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You are currently viewing Dreadful Mistakes Folks Make With Asphalt Sealcoating

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Have you ever seen a black, oily film on the asphalt driveway of a home or commercial property? If so, that film is most likely an accumulation of pollutants and oils that have seeped into the pavement over time. Left untreated, this film can lead to unsightly staining and even damage to the underlying asphalt. But fear not – proper asphalt sealcoating can help protect your driveway from these damages and keep it looking its best for years to come!

Keep reading this blog post by Scorpion Construction LLC for a closer look at some of the most common mistakes folks make with their asphalt sealcoating projects and tips on how to avoid them.

Asphalt Sealcoating Blunders to Avoid!

1. Applying the Sealer Too Thick

One of the most dreadful mistakes people make when it comes to asphalt sealcoating is applying the material too thick. Now, you might be thinking, “What’s wrong with putting on a little extra protection?” Well, for starters, too much sealer can actually end up cracking and peeling off in large pieces, leaving your asphalt susceptible to all sorts of damage. Not to mention, a thick layer of sealer will take forever to dry – meaning you will be stuck inside while the stench of fumes lingers.

The moral of the story is? When it comes to sealcoating, always err on caution and apply a thin, even layer.

2. Using the Wrong Sealer

Another sinful mistake people make is using the wrong type of sealer for their climate. There are two different sealers on the market – asphalt-based and coal tar-based. Asphalt-based sealers are designed for hot climates, while coal tar-based sealers work best in cold weather. If you use the wrong sealer, it won’t adhere properly to your asphalt and will start to peel off within a few short months.

3. Not Applying a Second Coat

If you want your sealcoating to last, you need to apply at least two coats. The first coat should be applied when the temperature is above 60 degrees Fahrenheit and there’s no chance of rain in the forecast. Once the first coat has dried, usually within 24 hours, you can apply the second coat.

4. Not Allowing the Sealer to Cure

After applying the sealer, it’s essential to let it cure properly. This means keeping traffic off the sealed surface for at least 24 hours, or longer if possible. If you don’t let the sealer cure, it won’t have a chance to set properly and will start to wear away quickly.

5. Applying the Sealer in Direct Sunlight

If you apply the sealer in direct sunlight, it will start to cure too quickly and will result in a poor bond between the sealer and the asphalt. This can cause the sealer to peel and flake off, leaving your asphalt unprotected.

6. Not Hiring a Professional

Lastly, one of the people’s biggest mistakes is not hiring a professional to do the job. Asphalt sealcoating is not a DIY project. It requires special tools, equipment, and training to do it properly. Hiring a professional paver will ensure that the job is done right and will last for years.

Here’s How Scorpions Can Help You!

Hiring a professional to handle your asphalt sealcoating needs is always the best decision. Here at Scorpion Construction LLC, we have the experience and training needed to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Looking for an asphalt paving company in Clearwater, FLContact us today to learn more about our services or schedule a free consultation.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

You are currently viewing Underground Utilities: Getting The Color Codes Right

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Excavating without knowing the location of underground utilities can be extremely dangerous. Not only can you cause damage to the utility, but you can also injure or even kill someone working on or near the utility. It’s essential to know the underground utilities’ color codes to save the lives and cables while you’re digging. Scorpion Construction LLC will discuss the color codes used for underground utilities and how to excavate around them safely.

Managing Potential Risk in an Excavation Project

Did you know that in the United States, there are more than 20 million miles of underground utility lines? That’s a lot of buried infrastructure! And if you’re planning excavation work, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks involved. One of the most significant risks is damaging or disrupting an underground utility line. It can cause costly repairs, service disruptions, and even injuries or fatalities. That’s why it’s so important to call for a professional utility locator before beginning an excavation project. A professional locator will use special equipment to mark the approximate location of any underground utilities in the area.

If your project involves excavating, be sure to understand the color codes used to identify different types of underground utilities. It will help ensure that you safely excavate around them.

