straight road

Asphalt is one of the most important materials used in constructing roads. It is durable, weather-resistant, and can handle heavy traffic loads. However, bad weather can take its toll on it, causing it to crack and deteriorate, leading to high asphalt repair costs. Discussed below are the effects of bad weather on pavement or road.

1. Winter

Winter conditions are among the worst for the pavement, causing it to become very cold. When this happens, tiny gaps may form on the pavement’s surface. Moisture then penetrates these cracks and freezes when temperatures drop. This accumulation of ice can cause large cracks to form under the surface.

The pavement may also experience problems with snow and ice melting. This melting can cause large cracks in the pavement that may result in a loss of structural integrity.

2. Spring

The pavement can become very soft and weak in spring due to weather stripping. It’s exposed to moisture that penetrates the cracks. The moisture evaporates during warm temperatures, and atmospheric pressure decreases, trapping air in the pavement gaps. This is what causes it to become very soft and weak.

3. Summer

In summer, the pavement is exposed to various conditions that cause it to deteriorate. In many cases, petroleum oils may accumulate on the pavement’s surface from gasoline and diesel fuel spills. This oil will then absorb sunlight and become very hot, causing it to soften and shrink away from the pavement. This will result in cracks and potholes.
In addition, it is very sensitive to the ultraviolet rays from sunlight. In sunny weather, the pavement can become dry and brittle. As a result, it may crack due to this lack of moisture content. In many cases, the pavements originally laid down when temperatures were still cold have a higher tendency to crack. This is because it may shrink and pull away from the pavement underneath when exposed to warm air and heating from sunlight.

4. Fall

The fall season generally brings about good weather conditions for road construction projects, but this does not mean that the pavement will be free from problems. In many cases, it may be exposed to frost heaving. Water that penetrates the pavement freezes when temperatures drop below the freezing point when this occurs. This can cause large chunks to rise or sink as ice forms underneath them. These cracks are known as honeycombs and can cause a great deal of damage to the surfaces.

How Badly Is Your Pavement Damaged?

If you have issues with bad weather effects on your pavement, get in touch with Sunshine Services Unlimited today. With years of experience under our belt, we know exactly what to do for asphalt repair. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to accommodate both your needs and budget. Call us today for more information.