Asphalt is a durable, cost-effective material for paving driveways, roads, parking lots and sporting surfaces. However, if the initial installation is not done correctly, it leads to many expensive problems. One of the most critical factors is starting with a stable, well-compacted base. The ground needs to be graded appropriately, with a slight slope to allow for water runoff. Any soft spots or erosion issues must be fixed first. The asphalt should then be installed at the right thickness for the expected usage – thicker for high-traffic roads and thinner for footpaths or residential driveways.
Preventing cracks and potholes
Even with proper installation, asphalt surfaces develop cracks and potholes from exposure to the elements, ground settling, and wear and tear. Water is the enemy of asphalt – it seeps into small cracks, erodes the base, and causes potholes to form, especially in freeze-thaw cycles. Regularly inspecting asphalt for cracks and sealing them promptly prevent water infiltration and slow deterioration. DIY crack-filling products are available for bitumen driveways and smaller asphalt surfaces. Larger cracks or damage on roads may require professional hot rubberized crack filling or patching.
Considerations for sporting surfaces
Asphalt driveways sporting surfaces like tennis courts, basketball courts and running tracks have unique maintenance needs. Asphalt courts should have a reliable drainage system around the perimeter to prevent water pooling. Court surfaces should be sealed and painted appropriate to the sport and re-coated every few years. Unpainted courts may need more frequent sealing. Any cracks or low spots affecting gameplay or pose tripping hazards should be promptly repaired. Leaves, debris and puddles should be regularly removed.
Planning for heavy usage
High-traffic roadways, industrial parking lots, and other areas with heavy vehicle usage take a beating. These asphalt surfaces may need to be thicker, with a more substantial base, and reinforced with rebar or geotextile fabric. They will likely need more frequent resealing services and repairs. Working with an asphalt contractor experienced in heavy-duty applications is essential, who assesses the expected usage and makes appropriate installation and maintenance recommendations. Spending more upfront on a heavy-duty asphalt installation avoids repetitive repair costs later. Suppose you have an existing asphalt surface that was not initially built for heavy traffic but is now seeing increased usage. In that case, it’s worth having a professional evaluation on whether it needs to be upgraded or replaced.
Protecting asphalt from chemical damage
If left sitting, chemical spills from vehicles like oil, gas, antifreeze, or harsh solvents degrade and stain unsealed asphalt surfaces. Any spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible using absorbent materials. Sealed asphalt will be more resistant to chemical staining and erosion. In commercial or industrial settings where frequent spills occur, frequent drain systems and oil/water separators must be installed to contain spillage. Businesses should also have a regular asphalt cleaning and maintenance plan to handle chemical damage. Homeowners should avoid repeatedly parking leaking vehicles on asphalt driveways and clean up any spills promptly.
With proper installation, periodic sealing, and prompt repairs of any damage, an asphalt surface remains serviceable for 20+ years. However, this relies on staying on top of regular preventative maintenance. Asphalt should be kept clean of debris, chemicals, and pudding water. Any cracks, potholes or deterioration should be fixed quickly, with the cause identified and rectified. Overhanging trees should be trimmed to reduce organic debris and sap drips on the surface. A schedule of seal coating and inspecting for any damages or emerging drainage issues catch problems before they expand.
