As the temperature continues to rise in the coming months, fruit-bearing trees will ripen, and bees will buzz happily from flower to flower. But how will the heat affect your asphalt surfaces, such as the driveway in front of your home? For this man-made surface, the higher temperatures are more of a risk than a blessing. Here are a few ways heat influences asphalt paving, and what you can do to protect it.

How Does Heat Affect Asphalt?

As the sun beats down on your driveway, the dark black surface will absorb the infrared light, causing the asphalt to get hotter. In turn, this will raise the temperature of the air around your asphalt surface, making it even harder for the pavement to cool down. The heat will soften the cement binder holding the asphalt together, making it less viscous and easier to damage.

Between the contrast of the cool evening and hot afternoons, your asphalt will expand and contract, sometimes leading to cracks in the surface. When it rains, water will seep into these divides, pooling beneath the asphalt and eroding the underlayment. Once the liquid evaporates, a pocket of air will exist between the sub-surface and the asphalt. If you drive over this hollow section, the top could collapse, resulting in a pothole.

How Can I Protect My Asphalt During the Summer?

To prevent this cycle of damage, it’s important to call a contractor at the first sign of cracks. That way, they can fill the minor damage before water can seep in and contribute to pothole formation. You can also add an extra layer of defense by sealing your asphalt surfaces every few years, which will prevent water absorption.

On really hot days, keep heavy loads and vehicles off of your driveway—park on the street or in your garage instead. The weight of your car can easily damage hot asphalt, leaving potholes or even divots in the soft top layer.

If you’re looking for an asphalt paving contractor to protect your driveway this summer, reach out to Paveco of Kalispell, MT. They have over 20 years of experience providing service to residents throughout Flathead Valley. Whether you are planning a new paving project or need repairs for your current asphalt surfaces, they have the tools and skills to get the job done right the first time. To learn more about their skills or request a free estimate, call (406) 752-0051.