Roads last a long time; how often do they need resurfacing?
Roads have been around for decades, if not centuries. The same roads have been around for many years, and you might not remember when the last time was that your street was repaved. Even so, you might also have noticed cracks and potholes in your neighborhood getting larger and larger. Perhaps you’re considering how to budget for commercial paving or public road maintenance. How often should roads be resurfaced, anyway?
How Often Should Roads Be Resurfaced?
Asphalt resurfacing is the milling and repaving of the top asphalt layer. When the road’s sublayers are in good condition, but the surface has cracks and potholes, you can afford to remove just that top layer and replace it. In fact, doing so will save you a lot of money compared to waiting until you have to repair the entire road from the foundation up. With that being said, contractors usually resurface roads every 10-15 years. However, that is just a guideline. Each case is different, and the ideal asphalt resurfacing frequency depends on the conditions listed below.
Conditions That Affect Road Lifespans
Traffic
The more traffic a road gets, the faster it will wear out. Roads are designed according to the expected amount of traffic. For example, highways have thicker constructions than narrow side roads or residential driveways. Even so, the weight of cars, trucks, bicycles, motorcycles, and more take their toll.
Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures can also affect a road’s lifespan. Asphalt automatically starts oxidizing when it is in direct sunlight. Even on cloudy days, UV rays shine on the roads and very minimally begin to break down the top layer. Extreme heat can soften and warp roads and extreme cold can cause asphalt to become brittle.
Rainfall
Water is one of the biggest threats to asphalt roads. Heavy rainfall in summer and the freeze-thaw cycle in winter can cause asphalt to crack and form gnarly pot holes. If the road floods, the water can ultimately wash the road away.
The Quality of the Pavement Installation
Asphalt pavement also lasts longer or shorter depending on how well it was installed. If you need to hire a reliable asphalt contractor in Maryland, call Reliable Contracting!
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 and areas: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.