High-Traffic Areas: Paving Strategies To Prevent Damage

Preventing Damage on Asphalt Pavement in High-Traffic Areas

Asphalt is known to be a durable alternative to concrete. Like concrete or any material, asphalt will eventually crack if put under strenuous circumstances. Fortunately, there are some helpful preventative techniques and general maintenance procedures that assist with protecting the asphalt even when it sees high levels of traffic every day.

By designing your pavement to resist high-intensity traffic conditions and making it more durable it can live up to its expected lifespan. Having the asphalt sealed prevents unnecessary wear and tear and helps maintain structural integrity. Having a professional keep up with general maintenance will also have a lasting impact on the full lifespan of your asphalt pavement. By taking preventative measures you will greatly reduce the damage that can occur on a pavement from heavy traffic, and keep your road, driveway, or parking lot sturdy and pristine.

Applying Additional Layers of Asphalt

Dealing with heavy traffic on any asphalt pavement will slowly cause damage over time, but this process can be delayed even further with some unique strategies. High-traffic areas like parking lots, highly active roads, or anywhere that involves heavy trucks will need additional attention and care in order to prevent damage from compounding.

Asphalt is installed in layers including the subbase, base, and surface. One commonly used technique reinforces asphalt pavement by adding additional layers. By adding additional layers of asphalt you slow down fatigue and general wear-and-tear. This will save you money on repair fees, reduce cracking, and make maintenance much easier. Thicker layers can also be poured during the installation of an asphalt pavement. The recommendation for the depth of asphalt will change depending on the type of expected traffic. We recommend up to 6” be poured for an asphalt pavement that is going to experience high traffic on a regular basis.

Keeping Up with Sealcoating

Sealcoating provides a handful of benefits that are especially helpful in high-traffic areas. Sealcoating is a process of applying a thin mixture that includes a binding agency, aggregates, and water. While there are different sealcoating mixtures available on the market, many of them produce a similar effect.

The seal acts as a barrier that protects the asphalt from damaging elements. The damaging effects of vehicle oils, water, and UV rays are all reduced. Because pavements that experience heavy traffic are more susceptible to erosion, sealcoating is highly beneficial. While the top layers of asphalt pavement can be damaged by oils, UV, and natural elements, the bottom layers of asphalt are vulnerable to water erosion. Sealcoating prevents water and moisture from penetrating the top layer and keeps the sublayers from eroding. We recommend having your asphalt pavement inspected every 2-3 years to determine if a new seal is necessary. This preventative measure helps keep the asphalt in great condition and extends its longevity.

Watching for Durability Signs on The Surface

Keeping an eye on the surface of your pavement is a simple and effective way to catch signs of damage early on. Some visible damage that occurs on the surface may be correlated to issues occurring in the sublayers. General fatigue can come in different forms, but the most common signs are edge cracking, surface cracks, and potholes. For parking lots or other areas where larger vehicles may be stored check for any depressions in the asphalt. Asphalt depressions occur when heavy vehicles are stored long-term and can lead to more serious damage over time. All of these signs typically point towards issues with structure and durability, and if caught early on can usually be repaired. If you notice any of these signs or other types of damage, reach out to Tolliver & Curl. We can visit the site and inspect the asphalt to determine the best course of action.

Crack Filling & Repairs

In areas with constant traffic, the pavement is more likely to experience cracks. General fatigue occurs over time, but this process can be sped up by heavier traffic, especially in parking lots where large trucks are carrying heavy loads of cargo. Crack filling is a fast and effective maintenance technique that will relieve stress and cause cracks to spread. The structural integrity of the asphalt is reinforced by filling cracks. Any roads that experience high levels of traffic should be inspected every 12-18 months for signs of cracking. Our maintenance team can fill these cracks properly and help restore the top layer’s strength. Having the sealcoating on your asphalt redone in the appropriate timeframe will also reduce the need for repairs and keep the pavement stronger and looking new.

Removing Motor Oil and Fuel from The Pavement

Vehicle traffic will always leave fuel and engine oil residue behind, and those fuels cause components of the asphalt to break down. Removing oils and fuels maintains the structural integrity of the asphalt pavement and prevents asphalt depression and cracking. This is especially critical when fuels spill or collect in a pool on the surface. The asphalt binder starts to deteriorate when exposed to high volumes of fuel. Over time the fuel can penetrate into the asphalt, which causes the aggregates inside to break apart.

The Importance of Repairing Asphalt Damage Quickly

Asphalt is considered to be a durable pavement material. It’s a flexible material that adapts well to its environment, but still requires some care and maintenance to remain in great condition. All materials eventually break down, especially when constantly exposed to external elements. By stopping damage from spreading, you are helping the pavement remain sturdy. As cracks, potholes, and other signs of wear and tear begin to appear, it’s important to act quickly. These are the more common signs that your asphalt requires maintenance. If these issues are ignored they tend to spread and become worse/ Alligator cracks spread across the top layer of asphalt and are a sign of asphalt fatigue. Tolliver & Curl Paving can generate a quote for repairs or visit the sight to take a closer look. Don’t wait to rapier your pavement, or let too much time pass between sealcoating services.

Commercial Asphalt Pavement in Central Ohio

Tolliver & Curl Paving provides our asphalt services to commercial and residential customers. We can pour roads, parking lots, and driveways, and work with customers for custom projects as well. For over seven decades we have offered our commercial asphalt paving services, and continue to find pride in the work we do in Central Ohio. Contact our offices to learn more about what services we can provide for you, or get an estimate for your next project!