How Does Rain Affect Asphalt?
Water is one of the worst enemies of pavements. Almost every type of paving material will eventually fail if exposed to water for extended durations. However, some materials are especially prone to damage when exposed to water, and asphalt is one of these.
One of the main problems that pavement owners have with asphalt is that it requires a lot of maintenance as the years go by. One of the reasons for this is that rainwater can have a number of undesired effects on the asphalt pavement, resulting in issues such as potholes.
Softening of the Base
One of the main ways that rain can damage asphalt is by washing away the material underneath the asphalt. Depending on certain factors, cracks will develop at some point on an asphalt pavement. When this happens, water will penetrate the asphalt and find its way to the base material. Even if this material isn't washed away, the presence of water softens it.
When the base material becomes soft, its load-bearing capacity and that of the asphalt is diminished. This results in depressions in the pavement that can cause wider cracks in the asphalt or potholes.
Other Effects of Water
Apart from the weakening of the base material, water has other ways that it can compromise asphalt pavements. In winter, a freeze-thaw cycle can occur. This is when temperatures rise to above freezing before dropping down again to below freezing. If there is water on the surface of the asphalt when the temperature is above freezing, it will work its way into a crack.
When the temperatures later drop to below freezing, the water will turn to ice, which means that it will also expand. There is no stopping this water once it starts to expand, and the result can be huge cracks in the pavement.
How to Limit the Effects of Rain and Water
It's impossible to completely eliminate the effects of water on asphalt pavements. However, if you work with a good asphalt paving company, you should be able to reduce these effects. One of the best things you can do for asphalt pavements is ensure there is a proper drainage system. This provides the water with a way of draining away from the pavement.
In addition to this, you should also apply a seal coat on top of the asphalt. This seal will help to prevent the penetration of water into the asphalt.
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