Asphalt is an essential part of just about every business infrastructure out there. In fact, asphalt makes up more than 90% of all parking surfaces in America.
Those numbers don’t even begin to include other important paved areas such as private roadways or airport runways. In other words, asphalt is everywhere, and keeping it in good condition is essential to the success of our communities.
For businesses in Nevada, however, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to asphalt paving. Here’s what you need to know before racing out to hire a team of Nevada paving contractors.
Asphalt Paving in Nevada’s Desert Climate
Let’s start by talking about Nevada’s climate. Unlike other states, Nevada is made up of mostly desert. Because of its unique climate, asphalt paving in Nevada works differently than in other states.
What’s the Same in Nevada as Elsewhere?
Before we jump right into what’s different for an asphalt company in Nevada, let’s look at what’s the same.
In Nevada, just like in any other state, asphalt paving companies need to do ongoing repairs in order to keep roads and parking lots in good condition. That means providing asphalt patching services and crack repairs in addition to laying down base coats of asphalt.
Doing so extends the life of the surface and keeps it looking as good as new. It’s an important part of caring for the property.
What Specific Challenges Do Asphalt Paving Contractors Face in Nevada’s Climate?
Now that you know what’s the same about asphalt paving services in Nevada, let’s look at what’s different. Nevada paving companies face several challenges due to the climate of the area.
High Temperatures Damaging The Asphalt
In Nevada, the average temperature hovers at around 90ºF during the summer months. On top of that, there are roughly 294 sunny days a year.
With so much heat and sunshine, asphalt paving in Las Vegas and other parts of the state can heat up to record temperatures. Pavements can reach between 135ºF and 160ºF, which is hot enough to cause second or third-degree burns.
Because of these high temperatures, a Las Vegas pavement contractor has to be extremely careful when out on the job. Dangerous temperatures mean asphalt paving, and repairs must often happen in the off hours — early evening, night, or early morning — to avoid heat-related problems for workers as well as heat-related issues that could affect the integrity of the asphalt surface.
Excessive Sunshine Can Harm Asphalt
On top of that, excessive sunshine can cause asphalt to become brittle and crack. It can also cause fading on asphalt-covered lots and roads.
Because of the harsh sun and the toll it takes on paving, asphalt companies in Las Vegas have to do more crack sealing repairs, patching, and resurfacing than in other areas. Resurfacing acts as a “sunscreen” for the asphalt, covering it with a fresh layer of protective liquid binder and rock.
Harsh Winters
Most people don’t think of snow when they think of Nevada, but the state does get wintry weather from time to time.
Las Vegas roads will periodically get layers of ice due to low temperatures. When this happens, water can get into the roadway and expand as it freezes when this happens.
The pressure of the forming ice causes cracks and damages the foundations of the road. Nevada pavers have to look for any signs of cracks in the road to prevent this from happening.
Asphalt Maintenance in Nevada
Once property owners have the initial roadway or parking lot paved, they’ll need to think about ongoing maintenance. There are a few things that they can do to help keep asphalt paving in Nevada in good condition:
- Conduct regular inspections of paving and roadways
- Fix drainage issues so that precipitation doesn’t build up on asphalt surfaces
- Regularly sweep your pavement to remove damaging debris
- Remove ice promptly to prevent the melt-freeze cycle from damaging the road
- Sealcoat your roadway to protect it from the harsh sun
- Inspect and repair areas of the road with oil and fuel spills
Following these tips can help keep your pavement from suffering more damages. And, it can prevent issues from arising either in hot summers or on Las Vegas’ colder days.
Asphalt Grading and Excavating in Nevada
Grading and excavating are important parts of building asphalt roadways. As such, this guide wouldn’t be complete without discussing how these processes differ in Nevada!
Asphalt grading and excavating is a process in which old asphalt is removed from an area that is then reshaped to be filled with new asphalt.
In Nevada, the excavating process is crucial for building successful roadways and parking lots. Since water is so scarce, trees and shrubs will often grow their roots under roadways to reach even the smallest water sources.
Pavers then have to find ways to work around these roots or to remove them from the area in order to build the roadway.
In addition, grading is important for preventing corrosion. Since Nevada soil has so little water, it can easily erode. This can lead to problems in the completed asphalt roadway or parking lot.
Get Started With an Asphalt Company in Nevada Today
In Nevada, asphalt paving works differently than in other states. With this guide, it’s easy to understand how to responsibly manage your paved areas and ensure your asphalt is in good shape for years to come.
Are you ready to get started with a Nevada paving company? Morgan Pavement is one of the largest asphalt maintenance companies in the Intermountain West. Serving the states of Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and Idaho, we’re available to travel to you to make your next project a success. Request a bid today to get started!