Different Color Codes for Underground Utilities

There are a few different color codes used for underground utilities. The most common one is the ANSI/NEMA Z535 standard, which uses different colors to represent different types of utilities. It’s important to know what each color means so that you can safely excavate around the utility. Following the color-coding system is essential once the utilities are known and marked. The most common color codes are listed below:

Red: Electric power lines, conduit, and lighting cables

Yellow: Gas, oil, steam, petroleum, or other flammable liquids

Orange: Communication lines or cable conduits

Blue: Potable water

Green: Sewers and drain lines

Purple: Reclaimed water, irrigation, and slurry lines

Pink: Temporary survey markings

Brown: Undetermined utilities

As you can see, there are a lot of potential risks involved in excavating without first calling for a professional utility locator.

Knowing the Depth of the Utilities

Another thing to keep in mind when excavating is the depth of the utility. Some utilities are shallow enough that you can dig by hand, while others may require heavy machinery. Also, check the depth of the utility before beginning any excavation work.

If you’re ever unsure about the depth or location, you can always call the utility company to help mark the lines for you. It is even more crucial if you plan to do any major excavation work.

Safety is always the top priority when working around underground utilities. If you take the time to survey the area properly and know where the utilities are located, you can help prevent accidents and costly damage to the utilities.

Ending Note

It is essential to know which colors represent which type of utility for safe excavating. Contact Scorpion Construction LLC serving Lakeland, FL, and get a free estimate if you need excavation services. We’ll ensure that your job is done safely and efficiently without damaging any underground utilities.

You are currently viewing 5 Problems Of DIY Interlocking Concrete Pavers: Let’s Fix The Mess

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Concrete pavers have become increasingly popular over the years. They are a great way to add value to your home, and they are relatively easy to install.

In this blog post, Scorpion Construction LLC will discuss the most common problems with DIY interlocking concrete pavers for driveways, and we will offer solutions for each one of them!

Problem #01: Not Calculating the Right Amount of Pavers

One of the most common problems with DIY interlocking concrete pavers is not calculating the right amount of pavers. This is a problem because if you don’t have enough pavers, you won’t be able to complete the project.

Problem #02: Not Planning for Excavation

Another common problem with DIY interlocking concrete pavers is not planning for excavation. This is a problem because your pavers will not be level if you don’t excavate the area properly. This can cause your pavers to crack or break over time. Excavate the area to a depth of at least six inches.

Problem #03: Not Using a Level

Another common problem with DIY interlocking concrete pavers is not using a level. If your pavers are not leveled, they will eventually shift and settle unevenly.

Whether installing concrete pavers for patios or driveways, not using a level can lead to poor completion.

Problem #04: Not Compacting the Soil

Not compacting the soil can cause your pavers to sink and settle unevenly over time. You can avoid this by a tamper or compactor to compact the soil before installing your concrete pavers for patios or driveways.

Problem #05: Not Sealing the Pavers

Not sealing the interlocking concrete pavers can cause staining and fading and an increase in wear and tear. To avoid this problem, seal your pavers after they have been installed.

How to Maintain Concrete Pavers?

Concrete pavers are a durable & attractive option for walkways, driveways, and patios. We have discussed a few tips for keeping your pavers looking their best:

General Cleaning: For a deeper clean, you can power wash your pavers with a garden hose outfitted with a high-pressure nozzle. You can also use a pressure washer, but be careful not to damage the pavers with the high-powered stream of water.

Stain Remover: If you have pavers stained with grease, oil, or rust, you can use a commercial paver cleaner to remove the stains.

Mildew Removal: Pavers in shady areas may develop mildew over time. This can be removed with a mildew-killing cleaner or a solution of bleach and water.

Scorpion Construction LLC in Clearwater, Florida, offers concrete paving that will last for decades. Our concrete pavers for patios are perfect for creating an outdoor oasis, and our interlocking concrete pavers for driveways are tough enough to stand up to even the heaviest traffic. Our paving products come in various colors and styles to match any home décor. So if you’re looking for quality paving that will add beauty and value to your home, call us today!

Get your free estimate now!

You are currently viewing 7 Signs Your Underground Water Utilities Might Be Compromised: What To Look For?

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You probably don’t think much about your underground water utilities unless there’s a problem. And even then, you might not know what to look for. But just because you can’t see them, it doesn’t mean they’re not necessary – your underground water infrastructure is an essential part of your property.

