If you’ve never managed a commercial or municipal asphalt paving project, this is something you’ll want to bookmark as a resource. You’ll likely have plenty of questions along the way, and the last thing you want is a contractor leaving you with more questions than answers.
We work to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Our customers’ properties retain more value with well-kept asphalt, and their tenants and customers can access their properties safely and smoothly. Aside from taking pride in the quality of our work and not taking shortcuts, we only make decisions based on what’s best for you.
Our asphalt paving team has decades in the industry and deep knowledge of all things related to asphalt. We wanted to share some of the most frequently asked questions about asphalt paving and our work to help you better understand what these projects entail.
Q: Why choose asphalt over concrete?
When it comes to choosing asphalt over concrete, maintenance may be the most crucial factor to consider. Asphalt is quicker to install and is ready sooner than concrete, and requires sealcoating six months after the job is completed. That healing process should happen every three to five years to prevent water damage, cracks, and deterioration from wear and tear from vehicles. When done correctly by a group of experienced asphalt contractors, the asphalt surface can last for up to 30 years without being repaired.
Q: How long should asphalt pavement last?
Well-installed asphalt paving, performed with quality materials and tools, can have a lifespan of up to 30 years. It’s also low-maintenance, and the preventative measures needed to keep asphalt looking new are relatively low-cost when stretched out over the lifetime of your pavement. Sealcoating every few years, crack and pothole filling, and general maintenance can also help your asphalt paving stand up to high volumes of vehicle traffic from customers or even trucks hauling inventory. What other areas of your commercial property can boast that kind of longevity?
Q: How can new asphalt be maintained?
Over time, UV rays, extreme weather, and chemicals can break down the asphalt and make it more susceptible to further damage. Regular sealcoating can go a long way towards supporting a barrier between the asphalt and the rest of the world. Stop minor damage in its tracks by calling your contractor out regularly. An experienced eye can inspect your pavement closely and identify issues, along with working closely with you to determine the best ways to maintain anything they see as a problem. This is especially important after periods of extreme weather and heavy rainfall.
Q: How are municipal paving projects different from commercial or residential?
Nobody on the municipal level likes to be in charge of asphalt or road repair as it can be an expensive and complicated process. However, keeping roads safe and free from damage that can impact drivers is vital for city planning and infrastructure growth. Working with a paving company that has experience with municipal paving projects can save time, money, and some massive headaches.
Q: What happens if I notice damaged asphalt on my property?
One of the most significant benefits of choosing asphalt for paved surfaces is the minimal maintenance over the lifetime of the asphalt. Still, it takes proactive measures to understand what maintenance is needed and when. By regularly inspecting the pavement and identifying asphalt damage, you’ll see a significant return on your investment in asphalt paving.
Q: Is asphalt pavement sustainable?
Asphalt application and repair are quick infrastructure projects and with the right contractor at the helm, these projects can be performed with minimal traffic congestion. That, in turn, means lower emissions and cleaner air overall. For those looking for quick curb appeal with a smaller impact on the environment, consider asphalt paving.
Additionally, damaged concrete surfaces can be reused as a base to hold layers of the asphalt pavement surface. This is commonly known as something called perpetual pavement and requires far less labor and materials for maintenance over its lifetime, adding to the longevity and sustainability of asphalt.