalt sets, it begins to deteriorate. You may want your asphalt to look as good as new for as long as possible, however environmental factors along with usage will eventually wear it down. Exposure to hot and cold temperatures, oil, gas, sun oxidation, salt corrosion, water penetration, pressure, and impact damage will contribute to the deterioration of your asphalt.
Asphalt surfaces in Boston, MA, require regular maintenance and repair for maximum usage. Following these 7 tips can increase the lifespan of your asphalt up to 20 to 25 years!
1. Clean and sweep:
Leaves, rocks, dirt, and trash need to be cleaned and swept regularly from your asphalt surface. Any debris left behind can cause blockages for water drainage and lead to pooling. Pooled water will eventually seep through and weaken the asphalt causing cracks and potholes. Regular sweeping helps keep a clean asphalt surface and prevents damage in the long run.
2. Ensure proper drainage and clear sewers:
As previously described, water pooling can damage your asphalt surface. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that any water from rain or snow drains properly and any debris does not block sewers. If water pooling does occur, then it would be prudent to install a drain to rectify the problem. Ensuring good drainage is easier to do as opposed to carrying out costly repairs in the future.
3. Get the weeds:
Weeds are not only a nuisance in your garden or lawn but also for your asphalt surface. Weeds find minute spaces to grow, and eventually, their roots cause cracks to form on the surface. Cracks in the surface enable water to seep through, causing damage to the asphalt. You must weed out the weeds to protect your asphalt surface!
4. Clean oil and gas stains:
Drippings of oil and gas are common on asphalt surfaces, but they are an eyesore, and the chemicals from the oil cause damage to your asphalt. It is vital to ensure the cleaning of these oil and gas drippings as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
5. Repair cracks:
Cracks may form on the asphalt surface due to usage over time. It is best to fill the cracks as soon as you discover them to prevent them from developing into potholes and causing damage to vehicles. Minor and affordable repairs in the early stage will prevent costly, more extensive repairs in the future.
6. Sealcoating:
Professionals recommend sealing coat your asphalt surface regularly, every 2 to 3 years, depending on the usage. Sealcoating is the process of covering the asphalt surface with a liquid sealant that forms an impenetrable barrier once it is dry. Sealcoating is one of the most effective ways to prolong deterioration of your asphalt parking lot.
7. Invest in professional asphalt maintenance services:
Leaving asphalt maintenance work to the professionals is undoubtedly a sound investment for the long run.
The Pavement Group maintains asphalt surfaces across Boston, MA, helping our customers obtain maximum value from their investments. Contact us now for a free quote!