Ever wonder why asphalt holds up differently in the Sunshine State? We have answers!

Asphalt is everywhere in Florida—roads, parking lots, driveways, and more—and it comes into frequent contact with another of Florida’s abundant features…lots of sunshine! The Sunshine State’s overabundance of sunny days means there’s a lot more UV rays beating down on the asphalt here. With over 30 years in the asphalt and concrete paving industry in Central Florida, Tucker Paving has seen first hand what the state’s intense sunshine can do to asphalt pavement. Explore the science behind why asphalt oxidizes faster here, and what you can do about it to keep your asphalt pavement in tip-top shape for as long as possible!

The Sun and Asphalt

Florida’s intense sunshine delivers powerful UV radiation; UV rays are the reason why you’ll get sunburned if you don’t take protective measures like applying sunscreen or wearing UV-blocking clothing. In the same way, UV rays also affect asphalt.

UV—short for ultraviolet—radiation is a normal part of the sun’s output, and it’s comprised of a form of electromagnetic energy that cannot be seen by the naked eye. Just like UV radiation can burn our skin, it also affects asphalt pavement by increasing the oxidation of asphalt. Oxidation is a chemical reaction involving oxygen that breaks down the bitumen asphalt binder.

Oxidation of asphalt can lead to:

  • Hard and brittle asphalt that is less flexible.
  • Asphalt that is more prone to cracking.
  • Asphalt that is faded and gray.
  • Asphalt that is unable to withstand traffic.
  • The deterioration of the surface of the asphalt, including cracking and raveling.
  • An asphalt pavement that ages faster than it should.

 Protecting Asphalt from UV Radiation

The best way to protect asphalt pavement from the dangers of oxidation caused by UV radiation from the hot Florida sun is to ensure that the asphalt pavement is sealcoated every three to five years. Sealcoating is process where an asphalt emulsion or other protective layer is applied to the top of the existing asphalt pavement.

Sealcoating not only protects asphalt pavement from the sun’s UV rays; it also protects your asphalt from water, dirt, and spills from automotive oils and chemicals. It also returns the asphalt to the dark black color it was when it was new. All in all, sealcoating protects asphalt pavement from the elements and extends the life of the asphalt pavement.

Tucker Paving has over 30 years of experience in the concrete and asphalt paving construction industry, and we offer asphalt and concrete repair and replacement and more. Call us at (863) 299-2262, or contact us online, for your next project!