Living off the beaten path sometimes means living off the paved road network. Before you consider this a charming and rustic feature, however, consider the true cost of unpaved roads, driveways and parking lots.
Mud contains moisture which, if left on your vehicle, causes rust. Dirt and mud cause water to stick to your vehicle, and on dirt roads it can be difficult to tell how deep puddles are. Quality pavement prevents damage to your vehicle’s undercarriage.
Dust, sand, and dirt are all words for soil, and soil is made of tiny particles of rock. Over time, soil acts as an abrasive against exposed car parts, including your braking system and suspension. The vehicle frame can also sustain damage in this way, not to mention the paint. Gravel can fly up and scratch or chip vehicles, while dust poses a hazard by reducing visibility.
Water that sits on the road isn’t just water, it’s runoff, and that means it likely contains chemicals that can dissolve paint or corrode metal. Pavement isn’t just a surface, it’s a system that redirects water and includes drainage systems.
In residential areas, safety features like speed bumps and islands are preferable to the slowing effect of rutted, rocky roads. In parking lots, it’s easier to direct traffic flow and designate spaces on pavement. If you own a business or residential development, don’t try to cut costs by skimping on pavement. Your investment will increase your property’s value and attract drivers who want to keep their vehicles in excellent shape.
For expert asphalt paving and repair services in Arizona and Utah, contact Morgan Pavement today.
