Even the best asphalt deteriorates over time. Here’s how.
Asphalt makes up our nation’s roads, parking lots, driveways, and many nature and bike trails. It is the humble pavement that helps us get to the grocery store, friends’ homes, school, etc., and back home again. All of these asphalt roads need continuous maintenance or repaving. You might have noticed when you ride over some particularly bumpy roads. Here’s how asphalt breaks down over time, and what Reliable Contracting does to keep Maryland’s roads in great shape.
Asphalt Breaks Down Naturally
Asphalt begins to break down as soon as it goes into place. The elements, such as sunlight and oxygen, create a chemical reaction in the asphalt that minutely changes it over time into the crumbly mess of old roads if not maintained. However, understanding the causes and the solutions for asphalt deterioration will help with proactive upkeep.
What Causes Asphalt Deterioration?
Oxidation
Like silver, asphalt oxidates, and its top layer begins to become brittle. Oxygen creates a chemical reaction with asphalt, weakening its top layer and its load-bearing capacity. Cracks will form on the surface. Different factors, such as temperature, can affect the rate of asphalt oxidation.
UV Light
Likewise, sunlight will cause asphalt to become brittle over time and cause it to crack and crumble. Asphalt is made of a hardened sticky substance called bitumen, which holds many bits of gravel together. Sunlight is another cause of bitumen disintegration.
Water
Rain, sleet, and hail can wear down asphalt over time, but the real damage water does is underneath the surface. Once cracks form, water will seep through them and enlarge them through the freeze-thaw cycle.
Heavy Traffic
As asphalt becomes more brittle over time, heavy traffic will break the pavement down further. You might see ruts in the road where many tires have rolled along, or certain crack patterns due to such wear and tear.
Exposure to Chemicals
Gasoline, oil, and rock salt are a few chemicals that could damage asphalt, especially if it is not sealed. Like sunlight and oxygen, these harsh chemicals can deteriorate asphalt quickly.
Improper Construction
Improper construction is another reason for asphalt to break down quickly. If the pavement layers are not thick enough, the pavement will not be able to bear the traffic weight without cracking. Thankfully, Reliable Contracting can help cities build their roads right every time.
ABOUT RELIABLE CONTRACTING
Reliable is dedicated to delivering quality products, displaying professionalism within the firm, seeking new opportunities for expansion and profitability, and providing an environment for individual success. If you have a commercial or residential construction project that you need taken care of, please contact Anne Arundel County’s largest site-work contractor today by calling 410-987-0313 or visiting our website. You can also follow Reliable Contracting on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter!
Reliable Contracting Company serves the following and surrounding counties: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.