Rainwater is an amazing force of nature that can destroy anything that comes its way. You might be thinking asphalt cannot be damaged as its durable but that’s not true. Rain can be a problem for asphalt parking lots. While asphalt is a durable and commonly used material due to its strength and flexibility, it is not immune to the effects of water. In fact, prolonged exposure to rainwater can cause significant damage to asphalt surfaces over time.
When water damages the underlying structure, the ground’s surface totally changes. A simple deep crack can damage the whole area. So it’s important to take rain water seriously and pay attention to parking lots as they would be damaged after heavy rain. Get ready for Paving Installations after heavy rain in your area.
Why Rain Can Be a Problem for Asphalt Parking Lots?
Yes, it’s important to know the major reasons why water damages the asphalt. Before selecting the repair procedure, know the actual reason for the damage. Here we have a detailed guide about the reasons for water damage to asphalt. Let’s discuss them in detail:
Water Seepage
One of the main problems with rain and asphalt parking lots is water seepage. When rainwater penetrates the surface of the asphalt, it can weaken the underlying layers and cause them to deteriorate, leading to cracks, potholes, and other structural issues. A tiny hole can be the reason of easy water seepage and cause bigger problems.
Expansion and Contraction
Another issue is the expansion and contraction of the asphalt surface due to changes in temperature and moisture levels. When rainwater seeps into the asphalt and evaporates, it can cause it to expand and contract, leading to cracking and crumbling over time. You will not see the damage right after the rain, but yes, eventually, it’s gonna happen. After heavy rain, you will see the contractions a few weeks later.
Poor Drainage
Many parking lots have poor drainage issues. You might think the water will be removed after some time, but it can cause bigger problems before it goes completely. Poor drainage can exacerbate the problems caused by rainwater. Suppose water cannot drain properly from the parking lot’s surface. In that case, it can pool and accumulate in low-lying areas, causing further damage to the asphalt and creating safety hazards for drivers and pedestrians.
Damages That Happen to Asphalt Parking Lots
Here, we list some damages that occur to asphalt parking lots after heavy rain. It’s important to know about the damage so that it can be repaired quickly. Let’s discuss the three types in detail:
Cracking
One of the most common damages to asphalt parking lots after heavy rains is cracking. The expansion and contraction of the asphalt surface, combined with the pressure exerted by standing water, can cause the asphalt to crack and split, leading to structural weaknesses and potential safety hazards. This heavy rainwater weakens the bond between asphalt binder and aggregates. This bond damage can weaken the paving, and this is the time to call Asphalt Paving VA professionals. They can handle the work easily and help you to enjoy parking lots in a new way.
Potholes
Another common problem is the formation of potholes. Prolonged exposure to rainwater can weaken the asphalt surface, making it more susceptible to potholes. When water seeps into the cracks and crevices of the asphalt and then freezes and expands, it can further damage the surface and create potholes. Potholes will spread up and break up more easily with time. This way, the pavement will need complete repair or installation to work properly.
Fading and Degradation
Heavy rains can accelerate the fading and degradation of the asphalt surface. The constant exposure to moisture can cause the asphalt to lose its color and texture, making it look worn and unattractive. This detracts from the parking lot’s aesthetic appeal and indicates underlying structural issues that must be addressed. Call the professional team on time to check the site and start working as soon as possible. The professionals know how everything works, and they will use high-quality materials this time to avoid any hassle in the future.
Final Wording
Parking lots require a lot of care and repair as they are being used throughout the day and night. Due to heavy traffic, they need extra care. However, water damage can be a bug problem in these areas. Even asphalt paving can be damaged by heavy rainwater. You need to pay attention to paving materials and professionals when repairing the paving.
Make sure you have selected the best team, and they use high-quality materials according to the heavy traffic in parking lots.
