Asphalt maintenance is an ongoing job. Reliable Contracting is here to help.
Asphalt is the most affordable and sustainable paving material in the world, and with proper maintenance, it can last for many decades, if not centuries. Although asphalt is so long-lasting, it is truly diligent, professional maintenance that keeps it in good shape. Asphalt begins to wear out almost immediately because of the sun’s UV rays, traffic loads, and water damage. These phenomena are the most common asphalt problems that contractors like Reliable Contracting must face to keep safe transportation alive.
Asphalt Cracks
Asphalt cracks can form on the road due to heavy traffic loads, imperfections in the base, moisture damage, temperature fluctuations, and old age. Asphalt cracks come in different forms, such as alligator, longitudinal, transverse, and block cracks. Professionals like Reliable Contracting can fill these cracks and address any more serious issues related to them.
Potholes
Potholes typically begin as asphalt cracks and get larger with time, especially with water damage and the freeze-thaw cycle. If the pothole forms directly below the asphalt’s surface, that surface can eventually break down, revealing the pothole underneath.
Asphalt patching can typically fix potholes, but widespread damage will likely require replacing the entire top layer.
Depressions and Ruts
Asphalt pavement can form depressions and ruts over time due to pressure from rainwater and heavy traffic. Asphalt cracks can give way to weakened asphalt due to rainwater getting beneath the surface, causing depressions in the surface. The depressions in the asphalt caused by constant heavy traffic along the same route are called ruts. Contractors can fix these isolated problems without redoing the entire surface.
Raveling
Bitumen, a byproduct of crude oil, is the sticky black substance that hardens and holds the aggregates, like gravel and sand, together in asphalt. When bitumen breaks down, it can lead to raveling, loose gravel coming away from the pavement. Heavy traffic, heavy rain, and other wear and tear can cause this issue, but of course, it is fixable.
Sealcoating Failure
Asphalt sealcoating needs to be completed with no room for missed spots. Sealcoating can also deteriorate over time, flaking off and revealing the asphalt top layer. Regular, professional sealcoating will keep the pavement free from this problem and the other ones for longer.
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’s, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.