Asphalt pavement is among the most popular choices for paving driveways and parking lots. Though it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best, asphalt pavement is a durable and cost-effective option that can last many years with proper care. This article gives tips on maintaining your asphalt pavement, so you can enjoy its benefits for years to come.

Routinely Inspect Your Pavement

If you want to keep your asphalt pavement in pristine condition, you need to routinely inspect it for any signs of damage. By doing this, you can catch any problems early on and have them repaired before they become too big and expensive to fix.

Among the most common problems that asphalt pavements face is cracking. Cracks can be caused by several things, including inclement weather, vehicle traffic, and tree roots. If left unrepaired, cracks can quickly turn into potholes. 

Keep in mind that water can seep into the cracks and freeze, causing the cracks to expand and resulting in further damage. By regularly inspecting your pavement, you can identify any potential problems early on and take steps to repair them before they get worse.

Another problem that asphalt pavements commonly face is fading. The sun's UV rays can cause the asphalt to fade and become dull in color. To keep your asphalt pavement looking its best, you should regularly seal coat it. Sealcoating helps protect the asphalt from the sun's UV rays and makes cleaning easier.

Another reason for regular inspections is to check the level of wear and tear. Over time, asphalt pavement can become worn down from exposure to the elements and heavy traffic. This deterioration can cause the surface to become uneven or develop ruts. Routine inspections allow you to identify these problem areas so that you can take corrective action, such as resurfacing or repairing damaged sections.

Perform Regular Cleaning

Your asphalt pavement will last much longer if you perform regular cleaning and maintenance. You should sweep it regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or leaves. If you have a power washer, you can use it to clean your asphalt pavement. Just be sure to use a low-pressure setting, so you don't damage the asphalt.

If you live in an area with a lot of snow and ice, you'll need to take special care of your asphalt pavement. Snow and ice can damage asphalt, so it's important to remove it as soon as possible. You can use a blower or shovel to get rid of the snow from your pavement. But only use a plastic shovel, so you don't scratch the asphalt.

If you have oil or grease stains on your asphalt pavement, you should clean them as soon as possible. Oil and grease can damage asphalt, so it's important to remove them quickly. You can use a commercial degreaser to remove oil and grease stains from asphalt.

To learn more, contact an asphalt paving service such as American USA Paving.