Introduction

Water is one of the biggest threats to asphalt. When rain or melting snow isn’t properly drained away, it seeps into cracks, weakens the base, and accelerates pavement failure. Over time, this leads to potholes, surface erosion, and costly repairs.

The good news? With proper drainage design and regular upkeep, you can extend the life of your asphalt surfaces by years — saving money and maintaining a safer, more attractive property.

Why Drainage Matters for Asphalt

Without proper drainage, even the highest-quality asphalt won’t last. Here’s why water management is critical:

• Prevents Base Erosion: Standing water seeps into the sub-base, washing away support.
  

• Reduces Freeze-Thaw Damage: In New England, water freezes and expands, causing cracks and potholes.
  

• Protects Surface Integrity: Drainage reduces pressure on the asphalt, keeping it smoother longer.
  

• Improves Safety: Dry, even pavement lowers risks for vehicles and pedestrians.
  

• Extends Lifespan: Good drainage can add 5–10 years to the life of your asphalt.

Key Drainage Solutions for Asphalt Surfaces

When planning a new asphalt project — or upgrading an old one — drainage design is essential. Common solutions include:

• Grading and Sloping: Ensuring the surface has the right slope so water naturally flows away.
  

• Catch Basins: Installed in low spots to collect and redirect water.
  

• French Drains: Subsurface drains that move water away from the pavement.
  

• Culverts and Channels: Useful for private roads and subdivisions where larger volumes of water must be managed.
  

• Regular Maintenance: Cleaning drains, clearing debris, and sealing cracks to stop water infiltration.

FAQs About Asphalt Drainage

What happens if water sits on asphalt?
Pooling water weakens the base, causes cracks, and leads to potholes if not addressed quickly.

How much slope is needed for asphalt drainage?
Typically, a 1–2% slope is recommended to keep water flowing away from the pavement.

Can existing asphalt be fixed for drainage problems?
Yes. Milling, resurfacing, or adding drainage systems can improve water flow and extend pavement life.

Is drainage more important in cold climates?
Absolutely. In Massachusetts and Rhode Island, freeze-thaw cycles make drainage essential to prevent cracks and potholes.

Does sealcoating help with drainage?
Sealcoating doesn’t change slope but helps protect against water infiltration by sealing the asphalt surface.

Conclusion

Proper drainage isn’t just a detail — it’s a foundation for long-lasting asphalt. By directing water away through grading, basins, and drains, you prevent costly damage, improve safety, and maximize your investment.

For property owners in Seekonk and surrounding areas, working with an experienced paving contractor ensures your asphalt surfaces are built with the right drainage from the start.