Pavements are essential to our transportation infrastructure, providing vehicles and pedestrians with a safe and reliable surface. However, pavements get exposed to various weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow, which can cause them to deteriorate over time.
Read more to learn how different weather conditions affect pavements and ways to mitigate these effects.
Extreme Heat
Pavements exposed to extreme heat can experience expansion and contraction, leading to cracking and deformation. The heat can also cause the pavement to become more brittle, making it more susceptible to cracking from traffic loads.
In areas with high temperatures, using materials that can withstand heat, such as asphalt designed for high-temperature environments, is essential. Additionally, regular maintenance, such as crack sealing and seal coating, can help prevent damage caused by the expansion and contraction of the pavement.
Cold Temperatures
In areas with cold temperatures, pavements can experience freeze-thaw cycles, where water penetrates the pavement and expands when it freezes, causing cracks and potholes. When we put salt and other chemicals on roads to remove snow and ice, it can make the roads weaker and more likely to get damaged.
Materials for cold climates, such as polymer-modified asphalt and air-entrained concrete, can combat these effects. Regular maintenance, such as filling in potholes and setting up adequate drainage systems, aids in preventing further damage.
Rain
Rain can contribute to pavement deterioration by causing erosion and weakening the base layers of the pavement. It can also seep into cracks and freeze, causing potholes and other damage. Proper drainage is crucial in preventing rainwater from accumulating on the pavement. Routine inspections help prevent damage caused by erosion and the freeze-thaw cycle.
Snow
Snow can cause pavement damage through repeated freeze-thaw cycles, making it more difficult for vehicles to grip the pavement and increasing wear and tear. Plows and other snow removal equipment can also damage pavements if misused. Pavements in regions with heavy snowfall must withstand the additional stress caused by snow removal equipment. They need routine maintenance to prevent damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles.
How Can Professional Pavement Services Help?
Professional pavement services can help prepare your pavement for varying weather conditions. Experienced pavement contractors have the knowledge and expertise to select the appropriate materials and construction methods for your specific climate and the skills to identify potential problems and provide solutions to mitigate damage.
Additionally, professional pavement services can ensure proper drainage. Water is a significant contributor to pavement deterioration, so it’s essential to have a drainage system that directs water away from the pavement surface. Professional contractors can design and install drainage systems that prevent water from pooling on the pavement and causing damage.
If you want to ensure that your pavement can withstand varying weather conditions, Tristar Paving is here to help. Our experienced pavement contractors can provide a wide range of services, including selecting suitable materials, designing and installing drainage systems, providing regular maintenance, and promoting safety on your pavement. Contact us at (615) 640-4090 for expert solutions to prevent common commercial paving problems.