So what do you do if you think your underground water infrastructure might be compromised? Here are seven signs that might indicate a problem. Keep an eye out for them, and if you see any of them, call a professional company like Scorpion Construction LLC immediately!

If your water bill is unexpectedly higher than usual:

A sudden spike in your water bill could be a sign that there is a leak somewhere in your underground water infrastructure. If you see a sudden increase, call a professional to come and check it out.

If there is water pooling in your yard:

If you notice water pooling on your lawn, especially if it hasn’t rained recently, that is a sign that there could be a leak in your underground water infrastructure. If you see this, call a professional right away.

This standing water might lead to sinkholes and is an indication that there is a severe water line problem.

If your grass is greener in some spots:

If your grass is greener in some spots, it could signify that water is leaking from a pipe. It is especially true if the green patches are in areas with no sprinkler coverage.

If you hear water running when there should be none:

If you hear water rushing when there shouldn’t be any, it’s a sign that there is a leak somewhere. It is especially true if you hear it at night or when your property is empty.

If you get cloudy or discolored water:

If you get cloudy or discolored water, it could mean that rust or soil seeping through cracks in the piping is reaching your water supply. If this happens, contact a professional right away.

If the water smells bad:

If the water starts to smell bad, it could be a sign of bacteria in the water. This is a serious situation that needs to be addressed immediately.

If your Water Pressure is low:

If your water pressure is down, there could be a leak in your line. It may be a significant problem if your water pressure is really low. If the issue is severe, you may need to call a professional.

Conclusion:

So, what should you do if you’re in St. Petersburg, FL, and you think your underground water utilities have been compromised? The first step is to call Scorpion Construction LLC

We offer free estimates so we can come to take a look and let you know what the situation is. We can work with you to develop a plan of action to get your water flowing safely and securely again as soon as possible. 

Have you had any experience with underground water utility issues? Contact us to discuss!

You are currently viewing Reinforced Concrete Flatwork Failure – Causes & Remediation

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As a property or business owner, you know that the concrete flatwork on your site is essential. It makes a visual statement, but it also plays an essential role in the stability and functionality of your property. It can be expensive and time-taking to repair when something goes wrong with your concrete flatwork – whether it’s a small crack or a full-blown failure. Scorpion Construction LLC will discuss everything you need to know about reinforced concrete flatwork failure: what causes it and how to identify and remediate it. We hope this will help you keep your property in top condition!

Reinforced Concrete Flatwork

Reinforced concrete flatwork comprises a concrete slab with steel reinforcement bars or rebar. The rebar helps to strengthen the concrete and prevent cracking. However, if the rebar isn’t properly placed or secured, it can cause the concrete to crack and fail. Reinforced concrete flatwork is a common building material, but it can be prone to failure if it’s not properly constructed or maintained. Failure can be any damage or deterioration that impairs the function or structural integrity of the concrete. There are several ways to reinforce concrete flatwork, including:

-Adding reinforcement bars or rebar

-Using wire mesh

-Applying fiber reinforcement

Causes of Reinforced Concrete Flatwork Failure

Failure can be caused by:

-Improper design or construction, such as using too little reinforcement or not properly connecting the support to the concrete

-Excessive loads on the concrete, such as from vehicles or heavy machinery

-Poor quality materials, such as using substandard cement or aggregate

-Environmental conditions, such as freeze-thaw cycles or exposure to chemicals

-Improper curing

-Poor drainage

Whatever the cause, reinforced concrete flatwork failure can lead to various problems, including cracks, spalling, and complete collapse. It’s essential to know the potential dangers so that you can take steps to prevent them. You can keep your property in good condition by understanding the causes and remedies for reinforced concrete flatwork failure.

Remediation to Reinforced Concrete Flatwork Failure

Each method has its risks and rewards, so choosing the right one for your project is essential. If you’re already dealing with reinforced concrete flatwork failure, there are a few remediation options available, including:

-Replacing damaged sections

-Applying a coating or sealant

-Installing drainage systems

Ending Note

The best remedy will vary according to the severity of the damage and the cause of the failure. Working with an expert can ensure that your repairs are effective and long-lasting. If you suspect that your concrete flatwork has failed, have it inspected by our qualified professional as soon as possible. Our team at Scorpion Construction LLC, serving Clearwater, FL, will be able to identify the cause of the failure and recommend the best course of action for remediation. In some cases, repairs can be made to salvage the existing concrete; in others, a total replacement may be necessary.

