Road noise is an ongoing issue in urban and rural areas across New Zealand, impacting residents and businesses alike. When tyres move over roads, vibrations and friction occur, creating sound waves. These vibrations can lead to high levels of noise, which can travel for long distances and affect nearby communities and businesses.
For those living near busy roads or working in high-traffic zones, these noises can disturb daily life, interfere with sleep, and affect overall well-being.
Fortunately, using asphalt on roads and driveways offers a solution to this issue by reducing the amount of road noise that escapes into surrounding environments.
In this article, we explore how asphalt works to reduce road noise and why asphalt remains a popular material choice for many public and private spaces.
How Asphalt Reduces Road Noise
Asphalt’s ability to reduce road noise is rooted in its material properties and the way it interacts with vehicle tyres. The flexibility and texture of asphalt help absorb sound waves rather than reflect them, which is a common issue with more rigid road materials like concrete. When vehicles pass over an asphalt driveway or road, the material absorbs much of the noise generated by the friction between tyres and the road.
In addition to its inherent flexibility, asphalt can be engineered with specific surface textures that reduce tyre friction and minimise noise. In the case of porous asphalt, it’s designed with interconnected air pockets that allow water and air to pass through, preventing water from pooling on the road surface. This design significantly reduces the noise generated by the tyres and improves safety during wet conditions. The air pockets in porous asphalt also help to reduce the high-frequency noise produced by tyres, which is often the most disruptive to nearby residents.
Another innovation is rubberised asphalt, which is made by mixing traditional asphalt with recycled rubber from used tyres. This type of asphalt reduces noise by absorbing sound and enhances the durability and performance of the road surface. The rubber helps dampen vibrations and sounds that would otherwise be transmitted through the asphalt, making it particularly effective in reducing road noise in high-traffic areas.
Impact of Weather on Asphalt
New Zealand’s diverse climate poses certain challenges for asphalt surfaces. Heavy rainfall, particularly in regions with frequent wet weather, can lead to water pooling on the road surface and may affect the performance of porous asphalt if proper drainage is not in place. Cold temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles in certain areas can cause cracking or surface damage to asphalt, potentially leading to increased road noise over time.
To combat these weather-related challenges, asphalt can be tailored to suit local climate conditions. Using weather-resistant additives and designing asphalt surfaces with proper drainage systems can ensure that the asphalt continues to perform effectively.
Applications in Residential Spaces
In residential areas, the use of asphalt can create quieter and more peaceful environments. As an alternative to traditional road surfaces, asphalt offers residents a respite from the constant hum of traffic.
Asphalt driveways can also contribute to reducing noise pollution. In areas where homes are located near high-traffic roads, using porous or rubberised asphalt for driveways helps absorb the sound generated by vehicles as they enter and leave the property. This can be particularly beneficial for families, especially those with young children or senior residents, who are more sensitive to noise disturbances. The quieting effect of asphalt extends beyond roads, offering quieter residential spaces that improve the overall quality of life.
Applications in Commercial Spaces
In commercial and industrial areas, the benefits of using asphalt are equally significant. For businesses located in busy districts or near major highways, quieter roads contribute to a more pleasant environment for employees and customers. Asphalt is particularly effective in retail zones, where a quieter atmosphere can enhance the shopping experience. Reduced road noise encourages customers to linger longer and creates a more comfortable environment for business activities.
Maintenance Requirements
To maintain its effectiveness, asphalt requires regular upkeep. Porous asphalt, for example, needs to be cleaned periodically to prevent the clogging of its air pockets, which could reduce its sound-absorbing properties. Keeping the surface clean and free from debris is also essential to ensure that it continues to perform as expected.
Additionally, asphalt surfaces should be inspected regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or ruts. These can increase road noise and compromise the surface’s functionality. As such, it’s best to conduct routine maintenance and prompt repairs to extend the lifespan of asphalt surfaces.
Asphalt plays a vital role in reducing road noise, providing an effective solution for both residential and commercial spaces in New Zealand. The material effectively absorbs sound, helping create quieter, more comfortable environments.
If you're looking to reduce road noise and enhance the comfort of your home or business, contact Asphalt Services for professional services. We also offer a free site assessment to help you understand how choosing asphalt as a surface material can improve your environment. Feel free to reach out to our team of professional asphalt contractors to learn more about your options and ensure you choose the best solution tailored to your specific needs.
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