When your tires grip fresh asphalt for a steady and reliable ride. Over time, however, pavement changes. Those once-grippy surfaces can develop shiny, slick patches that make braking and turning less secure. At Frank Harrison Paving, we’ve seen this happen on driveways, parking lots, and even busy streets. As an asphalt paving company with decades of asphalt road construction experience, our paving contractors have repaired countless surfaces showing these signs of wear. Here’s why it happens and what you can do about it.
Aggregate Polishing from Constant Traffic
Heavy traffic gradually wears down the rough texture of the aggregate in asphalt. Tires act like sandpaper, smoothing the stone and pushing down the binder until it takes on a polished finish. This might look harmless, but it reduces traction for vehicles, especially in wet weather.
Oil and Fuel Stains Breaking Down the Surface
When oil, diesel, or gasoline spill onto asphalt, the chemicals dissolve the binder that holds the aggregate together. Over time, the damaged binder can’t grip the aggregate as well, leaving a smooth, reflective surface that worsens with continued exposure.
Binder Aging and Oxidation
Sunlight and oxygen slowly harden asphalt binder, causing it to lose flexibility. As it becomes brittle, the surface can wear faster, leading to flat, slick spots where the aggregate has loosened or worn away. This aging process is a natural part of asphalt’s life cycle but can be slowed with proper asphalt repair and seal coating.
Poor Drainage Leading to Polished Surfaces
Standing water accelerates wear by washing away fine particles and grinding dirt into the asphalt with every vehicle pass. The result is a smoother surface that reflects light and loses its texture. Correct drainage design during asphalt road construction prevents this type of damage.
If the asphalt mix has too much binder or isn’t compacted correctly during installation, the surface can become slick much faster. In these cases, the problem often appears within just a few years. Working with experienced paving contractors is key to avoiding this issue.
By addressing the causes early, you can extend the life of your pavement and keep tires gripping the way they should. Frank Harrison Paving is here to provide asphalt repair solutions that keep surfaces safe, whether you need help with a driveway, parking lot, or roadway.