Can sunlight damage your asphalt driveway? Find out here.

If you are reading this article, you have likely heard that UV light can damage your asphalt driveway. The truth is that many things can damage asphalt beside the hot summer sun. Who knows? Some of the culprits might surprise you. Follow along as we go over the many things that can damage your asphalt driveway.

Can UV Light Damage Your Asphalt Driveway?

Yes, UV light can damage your asphalt driveway and does over time. UV rays harm your blacktop in the same way it harms your skin without protection. It can break down the particles on the topmost layer and eventually cause the driveway to crack.Sealcoating the driveway every few years protects it from damage.

Other Things That Damage Your Asphalt Driveway

Water

Sealcoating also protects your driveway from many other things, including its biggest culprit: water. Asphalt is a naturally porous material, and any water that gets below the surface can begin to erode it from the inside out, especially during winter as the temperature fluctuates above and below freezing.

Heavy Vehicles

Unfortunately, using the driveway will eventually damage it as well. The continual force of heavy vehicles on your pavement will slowly wear it down. The pavement can eventually form ruts and cracks from long years of use.

Oil and Other Spills

Even though asphalt binder is a petroleum byproduct, oil and other fluids can leave nasty stains on its surface. They could even erode the surface. The danger of spills and stains is another reason to seal your asphalt diligently.

Poor Installation Work

If the asphalt was installed incorrectly, it will fail from the start. You might seegrass growing through it, cracks and ruts forming, water pooling, and other forms of chaos. It’s important to hire theright asphalt contractor!

Metal Shovels

Avoid shoveling snow with metal shovels, even if you need to break down ice. Asphalt driveways will get scratched by sharp metal objects applied with force.

Oxygen

Lastly, oxygen breaks down asphalt driveways, too. As soon as the pavement cures, oxygen begins to oxidize the pavement, which is partly why it turns from a sleek black to a pale gray. Thankfully, asphalt lasts many years and will not crumble just because of the air.

Receive Asphalt Paving Services with Tri-State Paving

Call Tri-State Paving. We’re a seasoned asphalt pavement company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge to help you turn your backyard into the perfect retreat quickly and affordably. Our experts will work with you to find a design and layout for the outdoor kitchen and dining area that you’re sure to love for years and years to come.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

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The post Can UV Light Damage Your Asphalt Driveway? appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.