How Groundwater Affects Asphalt

Ohio gets age, over 3 feet of rain per year. That is a large amount of water. That water needs to go somewhere. A good amount of it goes into the ground. Groundwater isn't generally an issue unless it is under the asphalt. 

Water Under The Asphalt

Water under the asphalt can cause many issues. When water gets into the subgrade, it compromises the structural integrity of the asphalt surface. The subgrade is a commonly used term for the stone and asphalt under the asphalt. When the subgrade is compromised, it will lead to premature damage to the asphalt. These issues can escalate when that water freezes.

Freezing & Thawing 

In Columbus, Ohio, we get some cold winters. When the ground freezes, it can freeze up to 3 feet into the ground. This will freeze any moisture in the subgrade. When water freezes, it expands. When water thaws, it contracts. This freezing and contracting can further weaken the structural integrity of the subgrade. When water freezes, it can expand and push up the asphalt pavement. This is why cracks and holes can seem to appear overnight. When the asphalt does this, it no longer can repel surface water. This water will leak into the subgrade and make the problem worse.

Washout Or Sinking

Washout and sinking can also be caused by water under the asphalt. These situations are typically a more extreme case. For there to be a washout, there has to be somewhere for the subgrade and water to go. Most of the time when there is a washout, for example, the water might be washing through a hole in the side of a failing catch basin or pipe. In these situations, the area where the washout is going needs to be dealt with as well as the the damage that is caused.

If you are concerned about your parking lot or you are experiencing any of these symptoms. Feel free to reach out to me and I can help diagnose the problem for you.