Without the proper maintenance and care, UV rays can take a toll on your asphalt. Fortunately, many of the resulting issues can be addressed with commercial paving and sealcoating. To protect your asphalt surface from damage, learn more about how heat negatively impacts the material below.

How Heat Affects Asphalt

Asphalt absorbs UV rays, making it highly susceptible to UV damage. This can take many different forms.

Raveling happens as individual aggregate particles become detached from the pavement, leaving a pock-marked surface texture. As this happens, more surface area becomes exposed, and small cracks begin to open, allowing for more water and potential UV damage.

Tracking is when the sun's heat softens an asphalt surface, and small pieces chip off and become stuck on car tires and the shoes of passersby. Cracking can also occur from prolonged exposure to UV rays, particularly on roads and parking lots where there's heavy vehicle traffic.

Oxidation occurs when UV radiation triggers a chemical reaction within the asphalt oils, reducing their binding effect. This is typically the most severe level of asphalt damage, as it can weaken the entire ground structure and make the surface brittle.

How to Protect Your Asphalt

One surefire way to protect asphalt and extend its lifespan is through sealcoating and crack filling. This process will help block out UV rays that the surface would normally absorb. Sealcoating also helps accelerate the melting of ice and snow in winter, protect the asphalt from oxidation and chemical spills, shield against water penetration, and reduce long-term repair costs.

If your asphalt needs some TLC, trust the experts at Professional Asphalt Services, Inc. in Long Lake, MN. As one of the leading asphalt and sealcoating contractors in the Minneapolis area, they’ve been providing superior repair and maintenance services for over 25 years. This licensed, bonded, and insured company also provides everything from asphalt patching to commercial sealcoating and parking lot maintenance. To schedule an estimate for your paving project, call (612) 636-8888. You can also visit them online for more information on their services.