Spring storms can be unpredictable, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail. While most people think about storm damage in relation to their homes or vehicles, asphalt paving can also take a hit. Whether you own a home with a driveway or manage a business with a parking lot, understanding how storms affect asphalt can help you prevent long-term damage and costly repairs.

Residential Driveways: The Hidden Impact of Storms

Homeowners may not immediately notice how storms affect their asphalt driveways, but over time, the damage adds up.

• Water Penetration and Erosion – Heavy rain can seep into small cracks, washing away the base underneath the asphalt and leading to dips, cracks, or even potholes.
• Hail Damage – Large hailstones can chip away at the asphalt surface, making it more vulnerable to future damage.
• Drainage Issues – If water isn’t properly draining away, standing water can weaken the asphalt, accelerating deterioration.
• Weed Growth in Cracks – Storms can carry debris and seeds into small cracks, encouraging weed growth that further breaks apart the asphalt.

Commercial Parking Lots & Business Driveways: More Traffic, More Problems

Businesses with large asphalt surfaces, like parking lots and commercial driveways, face even greater risks from spring storms.

• Pothole Formation – When water gets into cracks and freezes overnight, it expands, leading to potholes. The weight of vehicles only makes the damage worse.
• Surface Weakening – Heavy storms can erode the asphalt binder, causing raveling, where small pieces of asphalt break away and create a rough, uneven surface.
• Striping and Sealcoat Wear – Hail and heavy rain can wear down parking lot striping and protective sealcoating, making it necessary to reapply sooner than expected.
• Liability Risks – Cracks, potholes, and standing water create hazards for vehicles and pedestrians. If left unaddressed, they could lead to accidents and liability issues.

Protecting Your Asphalt from Spring Storm Damage

• Sealcoat Regularly – A fresh sealcoat adds a protective layer to asphalt, helping it resist water penetration.
• Fix Cracks Early – Small cracks grow into big problems. Repairing them quickly prevents deeper damage.
• Improve Drainage – Ensuring proper runoff and drainage can prevent standing water and erosion.
• Schedule an Inspection – A professional assessment after a major storm can catch issues before they become costly repairs.

At R&R Paving, we help both homeowners and businesses keep their asphalt surfaces in top shape, no matter the season. If spring storms have impacted your driveway or parking lot, give us a call for a free inspection and expert repairs.

📞 Call us at (615) 824-6590
📍 Serving Nashville and Middle Tennessee

A little preventative maintenance now can save you from major asphalt headaches later!