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How Asphalt Gets Damaged: When to Contact an Asphalt Company for Repairs

An asphalt driveway or parking lot can last for years, but eventually you will need to contact an asphalt company for a replacement or repair. Asphalt gets damaged over time from temperature extremes, general wear and tear, spills on the asphalt, and when equipment is parked on the asphalt that is too heavy. There are a number of reasons to have your asphalt repaired, and it’s important to understand when it’s time to call for help to protect the longevity of your driveway or parking lot.

Temperature Extremes and Excessive Storms

When you live in an area that experiences temperature extremes, this can wreak havoc on your asphalt surfaces. Your asphalt will expand during hot weather, and contract slightly when the weather is freezing. This will eventually cause cracks in your asphalt that will need to be repaired. During heavy storms, your asphalt can get damaged by falling debris, and even hail storms when the hail is large enough. If you notice damage to your asphalt after a storm, you will want to have an asphalt company come to assess the damage.

Freezing Temperatures and Cracking

If water gets below the surface of your asphalt driveway or parking lot and freezes, this is going to cause frost heaves on your asphalt to form. When the ice develops, it is going to push up sections of your asphalt if there is enough water. This is why you address cracks in your asphalt immediately, so that water can’t get below the surface and cause frost heaves. Asphalt companies will work with you to address any cracks that develop before they can cause further damage to your asphalt.

Heavy Equipment and High Traffic Areas

Heavy equipment can lead to damage to your asphalt surfaces, especially when the equipment is parked for any length of time. In areas where you have substantial traffic, you may see your asphalt wear down faster than in areas where few cars travel. If you find indentations or cracks from heavy equipment that was parked on your asphalt, you will want to get this repaired. When you have indentations, this is going to ruin the structural integrity of your asphalt surface.

Oil and Chemical Spills on Your Asphalt

If you find an oil spill on your asphalt surface, this needs to be cleaned up right away. Chemical spills should be handled by asphalt companies with the experience you want to stay safe during the cleanup process. Oil and other chemicals can damage the asphalt, and cause you to need a parking lot or driveway replacement earlier than expected. Always have spills cleaned up immediately to avoid damage to your asphalt.

Asphalt companies can come to assess any damage to your parking lot or driveway when you believe there is damage to your property. Don’t ignore cracks, as these can let in water that may eventually freeze. Pay attention to any spills on your asphalt, and get these professionally cleaned up as needed. When you take good care of your asphalt surfaces, you should be able to avoid an early replacement. Looks for cracks, and call for help from asphalt companies when you need it.

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Asphalt Paving Services You Need And When to Get Them

While it’s true that asphalt pavement and other surfaces are inherently durable, that doesn’t mean that you can go years without routine maintenance and expect to avoid issues. As is true with all types of surfaces, you need to take proactive steps to stop a small problem today before it has a chance to become a bigger (and likely more expensive) one tomorrow.

Case in point: understanding the differences between the various asphalt paving services that are available will help you learn more about why they’re so important and when you should have each one performed.

Sealcoating

Due to the fact that your asphalt driveway is almost constantly exposed to water and other weather-related elements, sealcoating is often recommended. This is when you seal the surface of the asphalt pavement to protect it from moisture, erosion, fading, and other issues.

Generally speaking, this should become part of your regular maintenance regimen – so expect to have it performed every few years or sooner.

Cracksealing

As the name suggests, cracksealing is when you use a special type of adhesive sealant that is designed to both fill and properly seal any cracks that have developed on the surface of your pavement. Having this performed can also help slow down deterioration, which goes a long way towards increasing the overall lifespan of your asphalt as well.

This type of asphalt paving service is fairly straightforward – you’ll need to have it performed whenever you see cracks begin to develop. Even something very small that may be hard to see without careful examination would still be a cause for action.

Striping and Marking

Especially when you’re talking about a public, commercial space like a parking lot, it’s essential to make sure markings are as clear as possible. When people know where they’re expected to park, they tend to do so properly – thus avoiding accidents and other issues down the road.

A lot of people don’t realize that striping and marking isn’t something that you “do once and forget about.” Daily sun exposure will absolutely cause things to fade overtime. The harder those markings are to see, the more likely you are to be found liable in the event of an accident.

