Are You Causing Damage To Your Asphalt Driveway?
Many homeowners place a great deal of focus on caring for the interior spaces of their home. They perform preventive maintenance and avoid harmful practices. However, when it comes to exterior spaces, such as the driveway, this train of thought isn't always duplicated. You might be surprised to discover that you are actually engaging in a number of practices that are causing damage to your asphalt driveway. Make certain you learn what practices to avoid to keep your asphalt in great shape and looking its best.
Ignoring An Oil Leak
If you have a vehicle that leaks oil, don't think that just because the asphalt is dark, the oil won't cause any harm. Oil left on the surface of your driveway can cause costly damage. The first problem you will recognize is staining. Oil left on your asphalt will leave unsightly stains that penetrate deep into the surface of the asphalt, making them impossible to remove. However, oil can also weaken the asphalt.
The chemicals used in asphalt are designed to help hold the rocks and gravel together. When the rocks and gravel are bonded together, this makes them stronger. The derivatives found in oil interact with these chemicals and prevent them from binding the rocks together. This generally leads to soft or weak spots on the asphalt. Unfortunately, once this process has begun there is nothing you can do to stop it, you simply have to replace the asphalt.
Parking Heavy Vehicles For Long Periods
If you have a heavy vehicle, like a boat or camper, avoid parking it on your asphalt driveway for long periods of time. Doing this is a great way to ruin your asphalt. Even though asphalt is designed to withstand a large amount of weight, when you fail to move these vehicles periodically, they can start to weaken the asphalt and leave soft spots or cracks.
Cracks in the asphalt are especially dangerous because they allow water to penetrate deep within the surface, which can cause further cracks and buckling. It's best to find an alternative storage area for these vehicles. However, if this is impossible, make it appoint to move your vehicle one a month. For example, if you have it parked on the left side of the driveway, move it to the right side for a month.
Make sure you aren't engaging in practices that are ruining your asphalt driveway in order to extend its life and keep it looking great.
To learn more, contact a company like Precision Lawn & Landscaping.