You are currently viewing Get Your Parking Lot Or Driveway Sealcoated: 5 Reasons Why

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Sealcoating a parking lot or driveway is one of the most important – and often overlooked – aspects of property maintenance. Believe it or not, it says a lot about you and your property. Asphalt maintenance should be a priority for an asphalt parking lot or driveway. After all, your investment needs to last.

And sealcoating is a cost-effective way to protect your investment. This is where someone like Scorpion Construction LLC can come in to help you with your asphalt needs.

What is Sealcoating?

Sealcoating involves adding a protective layer to asphalt surfaces to extend their life and prevent damage from traffic, weathering, UV rays, and other environmental factors. By regularly sealcoating your asphalt surfaces, you can significantly protect them from the elements and extend their lifespan.

Still not convinced? Read on for five more reasons why sealcoating is a smart move.

Beautification

Sealcoating doesn’t just give your parking lot or driveway a smooth surface; it uplifts and beautifies your property. The natural shine of the asphalt fades with wear and tear. A freshly sealcoated asphalt surface has a deep, rich black color that makes it look new. Your asphalt surfaces will be protected, but they’ll also add curb appeal to your property!

If you are a parking lot owner, this is an added advantage to attract customers. No one wants to park their car in a parking lot with potholes, cracks, and fading striping.

Protection from the Elements

Sealcoating protects asphalt surfaces from the elements. It forms a barrier against rain, snow, ice, UV rays, and even oil and gas. These elements are known to deteriorate the asphalt. Sealcoating provides an additional layer of protection to slow down the deterioration process. This means that your asphalt will stay looking new for longer and be less susceptible to damage from the weather.

Easy Maintenance

Sealcoating provides that beautiful sheen and smooth surface. Your surfaces become easy to maintain. All you have to do is sweep and hose them off regularly. This will keep them looking clean and new for longer while adding to the aesthetics of your property and even your neighborhood.

Easy on the Wallet

When asphalt is regularly sealcoated, it becomes more resistant to damage. This means that you won’t have to repair the cracks or potholes that can get costly continuously. Sealcoating is an expense for every 2 to 3 years, but it is cheaper than letting your asphalt deteriorate and completely replacing it.

Increased Life Span

Sealcoating asphalt surfaces mean longevity of your asphalt surface. You can get more years of use and enjoyment from your asphalt surface before needing to replace it.

Solution or Prevention?

We want to highlight that sealcoating is a preventive measure, not a solution for repairing cracks and potholes. Any improper use of the sealcoating process may lead to loss and damage to you and your property.

With more than 34 years of experience paving roads, parking lots, and driveways in St. Petersburg, Scorpion Construction LLC is a one-stop-shop for all your asphalt needs, including asphalt maintenance. Contact us today for a no-obligation, free estimate!

You are currently viewing Parking Lots – 4 Important Elements To Keep In Mind During Construction

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As a business owner, you know the significance of your parking lot; it is an essential element of any business. Not only do they provide a space for customers and employees to park their vehicles, but they also play a role in the first impression that potential customers form of your company. When it comes time for construction on your parking lot, there are four elements you need to keep in mind: curbing and gutters, asphalt paving, traffic control, and asphalt maintenanceScorpion Construction LLC will discuss each of these elements in detail and tell you how to ensure that your pavement is up to par with the competition!

1. Curbing & Gutters

If you want to add curbing and gutters to your parking lot, it is best to do this before installing the asphalt or concrete. Curbing can help define the edges of your lot, and gutters can help keep water from standing on the surface.

2. Asphalt Paving

Your parking lot will be handling a lot of traffic, so you must choose a high-quality material that can withstand years of use. Asphalt is ideal for parking lots because it is durable, affordable, and easy to maintain. Asphalt paving should be done by a professional who has experience in this type of work.

3. Traffic Control

For your construction project to go as smoothly as possible, it is essential to have a traffic control plan in place. It will help ensure pedestrians and vehicles can safely move through the area.

