How the Heat Affects Concrete and Asphalt

May 27, 2021 Published by Leave your thoughts

While concrete and asphalt are made to withstand extreme weather and temperatures like we see in Phoenix, AZ, they can still experience some issues due to heat. Extremely hot temperatures can cause cracks, gaps and other types of damage to concrete and asphalt. These types of damage will sometimes result in the need for expensive repairs. That’s why it’s important to choose the right type of concrete or asphalt for your local climate.

Proper installation and maintenance will often help prevent asphalt and concrete damages caused by heat. Read on to learn more.

Damages heat can cause

As mentioned above, high temperatures can cause cracks in your asphalt or concrete in Phoenix, AZ. This is often a problem as small cracks will turn into large ones over time, which are often dangerous and unsightly. Water can seep into cracks of any size and will cause major damage to concrete when it freezes.

Major cracking in the surface of your concrete or asphalt could result in potholes. Large potholes are often difficult to fix and can seriously damage any vehicles that drive over them. If you have a pothole in your driveway, it’s best to have it repaired right away.

After long exposure to high temperatures, concrete and asphalt surfaces will weaken. This is because the surface becomes dehydrated. Dehydrated concrete and asphalt surfaces will crack easily if not rehydrated.

Protecting against extreme heat

It’s important to provide all concrete and asphalt surfaces on your property with routine maintenance. One of the best ways to maintain your asphalt surface is by having sealcoating applied every once in a while. This will help prevent cracks from forming due to high temperatures.

If you have a concrete surface, it’s good to add sealant every couple of years. This sealant will help protect your concrete surface against all types of weather, including extreme heat. If you’re unsure whether it’s time for a fresh coat of sealant, speak with a concrete contractor in your area. They will usually have the best advice.

Having concrete or asphalt installed in the summer

It’s sometimes quite difficult to install concrete or asphalt during the warmer months. When it’s warm outside, concrete can set too quickly. This may cause your concrete surface to get weak quicker than usual. Concrete may cure unevenly during high temperatures as well.

In Phoenix and the surrounding areas, it’s often hard to find a day during the summer that isn’t exceptionally hot. That’s why it’s good to start the concrete installation process earlier in the day. You might also consider using ice water to prepare the concrete mix and spraying the area with cool water.

Installing asphalt on hot days is often problematic as well. When it’s too warm outside, the asphalt won’t set. That’s why it’s recommended you only install asphalt when the temperature is below 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Now that you know how the higher temperatures can affect asphalt and concrete, it’s time to give your Phoenix, AZ pavement some better protection. Contact Sunstar Seal Coating, Inc. for some of the best sealcoating and pavement repair services around.

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