Asphalt is widely used for roads, driveways, car parks, and hardstands across Australia due to its flexibility, cost-efficiency, and durability. However, even the best-laid asphalt won’t last forever without proper maintenance. At Bendigo Road Tech, we specialise in delivering long-lasting asphalt and bitumen surfacing throughout Bendigo, VIC—and part of that service is helping our clients understand what causes asphalt to fail so they can take steps to prevent it.
Below, we outline the top causes of asphalt deterioration and what you can do to protect your surfaces.
Water Infiltration
Water is the single most damaging element for asphalt. When moisture seeps through cracks, it begins to erode the underlying base layers. This weakens the structural integrity of the surface and leads to issues like potholes and surface collapse.
- Poor drainage accelerates the process
- Freeze-thaw cycles (in cooler regions) worsen cracking
- Sealcoating can help prevent early water damage
Oxidation from Sun Exposure
Asphalt is made with bitumen, a petroleum-based binder that holds the aggregate together. Prolonged UV exposure causes the bitumen to oxidise, making the surface brittle and more susceptible to cracking.
- Surface may fade from rich black to grey
- Loss of flexibility increases the chance of cracking
- Regular resurfacing and protective coatings help combat UV damage
Heavy Vehicle Traffic
The constant pressure from heavy vehicles, especially on commercial and industrial sites, is a major factor in the breakdown of asphalt.
- Repetitive loading causes fatigue cracking
- Surfaces that aren’t properly engineered for weight can deform
- Load-specific designs and reinforcement can prevent early failure
Poor Subgrade Preparation
Even the highest-quality asphalt won’t perform well if the sub-base wasn’t properly prepared. Inadequate compaction, insufficient base material, or subgrade moisture issues can lead to rapid surface failure.
- Sinking and rutting indicate sub-base issues
- Asphalt overlays may not be effective without subgrade correction
- Site-specific assessments help identify potential problems before surfacing
Tree Roots and Vegetation
Nearby trees and root systems can exert upward pressure on asphalt, lifting and cracking it from below. Weeds can also grow through small cracks and expand them over time.
- Cracks allow more water in, compounding damage
- Root intrusion creates uneven, hazardous surfaces
- Edging and regular trimming can help control this issue
Chemical Spills and Oil Leaks
Petrol, oil, and other chemicals can degrade the asphalt binder, leading to soft spots and surface breakdown.
- Car parks and service stations are most at risk
- Contaminants break the bond between binder and aggregate
- Regular cleaning and spot repairs are essential in high-risk areas
Lack of Maintenance
Even a well-constructed surface needs regular attention. Ignoring small cracks, drainage issues, or oil stains can lead to more extensive (and expensive) damage over time.
- Small cracks widen and deepen
- Potholes form and multiply quickly
- Preventative maintenance extends service life and reduces cost
Conclusion
Understanding the main causes of asphalt deterioration is key to protecting your investment and maintaining safe, reliable surfaces. Whether it’s water damage, UV degradation, or structural failure, early detection and timely intervention are crucial.
At Bendigo Road Tech, we work with property owners and site managers across Bendigo, VIC to deliver high-performance asphalt and bitumen solutions tailored to their site conditions. If your surface is starting to show signs of wear—or you’d like to prevent issues before they start—get in touch with Bendigo Road Tech for a professional assessment and tailored maintenance plan.
Call us on: 03 5609 3573
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