4. Asphalt Maintenance

Asphalt maintenance is essential once your parking lot has been paved. Asphalt needs to be sealed periodically to protect it from the elements. Asphalt sealant can be applied by a professional, or you can do it yourself.

One of the most important aspects of maintaining an asphalt parking lot is keeping it clean. Debris such as leaves, pine needles, and dirt can clog the asphalt pores, preventing them from breathing. It will lead to cracks and other damage over time. Make sure to sweep your lot regularly and use a leaf blower to get rid of any stubborn debris.

Hiring a qualified asphalt contractor is one of the most critical aspects of construction. Make sure you do your research and recruit a good reputation company with a license and insurance.

Ending Note

You can make the process smoother and save yourself some money by considering these four factors. Scorpion Construction LLC is here to help with asphalt maintenance and paving. We have over ten years of experience in the field, so we know what to look for when building or repairing a parking lot. And don’t forget – if you live in the Lakeland area and need any asphalt paving work done, get a free estimate from us.

You are currently viewing 6 Benefits Of Using Soil Cement To Pave Over Unstable Bases

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If your business needs a new driveway, you may be wondering what the best option is. Various materials can be used for paving, but soil cement is one of the most popular options. Soil cement is a mixture of soil, water, and cement used to stabilize unstable bases. It is made by mixing sand and mud with Portland cement in the correct proportions, and it has many benefits for both homeowners and businesses. When properly installed, soil cement can provide a solid surface for paving over or building. Scorpion Construction LLC will discuss six of the most significant benefits of using soil cement to pave over unstable bases!

Soil Cement Benefits

Soil cement is a cost-effective way to stabilize uneven surfaces. It is much cheaper than other methods, such as asphalt paving or concrete paving. It can be used to repair roads and sidewalks in poor condition.

1. Durable

Soil cement is a durable material. It can withstand heavy traffic and not crack or crumble like asphalt or concrete. Soil cement is also resistant to weathering, so that it will look good for many years. It solidifies with a high compressive strength, which means it can withstand a lot of weight.

2. Easy to Install and Repair

Soil cement is easy to install. It does not require waiting for the material to cure, unlike asphalt or concrete. It can be used right after it is mixed. It is also convenient to repair and does not require special equipment.

3. Eco-Friendly

Soil cement is also environmentally friendly because it is made from natural materials. It uses less energy to produce and releases fewer pollutants into the air.

4. Better Drainage

Soil cement provides better drainage than asphalt or concrete. It creates a perfect slope for water to flow away from your home or business. It prevents flooding and minimizes the risk of water damage.

5. Flexible

Soil cement is also flexible. It can expand and contract without cracking, which makes it ideal for areas with extreme temperature changes. It is also more resistant to frost heave, preventing damage to roads and sidewalks.

6. Versatile

Soil cement is a versatile material that can be used for various applications. It can also create new roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. It is ideal for paving over tricky bases, such as sand or gravel. 

Ending Note

Soil cement is an excellent choice for several types of projects. It is affordable, strong, durable, eco-friendly, and easy to install. If you need a new driveway at your home in Clearwater, FL, and are considering using soil cement, call Scorpion Construction LLC. We can help in completing your project quickly and efficiently. And don’t forget- we offer free estimates! So what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us today and let us show you why soil-cement is the best option for your paving needs.

You are currently viewing Summers, Sunshine, & Asphalt Bleeding – Is It A Problem?

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By the time summer rolls around, all you can think about is getting outdoors and enjoying the sunny weather. While you are out there, you might want to watch for signs of pavement bleeding at your property. This blog post by Scorpion Construction LLC explores what pavement bleeding is, whether or not it’s a big deal, and what we can you do to prevent it.

Asphalt Bleeding: What Is It?

Asphalt bleeding occurs in hot weather when small particles within the asphalt melt and stick to the pavement’s surface. Pavement bleeding is commonly seen on highways, roads, and other thoroughfares with large vehicular traffic volumes.

When these fine particles – known as “spalls” or “tack coat” – are left to stay on the pavement for an extended period, they can create a rough driving surface. This results in premature deterioration of the road surface. Pavement bleeding is particularly problematic in warm climates. High temperatures cause water vapor from rain and carbon dioxide from vehicle exhausts to rise through pores in the roadway.

