Although Vancouver does not have severely harsh winters compared to other regions of Canada, those of the region and its landscapes are still rather severe. Sometimes, it snows, too, and this weather condition, besides freezing temperatures and constant downpours, is capable of stunting plant growth, causing the soil to erode, and weakening structures that have been constructed outside.
Asphalt sealing is a protective coating used on asphalt surfaces, such as blacktops, driveways, and walkways. This treatment provides a water barrier base layer to protect the inferior asphalt from water damage, the freeze-thaw cycle, and the salt effect.
Landscape and paving companies, like Kingsway Paving in Vancouver, provide a wide range of services, from asphalt sealing to assisting homeowners in keeping their yards looking beautiful and functional.
The Importance Of Asphalt Sealing For Winter Landscape Protection
Winter may be one of the most lovely seasons, but it depends on the circumstances; therefore, it is an extremely dangerous season for landscapes.
Four elements cause winter damage: frost, snow, sleet, and strong wind.
- Frost Heave
Frost heave is familiar as one of the most typical winter harms. When the ground is freezing and then thawing, the water in the soil changes volume, and the results are that the soil heaves up and moves plants, paving stones and other landscape elements around it.
- Soil Erosion
Because of the winter storms, one can easily experience soil erosion, especially with inclines.
Rain and thawing of snow, at least at the surface, remove the topsoil, exposing the plants to death in areas devoid of vegetation.
- Plant Damage
Cold can harm or even kill a plant, sometimes particularly sensitive plants. Furthermore, strong winds can cause plants to wilt and fall off their leaves due to the formation of desiccating winds.
- Water Damage
Water logging caused by sun or rain can cause water accumulation, which results in root rot.
Besides, ice formation on plants leads to mechanical damage, most especially when the stem is fully covered with ice.
How Sealing Asphalt Enhances Durability In Cold Weather?
Sealing asphalt is an anticipatory method that greatly reduces winter havoc on landscapes.
Seal coating preserves increases the life span of the asphalt and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property owner’s property.
- Preventing Water Penetration
In fact, asphalt sealing can be advantageous because it helps ensure that water does not seep into the relatively smooth surface of the asphalt.
This is important, mainly as water penetrates buildings into cracks and pores and expands due to freeze-thaw cycles.
- Reducing Frost Heave
Frost heave is known to cause HAVOC in landscapes, as discussed earlier in this article. By sealing the asphalt, property owners can minimize the chances of frost heave.
The sealant helps to reduce the quantity of water it absorbs, limiting the expansion and contraction of the soil.
- Protecting Against Salt Damage
In areas where roads are treated with salt during winter, salts are known to negatively affect asphalt and nearby landscaping.
Salt can ultimately lead to the dispersion of the asphalt base and be risky to vegetation. Sealing the asphalt provides a cover that protects the compound from salts, which are extremely dangerous to it.
- Preservation Of Landscape
Sealing work prolongs the stability of landscape formations by avoiding dry rot, frost action, and the operational influence of salt.
Patios, driveways, and pathways are not damaged, making a good base for plants and other structures in the compound.
Benefits Of Asphalt Sealing For Vancouver Landscapes
Apart from protecting your landscape from winter damage, asphalt sealing has other important benefits.
Residents of Vancouver should hire professional seal coating companies to protect and beautify their properties.
- Enhanced Curb Appeal
Properly paved or gravelled and maintained, a driveway or walkway also dramatically enhances the aesthetics of your home.
Sealing will help you recover the natural appearance of your asphalt and eradicate irregularities, including cracks and stains.
- Increased Property Value
One of the benefits of maintaining one’s landscape is that it increases the overall value of your property.
A potential buyer is more likely to be impressed when s/he sees a well-maintained home with a well-done, members-only type of driveway or walkway. Sealing asphalt can produce a good impression and attract potential buyers.
- Longevity
Sealing is recommended now and then to ensure the postponement of the driveway and walkway construction period.
If you keep the asphalt surface from being exposed to these conditions, it will not deteriorate early and won’t require frequent repair or replacement.
- Cost-Effective
It is quite helpful to point out that the upfront cost of having the driveway sealed with asphalt is relatively high, but again, it will prove to be well worth the cost.
You will reduce expenses that come with frequent damages and premature wear out of your asphalt surfaces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, asphalt sealing is a valuable investment for Vancouver property owners who want to protect their landscapes from winter damage.
Asphalt sealing helps prevent water penetration, frost heave, and salt damage by creating a waterproof barrier.
To ensure optimal results, hiring a reputable excavation contractor in Vancouver is essential.