In both summer and winter, severe weather is a fact of life. While properly laid asphalt is durable and relatively weather-resistant, big storms could spell big problems if there are any existing issues. Before a storm hits, take the time to make sure your asphalt is ready for the onslaught. Here are 4 ways to ensure that your asphalt survives a storm.
1. Assess
On a clear day, make a detailed assessment of the asphalt, as well as its immediate surroundings. Common trouble spots that could put your asphalt at risk include, but are not limited to:
Asphalt Cracks: Even minor cracks open up the possibility of water intrusion, which could erode the asphalt from the inside out.
Dips or Depressions: These allow water to pool, weakening the surface of the asphalt and increasing the likelihood of cracks or potholes.
Drainage Issues: Blocked drains allow water to pool on the asphalt’s surface, weakening it. Staining and debris are clear signs that there is a drainage issue nearby.
Potholes: Potholes tend to worsen over time, and if standing water collects in one, it will not take long for that entire section of asphalt to fail.
2. Make Minor Repairs
Most of the issues you find will likely be simple and inexpensive to fix now, but could lead to major damage during or after a storm. Fill in cracks, remove debris, clear blocked drains, and sweep the asphalt regularly to prevent debris from accumulating.
3. Call in the Professionals
If there are larger issues, such as potholes or depressions, call in an asphalt expert for professional advice. There are numerous possible repair solutions, from skin patching to dig-out patching to resurfacing. Each has its own pros and cons, and some options are more expensive than others. Your asphalt expert can assess the situation with a critical eye and make recommendations that are customized to your particular needs.
4. Consider a Seal Coat
A seal coat locks out water intrusion as well as asphalt-damaging chemicals and even UV rays. Although it might seem pricey at first, when amortized over its 2 to 3-year lifespan, a seal coat can be a relatively inexpensive way to protect your asphalt from costly damage.
Both summer and winter storms are inevitable, and both can wreak havoc on asphalt. Fortunately, properly-installed asphalt that is regularly maintained has a good chance of surviving the weather. Make a detailed assessment of likely trouble spots, fix any minor issues you find, and call in a professional to help you decide what to do about any major existing problems. Add a seal coat, and your asphalt should be ready for storm season.
Why Choose Topwest Asphalt?
Based in Abbotsford, Topwest Asphalt also serves Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Maple Ridge. Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? We invite you to call Topwest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!