What Causes Asphalt Bleeding?

Asphalt bleeding is the “oozing of asphalt-saturated aggregate particles at the surface .”Asphalt roads are made up of mineral filler. The mineral filler provides structure to the mix.

When water can get into the mix, it displaces the air that holds everything together. With less air holding things together, more asphalt seeps through these voids in the rock or sand particles. This causes the rock to rise closer to the road’s surface, resulting in asphalt bleeding.

Can You Fix Asphalt Bleeding?

As mentioned earlier, asphalt bleeding occurs when the oil in asphalt is exposed to excessive heat or sunlight, causing it to rise through the cracks in the pavement. This process is typically only noticed when the excess oil turns white upon exposure to heat or light–hence, “bleeding” asphalt.

Long-term fixes for this problem include applying a maintenance compound or sealing with an overlay application. However, these repairs are best left up to professionals with experience carrying out these projects. Inexperienced parties can easily make mistakes that result in costing more time and money in the end… not to mention leaving your asphalt with a “patch job” look.

Cracks from pavement bleeding affect the appearance of your asphalt and can also potentially create trip hazards for pedestrians. These cracks will eventually deepen over time, further affecting the integrity of the asphalt and requiring a significant overhaul to fix. Asphalt maintenance can help prevent this problem from occurring in the first place.

The Ending Note

At Scorpion Construction LLC, serving in St. Petersburg, FL, we understand the importance of having a well-maintained and paved property. So, if you’re thinking about having your asphalt needs addressed, give us a call today! Whether infrared patching or asphalt excavation for residential or commercial properties, our team is happy to help with any size project, from small driveways to large parking lots.

We can make sure your property has a beautiful look. While also providing peace of mind knowing that your asphalt will be well-maintained throughout its lifetime. Get your free estimate!

You are currently viewing The Top 5 Reasons Why Asphalt Goes Gray And What You Can Do About It

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If you’ve ever driven down a road and noticed that the asphalt has turned into a light gray color, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that many people ask about, and it’s one that Scorpion Construction LLC in Clearwater, FL, is here to answer.

Today, we will talk about the top five reasons why asphalt goes gray and what can be done about it. Keep reading for more information!

UV Rays

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause asphalt to fade and turn gray over time. Gray pavement can be prevented by adding a protective seal coat every two to three years.

Shrinkage And Cracking

Asphalt can shrink due to temperature changes and crack when it’s dried out, which also causes gray pavement. The material can become very hard and brittle as it ages, especially when exposed to the sun. Sealcoating helps protect against this issue since it adds an extra layer of protection from the elements such as UV rays.

Oil And Gasoline Spills

If there are any oil or gasoline spills on the pavement, they can gradually seep into the surface and discolor it. The discoloration caused by oil and gasoline is difficult to remove since it’s impossible to cover up with another asphalt layer.

Wear And Tear

Asphalt can fade over time as well due to wear and tear from heavy traffic or bad weather. Gray pavement is especially common in areas where there are a lot of cars driving by on the street.

Salt and De-icing Solutions

One of the most common causes of asphalt pavement turning gray is salt and de-icing solutions used during the winter months. When salt and de-icing materials are applied to the asphalt pavement, and UV light hits these pigments in your pavement, it discolors them and makes them appear lighter or grayer than they originally were.

One of the reasons why salt and de-icing material turn asphalt gray is because they contain sodium chloride (NaCl). Sodium chloride leads to the oxidation of iron oxides in the binder, which causes discoloration.

Over time, salt can cause cracks in your pavement due to its corrosive nature. This is why you must remove salt from the pavement to preserve the color and maintain the structural integrity of your pavement.

Oxidation from Water

Asphalt oxidation occurs when water, oxygen, and chlorides interact with asphalt. This interaction causes hydrocarbon chains in the binder to break down into smaller molecules, which then change the binder’s chemical makeup and physical properties.

If you’re looking for a reliable asphalt contractor, Scorpion Construction, LLC at Clearwater, FL, is here to elevate your property’s appearance with our budget-friendly asphalt & concrete paving solutions company! You can get your free estimate now!