7 Essentials For Your Fall Asphalt Maintenance Checklist

Key Takeaways:

1. Asphalt is a long-lasting, recyclable material made from a mixture of gravel, sand, and bitumen. It’s used for road and driveway construction.
2. Visual inspection, sweeping, applying sealant, and filling any cracks should all be included in your asphalt maintenance checklist.
3. Cracks and potholes, edge damage, and discoloration are early signs of wear and tear and must be addressed immediately.
4. Even if you don’t think your asphalt needs any work, it’s best to have a professional inspect it.

As the weather changes, it’s important to take a moment to assess the state of our asphalt driveways & parking lots. If you’re welcoming winter in the next few months, it’s best to perform some much-needed maintenance. Doing so will help to prevent damage from winter weather and keep your pavement looking its best. So, what should you include on your fall asphalt maintenance checklist?

This blog post will discuss all the basics you need to know!

Asphalt: An Overview!

Have you ever wondered what that black, sticky substance is that covers the roads and driveways? That’s asphalt! Asphalt is made from a mixture of gravel, sand, and bitumen, which is then heated and compressed to produce a strong, solid surface.

America’s most recycled product is asphalt! Not paper, plastics, or cardboard. Some studies show that our industry recycles asphalt pavement at a rate of more than 99%. Recycling this material saves American taxpayers over $300 million each year!

Asphalt is commonly used for road construction because it is durable and weatherproof. It can also withstand heavy traffic without showing signs of wear and tear. In addition, asphalt is relatively easy and inexpensive to install. So, the next time you’re driving down the street or pulling into your driveway, take a moment to appreciate the hardworking asphalt that makes it possible!

Your Asphalt Maintenance Checklist

1. Visual Inspection

First, visually inspect the current condition of the asphalt. Are there any cracks or holes? If so, you’ll want to fill them in with an asphalt patching compound. This will help prevent further damage & keep water from seeping into the surface.

Check the edges of your asphalt for signs of wear and tear. If you see any crumbling or cracking, you may need to have the edges repaired or replaced.

2. Sweep Away Dirt & Debris

Give your asphalt a good cleaning regularly. Sweep away any dirt or debris. Then use a hose to remove any remaining dirt or grime. Be sure to let the surface dry completely before applying a fresh coat of sealant.

3. Inspect the Drainage

Make sure your asphalt has proper drainage. If water is pooling on the surface, it could lead to serious damage. Inspect your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are clearing water away from your asphalt. You may need to make adjustments to improve drainage. Poor drainage can cause your pavement to crack and erode.

4. Fill In Cracks and Holes

Asphalt tends to crack and hole over time. This is especially true in areas with a lot of traffic or heavy vehicles. Inspect your asphalt for cracks or holes, then fill them with the appropriate repair product.

5. Apply a Fresh Coat of Sealant

A sealant protects asphalt from weather damage and makes it look fresh and new. If it’s been a few years since you last applied sealant, now is a good time to do it.

6. Remove Any Stains

Stains can make your asphalt look unsightly. You can remove most stains with a power washer or by scrubbing with a stiff brush and some detergent.

7. Inspect the Edges

The edges of your asphalt are vulnerable to weather, traffic, and lawn care equipment damage. Inspect them for any wear or damage and make repairs as necessary.

With these tips, you can keep your asphalt looking great all year!

How to Prevent Future Asphalt Problems?

• Asphalt sealant is a barrier between your pavement and the elements, protecting it from UV damage, water damage, and oil leaks.
• Lawn care equipment can damage your asphalt if it’s not used properly. Be especially careful with power washers; if used with high pressure, they can strip away the top layer of asphalt.
• Asphalt will show signs of wear & tear over time. Look out for cracks, potholes, and other damage so you can repair it before it gets worse.
• Having your asphalt inspected by a professional every few years is a good idea. They can identify any problems and recommend the best course of action.

Some Early Signs

If your driveway or parking lot shows signs of wear and tear, it may be time to consult a professional. But how to tell if the problem is serious enough to warrant repairs? Here are a few key indicators that your asphalt may need some attention:

1. Cracks and Potholes

The most obvious sign that your asphalt needs repair is the presence of cracks or potholes. These can be caused by weather damage, vehicle traffic, and overgrown tree roots. If left unaddressed, cracks and potholes will only worsen, eventually leading to major damage.

2. Edge Damage

Another common issue is edge damage when the edges of your asphalt start to crumble or chip away. This can be caused by improper installation, inefficient drainage, or age and wear. Edge damage can lead to further deterioration of your asphalt, so it’s important to address it as soon as possible.

3. Discoloration

If your asphalt is starting to look dull or faded, it could be a sign that the surface is deteriorating. This usually happens when the material becomes dry and brittle, making it more susceptible to sun, wind, and rain damage. If you notice discoloration, it’s best to have a professional take a look as soon as possible.

While these are all common indicators that your asphalt may need some attention, keep in mind that only a trained professional will be able to give you a definitive answer. If you have any concerns about the condition of your driveway or parking lot, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local contractor for assistance.

Conclusion

Your parking lot and driveway are one of the first things customers or guests see when they visit you. If it’s cracked, faded, and stained, it’s not sending the right message. But you don’t have to accept the wear and tear that comes with owning a property. You can fight back against the damage caused by the sun, rain, snow, and ice with 309 Paving Services’ asphalt maintenance services.

Read: Protect your customers from potholes.

Our coatings create a barrier against the elements, helping your parking lot to stay in great condition for years to come. If you want to keep your parking lot, driveway, or roads looking their best, call 309 Paving Services in Pekin today. Get a free quote for our asphalt maintenance services!

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