There are many reasons why asphalt is a popular choice of pavement material in New Zealand. It’s durable, flexible, and has an average lifespan of 15 to 25 years. It’s also easy to maintain and typically quieter to drive on than concrete. Due to these qualities, asphalt paving is used for various infrastructure and transportation purposes, from provincial highways and suburban streets to private driveways and commercial car parks.
Nevertheless, several things can weaken and damage asphalt paving, causing it to deteriorate more quickly. Let’s have a look at what these factors are and the practical solutions that can be implemented to prevent them from affecting the durability of asphalt paving.
Quality of Materials and Workmanship
The durability of asphalt paving is significantly influenced by the quality of the materials used. High-quality asphalt mixes containing the right balance of aggregate, binder, and filler ensure a strong, long-lasting pavement. Inferior materials, however, can lead to a weaker surface that’s more prone to early wear, cracks, and potholes. Workmanship is also equally important in determining how long an asphalt pavement will last. Poorly installed asphalt—whether due to inadequate compaction, improper layering, or uneven distribution of the mix—can result in weak spots and voids that lead to premature failure.
That’s why hiring reputable contractors, like Asphalt Services Ltd., is essential when it comes to asphalting jobs. Whether the project is repairing a residential asphalt driveway or asphalting a newly built pathway, Asphalt Services Ltd. ensures that the job is done the right way. Our team of professional asphalters has over 20+ years of experience in the business and has the skills to operate all the tools and equipment needed to create a smooth and even asphalt pavement. Additionally, we use premium quality materials, so homeowners can rest assured our asphalt pavements can handle the elements and last long.
Traffic Volume and Load
The volume and type of traffic that asphalt paving endures is a major factor affecting its longevity. Roads and surfaces subjected to heavy traffic loads experience more wear and tear, and the repeated stress of vehicles can cause rutting or cracking—ultimately reducing the pavement’s lifespan. As such, it’s important to design asphalt surfaces according to the expected traffic volume and vehicle weight.
For instance, highways and industrial areas where heavy vehicles are common should use thicker asphalt layers and high-performance asphalt mixes that can withstand more stress. The use of modified binders, such as polymer-modified asphalt (PMA), can also increase resistance to deformation caused by traffic. Furthermore, authorities should implement weight limits for certain areas to properly manage the weight distribution on roads. Doing so can further prevent overloading and prolong the life of asphalt paving.
With residential applications, traffic may be lighter, but the design of asphalt driveways and paths still requires careful consideration. Residential pavements often experience frequent but lighter loads from utes, cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. Ensuring proper asphalt mix and thickness can result in better crack resistance and less surface degradation over time. Additionally, features such as water drainage systems can mitigate water pooling, which can be detrimental to the asphalt pavement.
Infrequent Repairs and Maintenance
Over time, even high-quality asphalt surfaces will begin to show signs of wear due to traffic, weather, and environmental exposure. Cracks may form, and if left unattended, they can worsen, allowing water to penetrate the surface and cause further damage to the underlying layers. In this case, timely intervention is needed to help protect the asphalt from further degradation. Asphalt Services Ltd. offers quality asphalt repairs, such as crack sealing, pothole repairs, and surface treatments, to restore the pavement’s surface and structural integrity.
Apart from repairs, preventive maintenance also ensures that minor issues don’t escalate into major problems. Sealcoating, for example, can be applied every few years to protect the asphalt from UV rays, water, and industrial chemicals like oil and petrol, which can cause it to break down. Similarly, periodic resurfacing, where a new layer of asphalt is applied over the existing surface, can refresh the pavement and add additional years to its lifespan. With regular upkeep, the lifespan of asphalted surfaces can be significantly extended.
Climate and Weather
The climate and weather conditions in New Zealand can significantly impact the durability of asphalt paving. Factors such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, and exposure to rain and frost can cause the material to expand and contract, leading to cracking and other forms of deterioration. Moreover, prolonged exposure to UV radiation can degrade the binder in the asphalt, resulting in surface ravelling and loss of structural integrity.
To mitigate the effects of weather and climate on asphalt durability, it’s essential to choose the right type of asphalt mix that suits local weather conditions. Using polymer-modified asphalts, for instance, can improve resistance to heat and cracking. Incorporating reflective aggregates, on the other hand, can help reduce heat absorption, minimising the risk of deformation in warmer climates of the North Island. Furthermore, adapting construction techniques to local climatic conditions will ensure that asphalt paving remains resilient and durable over time.
The longevity of asphalt paving projects constructed in New Zealand is influenced by many factors, and by understanding and addressing these, those concerned can significantly enhance the durability and performance of asphalt surfaces. If you’re looking for professional asphalters in Dunedin and Otago, New Zealand, to work on your asphalt paving project, visit our contact page and fill out the form. You can also click here to learn more about our free site assessment.
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