Asphalt has been a staple in society for hundreds of years. It is the most commonly used road material in the world and is often used as the asphalt base in building foundations. Its durability and flexibility make it an ideal choice for pavement and its use is widespread all over the world. With this versatility in mind, asphalt contractors often find themselves faced with challenges. Customers who are looking to remodel their property may not be aware of the challenges involved in using asphalt, or even how to properly install it. By providing this brief overview, the reader will have a better understanding of what can go wrong when using asphalt.
The first and most important challenge to address is that the asphalt surface can crack when it is subjected to temperatures above 160 degrees Fahrenheit. When asphalt is exposed to heat, it becomes brittle and can start to crack and separate from the asphalt aggregate underneath it. The asphalt cracks are caused by heat, which causes the asphalt to expand and contract and in some cases, it can cause permanent damage to the asphalt. One of the biggest challenges that asphalt contractors face is dealing with this type of crack and how to remove it. Since the cracks are caused by heat, it will take more time and more effort to repair the crack than it would if it were caused by a storm or other type of weather condition. Additionally, because it takes longer to repair this type of crack, it will end up costing you a little bit extra money. So even though it may seem like a small amount for a new driveway, it can add up to significant cost.
If a crack does appear on your asphalt surfaces, you may want to call a contractor right away. Cracks are an indicator that there may be some structural damage beneath the asphalt. If you leave these cracks alone, they will get bigger and worse over time. Cracks can also form anywhere else on your surface as well, such as on road signs or pavement markings. Once the crack appears, it is important to remove it and fix it in the proper manner. You do not want to scrape or sand it down because doing so will cause it to expand and become bigger in size. In order to prevent damage, you should consult with your contractor about the best course of action that will ensure that the crack is fixed in the safest manner possible.
