About Asphalt Paving
Asphalt is a type of paving material which is commonly used on roads, parking lots, and commercial buildings. It is a versatile and durable material that is very affordable and can last for years. Despite its longevity, it does need regular maintenance. If you have an asphalt driveway or parking lot, there are several things you should know about the installation process.
There are two different types of Asphalt paving. Hot mix asphalt, also known as heated asphalt, is typically used for highways and driveways in the United States. The material is heated and poured onto a bed of heavier aggregate. This creates a surface that is highly resistant to water and can withstand heavy loads. Another type is semi-solid asphalt. These surfaces can be recycled and are better for the environment.
A paved area is usually made up of several layers, with the most important ones being the sub-base and binder layers. These are designed to protect the surface from water and the freeze-thaw cycle. Generally, more than half of the sub-base layer is crushed stones. In addition to being a load-bearing layer, the sub-base also serves as a frost barrier. When a sub-base is laid properly, it provides support for the new pavement.
Everything You Need To Know About Asphalt Paving
Once a new pavement is laid, the contractor may also have to prepare the surface for a drainage system. The contractor will then add a fresh layer of asphalt to the entire surface. After this is completed, the pavement will be rolled smooth.
Before paving, a thorough inspection is necessary. Most asphalt paving companies will use different tools to inspect the surface and identify areas that require attention. Some of the common issues include cracks, depressions, and potholes. Cracks can be caused by improper installation or by overloading a portion of the pavement. Potholes can be caused by plant life poking through the surface.
There are also other maintenance services that should be considered in order to keep your asphalt surface looking great. One of the easiest ways to prevent cracks and potholes is to ensure that debris and trash is removed. Additionally, you should consider sweeping your driveway or parking lot periodically to remove any fallen leaves or sticks. Smaller cracks can be easily repaired while larger ones can be fixed with more substantial repairs.
Besides repairs, it is important to have a regular maintenance schedule. Your asphalt surface can look its best for years to come with proper care. This is especially true if you plan to keep it for the long-term. Having a regular maintenance plan allows you to see potential issues faster and fix them before they get too big.
For the best results, a regular maintenance schedule should include sweeping up debris and repairing small cracks. Keeping an asphalt surface in good shape will help it to last longer and allow it to be repaired easier.
It is a good idea to choose a paving company with lines of credit with suppliers. Not all contractors are trustworthy. They may charge you less and skip over certain portions of your project.