Asphalt paving is strong and durable, but it needs care to last a long time. Without proper maintenance, cracks and potholes can form, making roads, driveways, and parking lots unsafe and unattractive.
At Sacramento Asphalt Sealing, located at 2431 Catalina Dr, Sacramento, CA 95864, United States, we specialize in helping customers protect their asphalt. This guide will show you easy ways to keep asphalt in great shape for many years.
Why Asphalt Needs Maintenance
Asphalt is exposed to the sun, rain, and heavy traffic. Over time, these elements can weaken it. Proper care helps prevent damage and saves money on costly repairs.
Common Problems with Asphalt
Cracks – Small cracks can grow bigger if left untreated.
Potholes – Holes form when water seeps into cracks and weakens the surface.
Fading – The sun’s UV rays cause asphalt to lose its dark color.
Water Damage – Rain and standing water weaken asphalt and lead to cracks and potholes.
Regular maintenance helps prevent these problems, keeping asphalt strong and looking new.
1. Keep Asphalt Clean
Dirt, leaves, and debris can trap moisture and lead to damage. Oil and gas spills can also break down asphalt over time.
How to Clean Asphalt
Sweep the surface regularly to remove dirt and debris.
Wash away stains from oil, gas, or chemicals using soap and water.
Use a pressure washer once in a while to deep-clean the surface.
2. Fill Cracks Right Away
Small cracks may not seem like a big deal, but they can grow and lead to potholes. Water can seep into these cracks, making them worse over time.
How to Fill Cracks
Clean the crack by removing dirt and loose pieces.
Use a crack filler to seal the crack.
Let it dry completely before using the surface again.
Filling cracks quickly prevents larger repairs later.
3. Sealcoat Your Asphalt
Sealcoating is like sunscreen for asphalt. It protects the surface from the sun, rain, and chemicals.
Benefits of Sealcoating
Prevents cracks and potholes.
Restores the dark color of asphalt.
Extends the life of the pavement.
How Often to Sealcoat
Driveways: Every 2–3 years.
Parking lots: Every 3–5 years.
Roads: Every 3–5 years.
Sealcoating is one of the best ways to extend the life of asphalt.
4. Prevent Water Damage
Water is one of the biggest threats to asphalt. Standing water can weaken the surface and lead to cracks and potholes.
How to Protect Against Water Damage
Make sure water drains properly.
Fill low spots where water collects.
Keep gutters and drains clear to prevent flooding.
Fixing drainage problems early prevents serious damage later.
5. Avoid Heavy Loads
Asphalt is strong, but heavy vehicles and equipment can cause cracks and dents.
How to Reduce Damage
Avoid parking heavy trucks or machinery on asphalt for long periods.
Place boards under heavy objects to spread out the weight.
Use proper asphalt thickness for areas with heavy traffic.
Spreading out the weight helps prevent damage.
6. Repair Potholes Quickly
Potholes form when water gets under the asphalt and weakens it. If left alone, potholes can grow bigger and cause accidents.
How to Fix a Pothole
Remove loose asphalt from the hole.
Fill the hole with asphalt patch material.
Compact the patch so it stays firm.
Let it set before using the area again.
Fixing potholes early saves money and prevents further damage.
7. Protect the Edges
The edges of asphalt are weaker than the middle. They can crack and break if not protected.
How to Keep Edges Strong
Avoid driving on the very edge of the asphalt.
Add a border like concrete or gravel to keep edges from crumbling.
Keep grass and weeds away from the edges, as roots can cause cracks.
Protecting the edges helps the asphalt stay in good shape.
8. Control Weeds and Roots
Weeds and tree roots can push through asphalt, causing cracks and bumps.
How to Stop Weeds and Roots
Remove weeds as soon as they appear.
Use a weed killer that is safe for asphalt.
Avoid planting trees too close to asphalt surfaces.
Install a root barrier to stop tree roots from growing under asphalt.
Stopping weeds and roots early prevents cracks and damage.
9. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Certain chemicals can break down asphalt over time.
What to Avoid
Gasoline and oil spills.
Harsh cleaning products.
De-icing salts in winter.
Use gentle cleaning products and clean up spills right away to protect asphalt.
10. Regular Inspections
Checking asphalt regularly helps catch small problems before they get worse.
What to Look For
Small cracks or holes.
Areas with standing water.
Fading color or rough texture.
Fixing minor issues early can prevent major repairs later.
Conclusion
Taking care of asphalt is easy when you follow these steps. Keeping it clean, sealing it, filling cracks, and avoiding heavy loads will keep it looking great for years.
If you need professional help with asphalt maintenance, Sacramento Asphalt Sealing is here for you! Our team at 2431 Catalina Dr, Sacramento, CA 95864, United States provides expert paving and sealing services to keep your asphalt strong and long-lasting.
For more information or a free estimate, contact us today!
