The average asphalt surface has a life expectancy of seven years and is exposed to the elements day in and day out. A well-designed, quality asphalt road or parking lot can last up to 15 years, but all it takes is one mistake to ruin everything. The following are 5 reasons why your asphalt surface doesn’t stay smooth:
No Aggregate Base Foundation
Let’s start with the basics. What is an aggregate base? An aggregate base is the foundation of your asphalt surface, which helps it to stay smooth and long-lasting. It comprises small pieces of rock (called “aggregate”) compacted together in layers to form a solid base beneath your asphalt. The aggregate base provides stability for your road or parking lot by keeping water out, reducing erosion, and preventing cracks from forming in the pavement above it.
A great deal!
Having an adequate amount of crushed stone will ensure there aren’t any holes or gaps where water can pool up underneath your pavement–this is especially important if you live in an area where it often rains during winter months.
- Lack Of Quality Control
Quality control is the most essential part of any manufacturing process. It ensures you get the best possible product, which will last longer and look better in your driveway. If you don’t have quality control, then it’s likely that your asphalt surfaces will only stay smooth for a short time because they will deteriorate quickly.
Here are some tips on how to ensure quality control:
Ensure only trained technicians work on your job site to properly install the asphalt surface on top of an existing concrete slab or base layer (if necessary). If you want additional information about this process, please contact us today!
- Poor Subgrade Preparation
Poor subgrade preparation is one of the most common causes of rough asphalt surfaces. Subgrade preparation is the first step in road construction, and it’s an essential part of creating a smooth ride. The subgrade is the foundation for your asphalt surface, so if it’s not done correctly, your road will likely have bumps and holes when you drive over it–or even worse, become damaged due to being unable to withstand moisture or weather conditions such as frost heave (when frozen soil expands).
- Poor Compaction
Poor compaction is another reason why asphalt surfaces don’t stay smooth. When the contractor or crew that laid your driveway doesn’t compact the material properly, it will have an uneven surface and be prone to potholes. Poorly-compacted material will also be easier for roots and weeds to grow through because no solid layers are holding them down like with well-compacted material!
To improve compaction, use heavy equipment such as rollers or vibratory plates after laying each layer of hot mix; make sure all equipment used during paving operations has been calibrated regularly; avoid using too little bituminous binder when mixing up batches–too much water can lead to problems later on
- Inadequate Asphalt Thickness
Asphalt thickness is vital to get the best results. If you have too thin of an asphalt surface, it will only last for a while and must be replaced sooner. If you have too thick of an asphalt surface, installing and maintaining it will be more expensive because the crew has to use more material. Also, keep in mind that the correct thickness varies based on your project needs:
If your project requires heavy traffic or if there are vehicles with high weight ratings (such as trucks), then thicker materials should be used so they don’t break down faster than usual; however, if there isn’t much foot traffic on this part of your driveway or parking lot then thinner materials may work just fine!
Final Words
In conclusion, this blog help you understand the importance of reasonable quality control and how it can help keep your asphalt surfaces smooth. Toledo Paving Contractors is a reliable paving company that provides high-quality services to both residential and commercial clients. Our Service Areas are 335 N St Clair St, Toledo, OH 43604, United States. Our specialists will help you decide what kind of paving to use, ensure that your project is done on time and budget, and answer any questions. Call (567) 806-1933 today to schedule a free quote! If you have any questions or concerns about your asphalt, please get in touch with our team today!
Faqs:
- Why does my asphalt driveway develop rough patches over time? Over time, asphalt surfaces can develop rough patches due to several factors. The most common reasons include inadequate compaction during installation, heavy traffic wear and tear, and the effects of harsh weather conditions such as freezing and thawing.
- Can poor maintenance contribute to my asphalt surface losing its smoothness?
Yes, poor maintenance can significantly impact the smoothness of your asphalt surface.
- How does water infiltration affect the smoothness of asphalt?
Water infiltration is a leading cause of asphalt deterioration. When water seeps into cracks and crevices, it can freeze, expand, and weaken the asphalt. This freeze-thaw cycle gradually erodes the surface, leading to roughness and pothole formation.
- Can heavy vehicles or machinery damage the smoothness of asphalt surfaces?
Yes, heavy vehicles, machinery, and constant traffic can accelerate asphalt surfaces’ wear and tear.
- How can I prevent my asphalt surface from losing its smoothness?
To maintain a smooth asphalt surface, investing in regular maintenance is crucial. It includes seal coating every few years, filling cracks promptly, addressing drainage issues, and repairing damaged areas.