Why use Hawk-Seal-E?
When the working life of an asphalt surface is extended for several years, coupled with a reduction in annual maintenance costs, huge budget dollars are saved.
The key to extending the life of these surfaces is to reduce the damage caused by water and oxidation. Asphalt is no more impervious to the effects of time, weathering and tough service than any other construction material.
There are two main factors which adversely affect the performance life of asphalt --- water and oxidation. As asphalt ages, it will "move" due to changes in temperature and loss of volatile oils. The vast majority of potholes and pavement failures can be traced to water entering the base and sub-grade through voids and cracks. Water entering the base and sub-grade softens the asphalt and causes it to lose load-carrying capacity.
Hawk-Seal-E should be used on new asphalt as well as old asphalt. As the sun dries out and oxidizes the surface, the asphalt binder breaks down. The asphaltenes (solvents) vaporize. This process causes the asphalt to shrink and lose flexibility. The shrinkage results in cracks.
Many times the cracks first show up in the low traffic (low compaction) areas. Water enters the base and sub-grade through these cracks and weakens the base and sub-grade. Unless this process is slowed, base failure and failure of the asphalt surface will result. In many cases, damage in low traffic areas is caused because the asphalt dries out, not because it wears out.
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