Unmistakable Signs of Progressive Damage to Your Asphalt Driveway
Asphalt remains a relevant paving material for commercial and residential premises alike due to its high durability and affordability. Nonetheless, although it may happen at a slower rate, asphalt will eventually succumb to physical damage. The prolonged exposure to Australia's harsh climatic conditions compounded with the weight loads it has to bear translates into structural issues occurring that would need immediate attention.
However, since asphalt driveways are known for longevity, some individuals may neglect routine inspections since they are not keeping their driveway maintenance as a top priority. Thus, it is critical to spot the warning symptoms and have them remedied before replacement becomes the mandatory action to take. So what are the unmistakable signs of progressive damage to your asphalt driveway?
Clusters of cracks grouping on the surface of the driveway
Cracks are an inevitable form of damage. The best way to deal with them is to attend to each crack as it starts to form, which prevents it from spreading. When cracks are left to extend unhampered, they will begin to form clusters that look quite similar to spider webs. These clusters will then create meld into group formations, which make your asphalt driveway start to look akin to reptilian skin.
By the time that the clusters have become this extensive, it would be imperative to seek professional driveway resurfacing, as it is only a matter of time before the integrity of your asphalt driveway is nonexistent. Homeowners are advised to be wary of signs of hairline fissures that look seemingly harmless as these are the first hint of your asphalt becoming vulnerable to cracks.
Buckling on the surface of the asphalt driveway
Another sure sign of a poorly maintained asphalt driveway is when the surface begins to buckle. An assumption some individuals make about buckling is that the pressure of accommodating heavy weight loads is what causes it. Although this stress can accelerate the extent of the buckling, the main cause is inclement weather. During the winter, snow can seep under your asphalt driveway and freeze. This expansion will cause shifting of the driveway. When the weather starts to warm up, the ice thaws, which subsequently causes contraction.
Prolonged freeze and thaw cycles eventually lead to the driveway to lose its stability. Couple this with continually driving on the asphalt even when it is going through these structural changes will lead to severe buckling. During the winter months, it is critical to carry out driveway maintenance in the form of sealing to prevent this ice from breaching your asphalt's surface.
Share