Most people think asphalt installation hardly ever intersects with plumbing, but in reality, they are closely intertwined. Proper drainage design is crucial for the long-term durability and functionality of asphalt surfaces, and it’s an important consideration during asphalt driveway installation or maintenance. Just like how plumbing prevents water from damaging your home, effective drainage ensures that water flows away from the asphalt surface rather than seeping into it.
It’s important for property owners who want to install or refresh their asphalt driveways to understand why these projects need proper plumbing. If you’re planning to undertake the same upgrades on your commercial or residential property, our team at Asphalt Services can provide you with several reasons why good drainage is essential for every asphalt project.
It Prevents Water Pooling and Slippery Surfaces
One of the most visible benefits of effective drainage is that it prevents water from pooling on your asphalt surface. When water collects in depressions, it makes the surface slippery and creates hazards for both pedestrians and vehicles. This is especially risky in areas with heavy foot traffic or high-speed vehicles.
Aside from making surfaces unsafe, pooling water can also weaken the asphalt over time and accelerate its natural rate of wear and tear. By prioritising a drainage design that directs water away from the surface, you can keep your asphalt driveway dry, safe, and suitable for all kinds of usage.
It Reduces Asphalt Deterioration
That said, water can be incredibly destructive to asphalt when it’s left to sit or seep into the surface. This is because when water penetrates asphalt, it can break down the binding agents in the material and create voids within the structure. These voids cause the asphalt to lose its structural integrity and lead to the formation of cracks and potholes. Eventually, these can cause the structural failure of the material.
Effective drainage prevents water from reaching the asphalt’s inner layers. This,
in turn, allows the surface to retain its strength and resilience for much longer. In many ways, proper drainage is like giving your asphalt an extra layer of protection against the elements and ensuring it holds up against changing weather and heavy traffic.
It Minimises Freeze-Thaw Damage
In climates with fluctuating temperatures, trapped water can freeze and expand. These changes can cause cracks and fissures in the asphalt. The freeze-thaw cycle is particularly damaging to asphalt surfaces, as it weakens them from the inside out.
When proper drainage is in place, water flows away before it has the chance to freeze within the asphalt. This helps reduce the impact of freeze-thaw damage. Aside from keeping water away, effective drainage reduces the likelihood of these temperature-related issues and helps preserve the look and integrity of the asphalt.
It Enhances the Asphalt’s Load-Bearing Capacity
Asphalt’s ability to support weight without cracking is directly affected by how well it drains. When water seeps into asphalt and saturates it, the material weakens and becomes more vulnerable to the weight of vehicles and foot traffic. Proper drainage helps keep the asphalt firm and able to carry heavy loads without breaking down or sinking. For areas that regularly experience high traffic, such as driveways or vehicle crossings, this increased load-bearing capacity is essential for maintaining a durable and long-lasting surface. Simply put, well-drained asphalt can take more weight and pressure without giving way.
Proper Plumbing Prevents Subgrade Erosion
The subgrade, or the layer of material beneath your asphalt, provides essential support for the surface. When water isn’t effectively drained, it can reach this foundational layer and cause erosion. Once the subgrade begins to erode, the asphalt loses its stability, which can lead to sinking and surface collapse. Proper drainage keeps water away from the subgrade and contributes to protecting this critical layer, thereby playing an important role in maintaining a stable foundation for your asphalt.
It Offers Environmental Benefits and Contributes to Responsible Water Management
Beyond protecting your asphalt, good drainage also has environmental benefits. Effective drainage systems can direct water away from hard surfaces into environmentally friendly systems, such as rain gardens, permeable areas, or water catchment systems. This practice not only reduces harmful runoff as well as helps the local ecosystem by redirecting water where it’s needed.
Proper drainage in asphalt installation is an essential factor for creating a durable, safe, and attractive surface. When planning your project, then look for a trusted Dunedin-based asphalt paving contractor or vehicle crossings specialist like Asphalt Services that recognises the importance of drainage and incorporates it into their installation and maintenance approach.
Allow our team to take care of the job so you can protect your investment and maintain the quality and appearance of your property for years to come. Call us today to get a free site assessment.
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