Asphalt makes driveways and parking lots smoother, more attractive and quieter. If you are planning on having asphalt paving installed soon or already have it, you will appreciate the cost-saving benefits that it gives you over time if you maintain it. Proper maintenance maximizes its longevity. When asphalt pavement is not maintained, it can break down enough that it may need to be replaced. These three important tips will help you keep your asphalt in optimal condition.
- Clean the asphalt regularly. As a rule, it is good to clean your asphalt at least once each month. If you have a business with a busy parking lot, you may want to at least sweep the lot each week. Cars bring gravel and other debris into your lot. If gravel is not cleaned away, it can cause damage over time. Leaves and other debris can leave stains. Fuel and oil leaks can also cause damage and can leave slick spots that become slipping hazards. Additionally, oil and fuel can cause deterioration of the asphalt if it is not cleaned regularly. A professional can tell you how often you should wash your asphalt. To wash it, you should use an asphalt-safe cleaning solution that removes grease, chemicals and dirt.
- Fix cracks and potholes quickly. With the weather of South Florida, cracks and potholes are inevitable in any type of parking lot. Never try to fill cracks or potholes with store-bought sealers, concrete or putty. Licensed and insured asphalt contractors can properly repair most cracks and holes. However, holes and cracks that are ignored for months will only grow. At some point, they will become deep and wide enough that milling and resurfacing may be needed. The key idea to remember is that prompt attention prevents costly restoration projects.
- Apply a sealcoat as needed. Keep in mind that a sealcoat is different from an overlay, which is a patching process for sizeable cracks and potholes. Sealcoating is the process of adding a durable and waterproof layer to the top of the asphalt. However, it does more than just repel moisture, fuel and oil. It helps protect the asphalt pavement from UV rays. Since prolonged sun exposure speeds up damage to asphalt, this is a big benefit in sunny Southern Florida. A sealcoat covers some minor surface damage when it is applied. As a rule, most professionals recommend that you replace the sealcoat every three to five years. The frequency of replacement depends on the asphalt’s traffic volume, location and several other factors.
If you had a sealcoat applied in the past and are wondering if you need a new one now, a professional can assess the asphalt and tell you. After your asphalt paving has a new sealcoat, it will also have a fresher appearance. Sealcoating is a good way to minimize damages and reduce the cost of your long-term investment whether you have a small driveway or a massive parking lot.
Southern Asphalt Engineering Helps You Maintain Your Asphalt
SAE has been in business for more than 20 years. Jose Franco started the company as a way to provide Miami-Dade County and Broward County with cost-effective asphalt solutions. SAE is a fully insured and licensed engineering firm that handles planning, preparation, installation, repair and maintenance of asphalt. In addition to asphalt paving services, the company provides concrete curbing and brick paving services. When you hire SAE for any scale of asphalt project, you have the assurance that the contractors know and comply with local, state and federal regulations. To learn more about maintaining your asphalt or for a free estimate on SAE’s paving services, please call or submit an inquiry form online.
