The Midwest region experiences all four seasons, meaning it has hot, humid summers as well as snowy, cold winters. Tornadoes, floods, blizzards, droughts and other severe weather events also happen here. And Midwest weather patterns often change drastically in a short period of time. Our experts at A1 Professional Asphalt & Sealing have put together this guide to help Midwest commercial property owners understand how weather affects asphalt and concrete parking lots.
Freezing temperatures
When your parking lot traps moisture beneath the pavements, low temperatures can freeze the water and cause the ground to heave. This is called frost heave and commonly occurs beneath parking lot pavements that lack proper drainage and maintenance.
Rain and moisture
During the rainy season, a functional drainage system is crucial to avoid moisture damage to asphalt and concrete parking lots. Water that seeps down wears away the bond between the pavement’s binder and aggregate. Asphalt and concrete parking lots damaged by moisture endure distress that could lead to cracking, stripping, raveling or rutting.
Hot temperatures
Almost every hard surface tends to absorb heat, and asphalt and concrete are no exception. Although asphalt and concrete parking lots are designed to withstand high temperatures, extremely hot temperatures can soften these surfaces. Prolonged heat exposure can lead to cracking, raveling, oxidation or tracking.
Temperature changes
The Midwest region often experiences large temperature shifts in a short span of time. When the temperature rises and falls, it can spur the contraction and expansion of a parking lot’s pavement, leading to damage. A simple crack can grow drastically, and if it’s not handled immediately, it can cause the surface to warp.
A1 Professional Asphalt & Sealing can help
Are you experiencing cracking, raveling or any other problem with your concrete or asphalt parking lot caused by weather damage? Whether you need a simple repair or replacement of your entire parking lot, we’ll ensure perfection. Contact us today for an estimate.