The summer sunshine is great for getting a tan, growing plants, and powering up solar panels. One thing it's not kind to is your business's commercial parking lot. The sunshine is known to take a toll on asphalt pavement and longer days, and the intensified sunrays can accelerate asphalt damage. In this blog from the asphalt experts at Doctor Asphalt, we'll be looking at how the damage occurs and what you need to do about it.
Why Summer Sun Accelerates Asphalt Pavement Problems
How exactly does the sunshine cause and escalate parking lot and pavement issues? The summer sun accelerates asphalt pavement problems due to the combination of intense heat and UV radiation - together, they degrade the asphalt binder or the material that holds the aggregate together. UV rays also cause oxidation, which dries out the binder and makes it brittle, while the heat softens the surface. When this happens, it reduces the pavement's ability to withstand traffic loads and ultimately results in wear and potential damage.
What Problems Does this Cause?
The summer heat and sun's intensified UV rays lead to common pavement issues such as:
- cracking
- raveling
- rutting
- fading
As the weather heats and cools nearly every day for an extended period of time, the repeated cycle of thermal expansion and stress during the hot summer months speeds up overall deterioration. This accelerates usual wear and tear, turning minor issues into major damage.
Related: Understanding the Asphalt Lifecycle and When to Sealcoat
What to Do to Prevent Asphalt Damage
The best way to prevent asphalt damage from the summer heat and sun is routine maintenance to keep your pavement in the best shape possible, to lessen the impact. Routine maintenance, such as crack filling and seal coating, can make a significant difference in the amount of deterioration that will occur during different seasons throughout the year. Additionally, addressing problems that require more extensive repairs, such as patching, pothole repairs, or mill and overlay, can prevent issues from worsening and leading to more costly interventions.
Although it's impossible to prevent any wear and tear or damage to pavement, you can help ensure that it is well preserved and capable of withstanding usage, traffic and the elements.
Learn more about: The Benefits of Regular Asphalt Maintenance for Commercial Properties
Get Expert Asphalt Maintenance Services You Can Trust
Understanding how the summer sun affects asphalt is key to keeping it in good shape. Regular inspections, seal coating, and quick repairs can really help reduce the damage from UV rays and heat. By staying on top of these things, property owners and managers can keep their asphalt looking great and safe all summer long. Our team at Doctor Asphalt will ensure your pavement is properly cared for, which means you'll save time and money on major repairs later on.
If you're located in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Texas, or operate nationwide, contact us today to schedule your free estimate.
Doctor Asphalt delivers high-quality asphalt paving and maintenance solutions designed for the unique demands of the local climate. With a strong reputation for reliability and expertise, we provide premium services that enhance the safety and longevity of commercial and residential properties. Serving Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Texas, with nationwide capabilities for multi-property clients, we ensure durable, professional results that keep your pavement in top condition.
