A recent report states that 43 percent of America's public roadways are in poor or mediocre condition. Asphalt and tarmac are typically long-lasting and tough against the worst conditions. But what exactly has caused this major decline in our great country's road system?
Many things can lead to potholes, cracks,
collapses, and generally damaged roads. Continue reading to learn more about
the most common causes of road damage.
Weather
Throughout the states, there is
quite a variation in climate. Certain areas receive harsh weather conditions
that can lead to pavement damage.
The materials used to create
roadways can shrink and expand in hot and cold temperatures. The effects are
potholes, cracks, and other deformations.
Heavy exposure to rain or water also
causes damaged pavement. Over time, the water can seep into the base layer and
cause depressions. Damage at the base layer often leads to continuous problems
until the road is completely repaved
On the other hand, lots of sunlight
can cause the binder materials to dissolve. The damage from the ultraviolet rays
can cause the road to becoming uneven and more gravel-like. It will need to be
repaved as necessary.
Road
Salt
While snow and ice can lead to their
own issues, the solution to those can also cause damage. Road salt
is commonly used to prevent the build-up of ice and protect drivers. The effect
isn't just safer roadways.
Road salt is corrosive to roads and
vehicles. It's also causing major issues with our environment.
Heavy
Use
On average, an American will drive 13,500 miles per year. There are some states and urban areas that receive a much
higher percentage of this traffic than others.
Consistent stress from heavier
vehicles can is one of the top pothole causes. Cracks in the road are also
common when under so much pressure.
Oxidation
As roads age, they go from a deep
black color to a lighter grey. This is because of their exposure to oxygen. You
are watching the roadway materials break down. When the materials break down
the road becomes less flexible.
Unfortunately, there isn't much to
be done about this other than resurfacing the road as needed.
Earth
Regardless of how it feels, the
Earth is constantly changing and moving beneath us because of tectonic plates.
Earthquakes and other natural occurrences can shift the soil causing roads to
become damaged with cracks, collapses, and sinkholes.
Oil
and Debris
Vehicles can sometimes leak oil
which then seeps into the roadway and damages the materials. Other debris can
cause certain damage as well. It's beneficial to keep the roadways as clear as
possible with a vacuum sweep like the elgin whirlwind1.
Dealing
with Road Damage
Most of these common causes of road
damage are simply unavoidable. But that is no excuse for the roads to sit in
disarray. To continue to protect our roadways, they need to have the proper
maintenance and repairs as needed.
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