How Do UV Rays Affect Asphalt Parking Lots?
Asphalt has long been a preferred parking lot material, offering a high degree of durability, strength, and resilience and requiring minimal maintenance and upkeep. But while asphalt is sturdy and reliable, it isn't impervious to damage, including fading and wear from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Below, learn more about how ultraviolet light affects asphalt parking lots, some common signs of UV-related damage, and how
sealcoating can protect your surfaces.
How Ultraviolet Light Impacts Asphalt
As the sun gives off light, its ultraviolet rays fuse with oxygen in the air. Asphalt absorbs this combination of intense light and oxygen, which causes the surface's chemical compounds to start deteriorating through oxidation.
Oxidation is the process of lighter oils in asphalt combining to form heavier oils, which weakens the asphalt and makes it more prone to cracking. Oxidation starts as soon as asphalt compounds encounter UV light and oxygen, but the process is slow, and signs of damage typically don't appear until the later stages.
Signs of UV Damage
Over time, UV damage will cause your asphalt parking lot to dry out and become brittle. This compromises the structural integrity of the surface and leads to a number of possible issues.
You may see cracks, chips, or entire sections of the surface breaking off. You may also notice warping or melting parts of asphalt; because a dark surface runs about 10 degrees hotter than the temperature of the air, the constant exposure to increased heat can further weaken asphalt.
How Sealcoating Protects Asphalt
Sealcoating is a way to seal your asphalt surfaces and protect them against harmful UV light. Sealcoat is a mixture of liquids and small particles like sand grains, which combine to form a layer that is applied over the top of an asphalt surface, where it dries and sets.
This coating prevents UV light from getting into the asphalt and triggering oxidation; it's also a waterproofing agent, reducing the depth to which water, oils, and other liquids can penetrate the surface. When you invest in a sealcoat, your parking lot can last for decades longer than it would without the protective barrier.