Therefore, this is a call you’ll need to use your best judgment to make. If you’re having a hard time seeing the parking marks, everyone else is, too – which is when you should enlist the help of professional to correct the issue.

Asphalt Repairs

Overall, there are a number of general asphalt repairs that people can expect as wear and tear runs its course. In addition to cracks in the surface of the asphalt itself, you may deal with potholes, dull or faded coloring, warping, areas that sink lower than they should, and even drainage issues. You’ll also want to be on the lookout for any type of tripping hazard. Be especially mindful after severe weather instanes.

These are the types of asphalt repairs that will typically be completed on an as-needed basis, although preventative maintenance is always encouraged.

If you’d like to find out more information about the various asphalt paving solutions that are available and when you might need each one, or if you’d just like to talk to an experienced team of asphalt contractors about your upcoming project in a bit more detail, please don’t delay – contact us today.

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What’s the Difference Between Summer Asphalt and Winter Asphalt?

There are many reasons why so many homeowners choose asphalt to pave their driveways, patios, and other outdoor hard surfaces. Not only is it cost-effective, but asphalt is durable, flexible, easy to repair, and is low maintenance. An asphalt driveway can easily last 30 years before needing replacement.

But, how long an asphalt surface lasts depends on the asphalt company you choose and the asphalt mix (or aggregate) the contractor uses – summer asphalt or winter asphalt.

When is the best time to install asphalt?

The optimum temperature for an asphalt installation is when the temperature is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the temperature at which asphalt cures the fastest.  But, a good asphalt company can install an asphalt driveway at any time of the year, if they use the right asphalt mix.

Still, timing is important. During the winter, the asphalt company will want to avoid freeze/thaw cycles (for obvious reasons). And, during the summer, asphalt is rarely laid fresh during the portion of the day when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.

But when it comes to temperature, asphalt manufacturers have developed different formulations to suit each season. There is a summer asphalt (hot mix aggregate) that works better during the higher temperatures of this season. And, winter asphalt (or cold mix aggregate), is designed to be installed during the low temperature months of December through March.

Best Uses for summer asphalt

From spring to the end of fall, summer asphalt is heated to temperatures between 275-325 degrees Fahrenheit, and it is important that the hot asphalt stays within that temperature range as it is being quickly applied. If it cools too much, it should be reheated. Also, the ground surface needs to be warm and dry for an ideal summer asphalt application.

This aggregate is not only best to be applied during warm months, summer asphalt is also better suited for long driveways, commercial parking lots, and public roads.

Winter asphalt applications

Winter asphalt is best for wet and/or cold weather applications. This formulation does not need to be heated constantly in order for the asphalt to adhere well to the subsurface. But, because winter asphalt is poured when the surface is cold, it will take longer to cure.

Still, you can mix and use a batch of winter asphalt and save the remainder for driveway or repairing cracks in your driveway or street patch jobs at any time. While winter asphalt is not ideal for large asphalt installations, it is an easy and economical way to keep your driveway looking pristine when repairs are needed.

For smaller jobs and when you simply want to even out your existing driveway surface for a safer, smoother driveway, then winter asphalt is the go-to choice.

When you partner with a professional asphalt company, they will know exactly the right type of aggregate mix to use, what time of day is best, and in what weather conditions will provide for the best driveway installation. Most driveways in America are paved with asphalt because it creates a skid-resistant surface, which makes your driveway safer to walk and run on. Also, an asphalt surface is smoother and more uniform than other materials.

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Common Asphalt Paving Errors [How to Avoid Them]

When you have quality asphalt paving in your driveway, it makes a massive difference in the way your house looks. Asphalt is a durable material, and it can improve your curb appeal. However, when you or your contractor do not install it correctly, you will have problems later on down the road. Please continue reading to find out more about the common paving errors and how to avoid them.

1. Poor Project Planning

Proper planning is essential for the installation and maintenance of asphalt paving. Ensuring that you have all of the appropriate equipment and material is part of the planning process. You also want to have the best weather conditions possible and should consider that when planning. You want to spend the appropriate amount of time on the project. You do not want to rush through it. If you are not experienced with installing asphalt, you want to find a qualified asphalt contractor.

