Asphalt is widely used for driveways, parking lots, and roads because it’s durable, flexible, and cost-effective. However, one major challenge that affects asphalt over time is temperature change.
Whether it’s the scorching heat of summer or the freezing chill of winter, shifts in temperature can significantly impact the health of your asphalt surface.
Understanding how temperature changes affect asphalt can help you take the right preventive steps, saving time, money, and safety in the long run.
In this article, we’ll understand why temperature affects asphalt, the types of cracks it can cause, and how to prevent long-term damage.
How Does Temperature Affect Asphalt?
As temperatures fluctuate, asphalt faces continuous stress. Let’s break down how extreme heat and cold impact its structure and lead to common cracks.
Expansion in Heat
When temperatures rise, asphalt absorbs heat and expands. Asphalt is black in color, which means it retains heat more than other materials. This can soften the surface, making it more prone to wear, rutting, or deformation, especially in high-traffic areas.
Contraction in Cold
In contrast, when the temperature drops, asphalt contracts. This repeated shrinking and expanding puts stress on the surface, causing cracks to form. If these cracks go unnoticed or unrepaired, they can lead to serious pavement damage.
Types of Asphalt Cracks Caused by Temperature Changes
Temperature fluctuations can lead to different types of asphalt cracks. Let’s explore the most common ones:
1. Thermal Cracks
These cracks appear as straight lines across the pavement. They form when asphalt expands and contracts due to temperature changes, especially in regions with extreme seasonal shifts.
2. Block Cracks
Block cracks form a square or rectangular pattern and are usually due to an asphalt mix that has aged or become too brittle.
This often happens when the asphalt hasn’t been properly maintained, and temperature cycles weaken it over time.
3. Transverse Cracks
These cracks run perpendicular to the direction of traffic. They are mostly caused by low temperatures and shrinkage of the asphalt surface.
4. Longitudinal Cracks
Running parallel to the direction of traffic, these cracks can occur from a combination of temperature and load stress. They often start at joints where the asphalt layers meet.
What is the Freeze-Thaw Cycle and Why Is It Dangerous?
The freeze-thaw cycle happens when water trapped in asphalt cracks freezes and expands, then melts and contracts, causing serious damage to the surface over time.
The Science Behind It
In cold climates, asphalt cracks allow water to seep in. When the temperature drops below freezing, this trapped water turns into ice and expands. This expansion puts pressure on the surrounding asphalt, widening the crack.
When Ice Melts
As temperatures rise, the ice melts and leaves space behind. This space weakens the structure further. If this cycle continues, freeze, expand, melt, contract, it eventually leads to potholes and major surface failures.
Worse in Older Pavements
Older asphalt surfaces that have not been properly maintained are especially vulnerable to freeze-thaw damage. That’s why maintenance is key in colder regions.
Real-World Signs That Your Asphalt Is Temperature Damaged
Here are signs that your asphalt surface may be suffering from temperature-related stress:
- Visible cracking (especially after winter or a heatwave)
- Potholes forming in previously solid areas
- Fading or crumbling around the edges
- Water pooling in low spots (a sign of poor drainage)
- Weakened or soft patches in hot weather
How to Prevent Asphalt Cracks Caused by Temperature
To protect asphalt from temperature-related cracks, it’s important to follow preventive measures that maintain surface strength through seasonal changes.
1. Sealcoating
Sealcoating provides a protective barrier against heat, cold, and moisture. It should be applied every 2–3 years to keep your pavement flexible and shielded from temperature damage.
2. Crack Sealing
When cracks do form, sealing them immediately can prevent water from seeping in. Crack sealing is one of the most cost-effective ways to prolong the life of your asphalt.
3. Good Drainage Design
Poor drainage can make temperature effects worse. Water that lingers on the surface will find its way into cracks and joints, making freeze-thaw damage more likely.
4. Routine Maintenance and Inspection
Professional inspections can identify minor issues before they become major problems. Regular maintenance helps ensure small cracks don’t turn into costly repairs.
How Professional Asphalt Services Help
Professional asphalt services offer expert solutions for identifying, repairing, and preventing temperature-related damage, ensuring your pavement remains strong and long-lasting.
Accurate Damage Assessment
Trained professionals can identify the specific type of damage and recommend the most effective repair or maintenance solution.
For instance, they can differentiate between a thermal crack and a load-based one and fix it accordingly.
High-Quality Materials and Equipment
Experts use industrial-grade materials and tools to ensure long-lasting repairs. DIY methods may look fine initially but can fail quickly when exposed to weather.
Time and Cost Savings
Timely maintenance reduces the need for full resurfacing or complete replacement, which is far more expensive. Regular crack filling and sealcoating can extend the life of your asphalt by years.
The Importance of Acting Early
Temperature damage doesn’t always happen overnight. It starts small, with a tiny crack or soft spot, but can quickly escalate if ignored.
Taking action early ensures safety for pedestrians and vehicles, reduces repair costs, and enhances the overall appearance of your property.
Helpful Tips for Property Owners
Here are some easy and effective tips every property owner can follow to protect asphalt from weather damage
- Schedule sealcoating during mild weather (spring or fall).
- Don’t let snow or ice stay on the pavement for long—clear it regularly.
- Keep an eye on drainage after rain or snowmelt.
- Fix any small cracks as soon as they appear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should Asphalt Be Checked For Temperature-Related Cracks?
You should inspect your asphalt at least twice a year, once in spring and again in fall. These seasons follow extreme weather and are perfect for identifying damage.
Can High Temperatures Soften Asphalt?
Yes. In extreme heat, especially during summer, asphalt can soften and deform under pressure, particularly in high-traffic areas.
What’s The Best Time To Sealcoat Asphalt?
The best time to sealcoat is during moderate weather, ideally between 50°F and 90°F. Spring and early fall are great for this service.
What If My Asphalt Already Has Deep Cracks?
Deep or wide cracks should be evaluated by professionals. You might need a patch or resurfacing depending on the severity.
Does New Asphalt Resist Temperature Changes Better?
Yes. Freshly laid asphalt is more flexible and can better handle expansion and contraction. However, it still requires regular maintenance to stay that way.
Protect Your Asphalt Before It Cracks
Temperature changes, whether it’s intense summer heat or freezing winter cold, are one of the leading causes of asphalt cracks.
But the good news is, with proper maintenance, regular inspections, and timely repairs, you can protect your pavement and keep it looking strong and smooth year-round.
If you’re noticing any signs of damage, don’t wait. Contact a trusted asphalt maintenance company like Asphalt Coatings Company to schedule an inspection or maintenance today.
