Investing in commercial asphalt paving is a long-term commitment to durability and performance. However, not all asphalt is the same. Poor-quality asphalt can lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and reduced lifespan, undermining the value of your investment. Knowing how to identify subpar asphalt early can save you time and money.
Here’s how to recognize poor-quality asphalt and why working with a trusted commercial asphalt paving company like Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving Inc. is crucial for achieving lasting results.
Raveling Asphalt
Raveling occurs when the surface aggregates of asphalt loosen and detach, leaving behind rough-looking, deteriorating pavement. Over time, this compromises safety and accelerates wear. Common causes of raveling include:
- Low-quality materials. Subpar asphalt binder or aggregates fail to form a durable bond, leaving the surface vulnerable to traffic and weather.
- Improper mix design. Incorrect ratios of binder to aggregates weaken the structural integrity of the asphalt.
- Insufficient maintenance. Failing to give the asphalt preventative maintenance, such as sealing cracks or applying sealcoating, can accelerate wear and tear and induce raveling.
Left untreated, raveling compromises safety and accelerates pavement wear. In Charleston’s busy commercial districts, parking lots experience heavy vehicle traffic, making them prone to raveling. Early detection through regular inspections is essential.
Applying a layer of sealcoating at the first signs of wear can protect the surface, restore integrity, and extend its lifespan. Partnering with experienced contractors ensures the use of premium materials and the correct asphalt mix for the project from the outset, reducing the risk of raveling.
Cracking Due to Improper Installation
Cracks in asphalt are more than just an eyesore; they indicate deeper issues often tied to poor installation practices. Common causes include:
- Inadequate subgrade preparation. A poorly prepared base leaves the asphalt unstable and unable to support heavy loads, leading to cracks.
- Insufficient compaction. Uneven or loose layers of asphalt fail to withstand traffic and environmental stress.
- Substandard materials. Using low-grade asphalt or the wrong type of mix for the job can cause surfaces to crack under pressure or changes in temperature.
For instance, a poorly paved driveway in Mount Pleasant might develop alligator cracks under the weight of heavy vehicles if the contractor skipped proper compaction. Cracks not only reduce the pavement’s lifespan but also increase maintenance costs.
The right asphalt construction partner should thoroughly assess your project’s needs so the correct materials and techniques are used. They will take every step necessary to ensure your property’s asphalt layers receive proper subgrade prep, the correct asphalt mix, and adequate compaction.
An asphalt surface that has been professionally assessed and installed is less likely to crack and require repairs or replacement in the future, saving you time and money.
Standing Water and Slow Water Drainage
Pooled water on asphalt surfaces is a red flag for drainage issues. This problem accelerates deterioration and is mainly caused by:
- Improper grading. This common cause of poor water drainage occurs when the asphalt surface doesn’t have enough slope to direct the water away from the surface. Water will stand in the lowest spots, forming pools.
- Clogged drainage systems. Even if the asphalt has proper grading, the drainage systems must be regularly cleaned and maintained to allow water to pass through. If the drains are blocked, the water will remain trapped on the surface, accelerating wear and tear.
Heavy rainfall and flooding are common in Charleston and most of South Carolina, making proper grading and well-maintained drainage necessary for asphalt surfaces. An experienced asphalt contractor can assess your property and land characteristics and determine the right grading and drainage system to minimize water accumulation.
Uneven Surfacing
Uneven asphalt creates an irregular, wavy appearance that diminishes functionality and curb appeal. This issue often results from:
- Inconsistent compaction during installation. If the soil under your asphalt hasn’t been evenly and properly compacted, it can create voids under the asphalt, which can become weak spots.
- Environmental factors. The Charleston area is frequently exposed to high humidity, frequent rainfall, and salty sea air. These factors can accelerate wear, tear, and degradation, causing the asphalt to become uneven if not well maintained.
Uneven surfacing on a commercial property, such as a supermarket’s parking lot, can harm customers and visitors. Besides worsening the property’s appearance and curb appeal, an uneven surface can create trip hazards and accelerate vehicle wear and tear.
A local commercial construction company with years of experience in the industry has the resources to minimize the risk of uneven surfacing. They can create a strong, properly compacted base layer using quality materials to create a smooth, stable surface.
Premature Shrinkage
Even with good compaction, proper subgrade preparation, and access to quality materials, a commercial asphalt surface can shrink prematurely — within months of installation — if it isn’t handled or maintained correctly. Common causes include:
- Exposure to the elements. Exposure to long periods of sunlight and UV rays causes the asphalt binder to oxidize. Usually, this process is more gradual and spread out over long periods. However, a low-quality binder or lack of sealcoating can cause asphalt to oxidize and shrink sooner.
- Rapid temperature changes. Frequent and intense cooling and heating cycles, such as during the spring in Charleston, can cause asphalt to contract and expand more than usual, increasing the risk of premature shrinkage.
The best way to avoid these risks is to work with an experienced local contractor. Their knowledge of the local climate and conditions allows them to adapt their asphalt mixing and prep work to the local environment to avoid premature wear and tear, ensuring your asphalt surface’s longevity.
Partner With Experts for Quality Asphalt
Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving Inc. is a trusted commercial asphalt paving company in Charleston, SC. We specialize in delivering durable, high-quality asphalt solutions tailored to your needs. Our team can help you recognize the signs of poor-quality asphalt, recommend the right solutions for repairs, resurfacing, or replacement, and protect your investment.
Don’t let subpar asphalt cost you more in the long run. Contact our asphalt experts today to work with a dependable asphalt construction partner.