2. Paying Less for Poor Quality Work

Price is essential when searching for asphalt companies, but it should not be the only factor. While you may find a contractor that is affordable, it does not mean they will provide quality work. Therefore, you want to be cautious about selecting the asphalt contractor that offers the lowest price.

3. Choosing Low-Quality Materials

You may not realize it, but there are various types of asphalt paving materials available. They are not the same as they have varying quality. While we all want to save money where we can, you may not want to purchase more affordable material to decrease the price. When poor-quality asphalt is used, the results are often poor and less than expected. Instead, you want to purchase high-quality asphalt to ensure you have a smooth surface without any imperfections. Higher-quality asphalt holds up better to wear and tear and severe weather.

4. Rushing the Process

You want to take your time with your asphalt paving project. When you rush the project, there is a chance you will not follow the proper procedure. You also want to install the asphalt at the same speed the entire time. You do not want to speed up or slow down in different areas because it impacts how uniform the paving looks. Any asphalt contractor you select should use speed limiters to ensure you have a consistent and clean application of your asphalt.

5. Choosing the Wrong Asphalt Contractor

You want to select a highly qualified and reputable asphalt contractor. There are a number of asphalt companies available, but they are not all the same. You want one that is experienced and pays attention to the details because they matter, especially in paving. The contractor you select should plan well for the project, have the right equipment, and pay attention to the weather. You do not have to select the most expensive contractor, but you do not want to pick the cheapest. Adhering to your budget is essential, but you should not make your decision solely on cost. You also want to select a contractor that uses high-quality equipment and knows how to operate it.

If you keep these tips in mind when you are planning your asphalt paving job, you will have smooth, quality asphalt when you are finished.

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How Long To Wait To Drive Over New Asphalt

There is nothing like driving on a smooth new asphalt surface. Even though it is hard to do, you have to be patient and wait before you can use it. There are some steps you can take to help speed up the process. Continue reading to find out more information.

Can I Drive on New Asphalt Right Away?

No, it would be best if you waited two to four days before you drive on new asphalt. If you drive on it while it is wet, you can cause damage to the surface. If you can, waiting a full week is best.

How Long Does New Asphalt Take to Dry?

While asphalt is durable and lasts a long time, some time is needed when installed to ensure it dries or cures properly. The amount of time asphalt takes to dry depends on several factors.

These factors include:

  • Air Temperature
  • Climate
  • Humidity
  • Paving Thickness

The more humid or cold the weather impacts the length of time it takes for asphalt to dry. Generally, it should take two to three days, but cold or humid weather could increase drying time to a week.

How Can I Speed Up The Drying Process for Asphalt?

Asphalt companies will explain several steps you can take to speed up the drying time for asphalt.

Apply Sealcoat

A sealcoat protects your asphalt and helps it last longer. A sealcoat gives you a barrier between the asphalt and the elements that impact it, such as UV damage and water. Seal coating can also fill in any cracks in the asphalt.

Heat Lamp

A heat lamp can help speed up the drying time when you live in a colder area. You can leave the heat lamp over the asphalt for several hours. This helps to absorb moisture, so it dries faster.

No Traffic

Keep both vehicles and people off the asphalt until it has cured. If you allow traffic on it too early, it damages the surface and may allow tire marks in the asphalt.

Complete Drying Process

It takes time for the asphalt to dry completely. The asphalt construction company will give you directions about how long you should wait, and you do not want to use it before that time has elapsed. You can expect two days to one whole week before your asphalt is ready for traffic. The air temperature, humidity level, climate, and paving thickness make a difference in the amount of time it takes to dry. You may have problems if you do not allow the asphalt to dry before you use it. You may have tire marks, cracking, and other damage to your asphalt. To speed up the drying process, you should consult professional asphalt companies to ensure you are not damaging the surface.

How Can I Tell When Asphalt is Cured?

You can tell when your asphalt is cured or dry because it is hard to the touch. It will no longer feel tacky or soft or give off any fumes. You will notice the color has changed from black to gray.

What Impacts How Quickly Asphalt Can Be Cured?

Several factors impact how long it takes asphalt to cure. These include climate, humidity, air temperature, traffic, professional equipment, paving thickness, and knowledgeable installation.