Despite its rugged durability, asphalt is not completely immune to damage. Sun exposure and ultraviolet light rays can have a negative impact on the strength and durability of an asphalt surface. By taking the right steps, you can repair sun damage and potentially even prevent it from occurring. 

A Guide to UV Rays & Asphalt

How Sun Exposure Affects Asphalt

Asphalt is made from a mix of aggregates, which includes gravel, crushed stone, and cement. The cement is actually a liquid form of petroleum that is capable of forming a strong bond to bind the aggregates together.

The pavement is often hotter than the outdoor air temperature, especially when the sun is at its hottest during the day. As the sun heats the asphalt, the bonds can dry out and eventually fail, leading to a variety of problems.

How to Spot Signs of Sun Damage

As bonds break down and small defects emerge, water can infiltrate the material to weaken it even further. This makes the area more susceptible to cracking. Changes in temperature will also cause the ground to expand and contract, leading to cracking and gaps.

UV exposure may cause some sections of the pavement to become brittle and loose. The ground may also appear warped, melted, or discolored over time.

How to Prevent and Repair Damage

While you can’t completely stop sun damage from occurring, having your pavement seal coated will greatly expand its lifespan. Seal coating creates a protective layer that stops water infiltration and also reduces the effects of ultraviolet rays on the bonding agent.

After installation, asphalt should be sealed once it has completely cured, which can take anywhere from six months to a year. From that point on, pavement should be re-sealed every three to five years. 

If cracks have already developed, patching is a great option. Patching involves filling in gaps to prevent them from growing larger. Resurfacing is another possible option if the surface of the ground is damaged, but the foundation is still good. With this type of repair, the damaged surface is completely removed and covered with a brand-new layer.

If you need residential or commercial asphalt repair, trust the team at AAA Paving Company in Kernersville, NC, to help. Over the last 27 years, this locally owned and operated business has been a one-stop-shop for all things asphalt. Along with paving new surfaces, they also perform patching, resurfacing, and seal coating to keep existing pavement intact. Call (336) 723-1418 today to get started on a free estimate. View a gallery of past projects online.