Protecting Your Asphalt from Summer Sun Damage

Protecting Your Asphalt from Summer Sun Damage

Your skin actually isn’t the only thing vulnerable to damage from the sun’s harsh UV rays. Believe it or not, your asphalt driveway can also suffer damage due to the sun’s strength in the summer. From cracking and potholes to fading, there are many ways that the sun might hurt your driveway, but there are also simple protective measures you can take to ensure your driveway still looks and functions great when autumn rolls around.

Why Is Your Asphalt At Risk During the Summer?

Your asphalt driveway is not impervious to heat, so as the temperature rises in the summer,  your driveway heats up as well. If the asphalt becomes too hot, it softens slightly and incurs damage much easier. Soft asphalt can be scratched, punctured, sunk, and broken without much effort, which means that heavy vehicle traffic, the use of jacks and tools, and other pressure can cause damage to develop. Of course, UV radiation also degrades the surface of asphalt just like it burns your skin.

The Best Protection Measures

The first way to protect your driveway is to remain on alert for damage and repair it right away. If you detect a crack or hole, fill it immediately to prevent the damage from spreading and become infinitely worse. You might be able to do this yourself, or you can call in an expert like Jireh Construction in Seattle, Washington to handle it for you with precision.

You can also ask Jireh Construction to seal your driveway. This process, known as sealcoating, is an incredibly valuable “driveway treatment” that provides a buffer between your asphalt and the many elements constantly placing pressure on your driveway, like sun, rain, and vehicles. The sealcoating will keep your asphalt shielded from heat and UV rays while also covering small cracks and improving the overall aesthetic appeal of your space.

To make sure your driveway is primed and ready to handle the summer heat, give Jireh Construction a call at (425) 678-3632 for a free quote. With the help of the experts at Jireh Construction, you can preserve the appearance and function of your driveway for many summers to come.