As a commercial property owner, investing in quality materials and selecting an experienced asphalt construction partner is essential for building safe, long-lasting pavement. However, regular maintenance remains important, even with expert construction.
Turn to Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving, Inc.’s construction specialists for professional guidance and asphalt maintenance support. We can help protect your investment and ensure a safe environment for visitors and their vehicles.
Regular Inspections
Most asphalt professionals recommend inspections at least twice a year, usually once in the summer and once in the winter. However, Charleston and coastal South Carolina properties experience heavy rainfall and occasional major weather events, such as tropical storms. They can weaken and wear out pavement more quickly than in regions with milder climates.
In addition to regular, bi-yearly inspections, our team recommends scheduling one after every major weather event to keep it in good condition. Check for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, potholes, fading, and drainage issues. Document the damage you find to assess the exact maintenance and repair your pavement needs.
Crack Sealing and Asphalt Patching
Cracks are among the most common forms of wear and tear on any asphalt surface. However, they shouldn’t be ignored. Small cracks let in water that can erode the base layers, threatening the integrity of your commercial asphalt paving. If not addressed, these cracks can deepen or facilitate the formation of potholes, turning a potentially inexpensive fix into a costly issue.
Crack sealing is an effective way to stop water infiltration, the leading cause of asphalt deterioration. If your asphalt is no longer even due to dips or potholes, our team can repair the surface with an appropriate asphalt mix and make it safe to walk or drive on again.
Regular Sealcoating
Sealcoating provides your commercial asphalt with a protective layer that shields it from UV rays, rain, snow, and traffic wear, enhancing its durability. The coating also makes the asphalt look darker and more uniform, making it visually appealing and boosting the property’s curb appeal.
Industry standards recommend property owners schedule a sealcoating service on commercial asphalt every two to three years. Regular sealcoating keeps the asphalt surface protected from the elements over long periods, making it more resistant to daily wear and preserving its appearance.
Drainage Maintenance
Besides infiltration through cracks, standing or pooling water can deteriorate commercial pavements, accelerating wear and tear on the surface. All asphalt surfaces need drainage systems to protect them from these risks.
Typical examples include curbs, gutters, catch basins, and stormwater drains to prevent water from pooling. Slight pavement slopes complement these systems by guiding water away from the surface, even during heavy rainfall.
All these systems need to be maintained to function properly. During an inspection, check for debris, clogs in gutters and catch basins, vegetation buildups, erosion, and other signs that drainage needs attention. Clean all drainage systems and check for damage every month or after a major weather event. Then contact our commercial asphalt paving company for drainage repairs and maintenance as needed to limit the risks of structural damage.
Avoiding Heavy Load and Stress
Commercial asphalt is designed with stronger mixes and thicker surfaces than residential equivalents to withstand heavier traffic. However, it can still wear out prematurely if exposed to excessive or unbalanced loads. The potential consequences include dips and depressions, cracking, and rutting.
Signage, parking lot design, and designated areas can guide pedestrians, cars, and semi-trucks to the right areas and help distribute the weight more evenly. These strategies can help avoid unnecessary wear and tear, keeping heavy vehicles or dense traffic from the lighter or less well-supported areas of your pavement.
Professional Maintenance and Resurfacing
Working with a commercial construction company for routine maintenance and assessments is a simple way to extend the life of your commercial pavement. Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving, Inc., has the years of experience to accurately evaluate your asphalt’s condition and determine the correct repairs.
For instance, we can assess whether your asphalt has aged and requires resurfacing to extend its lifespan. A resurfacing project applies a fresh layer of asphalt on top of the existing one, rejuvenating the surface and adding years of life to your pavement without a complete rebuild.
Get Long-Lasting Asphalt Paving—Schedule a Consultation
For quality commercial asphalt paving in Charleston, SC, trust Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving, Inc. We have over 37 years of experience serving Charleston, SC, and all surrounding communities with our comprehensive asphalt services.
We are proud to help the city and local businesses thrive. Contact us today and let us assist you with your next commercial project, from routine maintenance to resurfacing and redesigning projects.