Rain damaged asphalt is a common occurrence for the state of Florida. Despite precautionary measures, the environment has other plans for the quality of our roadways. With hurricane season fast approaching, you may just see some of these common forms of water damage. Read on to find out more.
Florida typically has a substantial rainy season. Hurricanes certainly contribute to the problem. But, how does that affect our roadways? Rain can be a powerful force in large amounts. After all, it is in the nature of water to wash things away. Rain can cause major catastrophes such as landslides and flash floods. It should be no surprise that rain can cause damage to things of everyday use such as roadways. This article will look at three common problems caused by rain.
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Rain Compromises Structure
All three forms of rain damaged asphalt listed below stem from a form of compromised structure. Wait. How do you compromise a sealed, compressed, rock-like surface? Rain has the ability to find every flaw on the surface of asphalt. Asphalt that was not fully covered by sealant or the sealant was spread too thin may be compromised. Likewise, asphalt that has not been maintained in a very long time is at risk.
Poor construction and maintenance leave the asphalt vulnerable to chemical decomposition by the molecules in the rain. But, even if asphalt is completely protected and sealed, rain can still cause damages.
Cracking
Cracks are those unsightly gaps between the surfaces of your driveway or road. Unfortunately, this problem is not caused only by rain, but by heat as well. However, rain water can exacerbate cracking. Rain damaged asphalt can be cracked pavement. The danger of cracked pavement to you is the potential of future issues. Namely, pot holes and washout can occur to compromised asphalt.
Crumbling
Crumbling is what is happening if the edges of asphalt are starting to break apart. This damage often happens when the supporting ground underneath the road has been eroded. A common culprit is rain. In this case, rain either sweeps the ground out from the edges of road or it pockets beneath it. Rain damaged asphalt can crumble suddenly or overtime. In areas with insufficient drainage, crumbling is more likely to occur, taking chunks out of the side of a roadway.
Potholes
Rain damaged asphalt can look cracked and crumbled. Both forms of damage can lead to potholes. When water pockets underneath asphalt, it can damage the ground integrity. When this type of washout happens, the supporting ground is compromised. Potholes form when the asphalt either forms around the depression or crumble into it. This form of rain damaged asphalt is not always preventable. Unfortunately, potholes may catch an unsuspecting driver off-guard, causing damage to the vehicle. It is important to your safety to report potholes to your roadway authority so that they can be filled.
Your paving needs can be met with Level Pro. Our experts can provide detailed answers to any questions you may have regarding your future project. For roadways that your car would love, contact us today.