Asphalt is a popular material that is commonly used to pave roads, parking lots, driveways, walkways and more. One of its many attractions is its durability; if properly installed and maintained, asphalt can last 20 years or more. What is it that makes asphalt so durable? In our 30 years as an asphalt and concrete installer, Tucker Paving has mastered the science of asphalt durability. See the factors of asphalt pavement that make it a material that stands the test of time.

Factors That Contribute to Asphalt Durability

Asphalt is composed of aggregates like sand, gravel, or crushed stones mixed with bitumen; bitumen is a black, viscous petroleum-based material that holds the aggregates together. The mixture is laid down as pavement while it’s still wet and malleable. After it’s cured, or dried, the asphalt mixture creates a waterproof, flexible surface that can last decades if installed and maintained properly.

The factors make asphalt so durable:

  1. Flexibility. Asphalt is not rigid like concrete; it contracts and expands with cold and heat. This allows the asphalt pavement to absorb the stress of heavy traffic without cracking or sustaining damage.
  2. Bitumen Binder Composition. The bitumen binder in asphalt pavement is like a glue that holds everything together and acts as a waterproofer. The composition of the binder can be adjusted to fit the needs of the asphalt based on how it will be used. For instance, the binder composition of a driveway that will see the use of one or two vehicles will likely not be the same as the binder that will be used in a parking lot that will see heavy traffic every day.
  3. The Overall Mixture. Similarly, the overall mixture of the asphalt—the binder and the size and ratio of the aggregate—will also change depending on the pavement’s needs.
  4. Sealcoating. Sealcoating is a thin top layer that is added to asphalt pavement to help keep it waterproof, protect it from UV rays, and to also seal out dirt and debris. Sealcoating every few years significantly extends the life of any asphalt pavement.
  5. Maintenance. Asphalt pavement should also be maintained. Actions like keeping it free of dirt and debris, sealing cracks, fixing damages, and completing sealcoating will help to protect the surface and extend the life of your asphalt pavement.