Located in Central Florida, Tucker Paving is a company well-acquainted with the destructive power of hurricanes. You might not think that such a storm can do much damage to the ground itself, but if you have asphalt pavement on the ground, there are some things you need to know.
How Hurricanes Can Affect Asphalt
If you’re a resident of Florida, we probably don’t need to tell you that even a low-grade hurricane can pack a massive punch. While you may be thinking primarily of the damage caused by gale-force winds, don’t forget that those winds blow in some serious rainfall – and that often means flooding.
Floodwaters are a serious concern for an asphalt surface. At Tucker Paving, we can’t count the number of jobs we’ve been called to after flooding decimated an asphalt parking lot or roadway. Water intrusion is a major cause of potholes.
Erosion from rain and flash floods can wash away everything from cars to sections of the road itself. Excessive rain can weaken the subgrade and foundations under asphalt pavement, and without that firm foundation the surface pavement is easily swept away by rushing floodwaters.
Clogged storm drains, fallen trees, and other debris can trap water where it’s least wanted – including on your asphalt surface. The longer the water sits there, the more erosion and intrusion that can take place, leading to permanent damage to the pavement. It’s best to get the cleanup started as soon as it’s safely possible after a storm.
Safety First, Then Call Tucker Paving
Unfortunately, there’s not a lot that can be done to prevent the devastation of a major weather event like a hurricane. Please don’t go into flooded or otherwise compromised areas until given the go-ahead by authorities. Once you do get a chance to start the cleanup and survey the damage, remember that Tucker Paving has plenty of experience picking up the pieces (of asphalt) after these types of catastrophes.
