Advantages of Asphalt Paving Over Concrete

Today, Asphalt has become a synonym to paving and is a widely installed form of paving. It is preferred both in the commercial as well as industrial sectors for its cost-effective and durability. It is chosen over other forms of paving like concrete by property owners and business owners alike.

A comparative study of the two forms of paving mentioned above gives a better idea about the right kind of material for driveways, parking lots, pavements, walkways and other property peripheries.

Some of the advantages of asphalt paving over its concrete counterpart are mentioned below:

Time-effective The most important factor that supports Asphalt paving is its time-effective. It is the easiest paying material to prepare and also dries up quicker than concrete. Hence, potholes, damaged parking lots and driveways are mended easily with asphalt in lesser time.

Initial Cost Although, the long-time cost of concrete is lesser than Asphalt paving, Asphalt paving has less initial cost. It is economical and can easily used to repair and restore damages. Its up front costs are quite less; hence, the long-term maintenance costs of asphalt are overlooked.

Maintenance Cost The maintenance cost for asphalt is much less than concrete. Over a period of time, the cost ratio for asphalt is definitely more than concrete, but its one-time cost is less than concrete.

Wear and Tear Concrete is more prone to cracks and require a lot of seals and maintenance in the long run. They develop cracks and fissures easily than in asphalt paving. Hence, asphalt is comparatively less prone to wear and tear in quick time.

Flexibility Asphalt is an extremely flexible paving material and can be mould and used for any kind of paving and construction work. It is widely used in both commercial and residential sectors for construction and restoration work.

Weather Resistance Another important factor favoring the installation of asphalt paving is its long durability and weather resistance. It is resistant to easy wear and tear due to climatic change.

Thus, it becomes clear that the role of paving expert in our lives can not be avoided. One can make his or her home exterior beautiful by choosing experienced Paving contractors.

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Why Have An Asphalt Driveway In Your Property

The look of your driveway has an effect on the overall appeal of your house. It works as a focal point as passersby and visitors come towards your house. An inviting driveway also adds to the value of your home. The most common material utilized in residential driveways is hot mix asphalt, which is an engineered combination of aggregate and liquid asphalt cement.

Benefits of using asphalt

Asphalt is a recommended material for driveways because they are even, long lasting, and safe. They can also deal with any load, from sedans to even trucks for those who have them. Asphalt pavement can be custom-made to reduce noise, to minimize splash and spray during the wet seasons, and even to help treat rain water. It can also stand up to freezing and thawing. And in winter, you don't have to worry about salting your driveway because asphalt is unaffected by salt.

Best time to have your driveway paved

Temperature is one of the primary considerations when paving a driveway because low temperatures and cold air can considerably affect how quickly the mix cools and thus extend the timeframe the contractor may need to complete the task. Paving your driveway during the cold season will leave you with a driveway that looks uneven.

How to choose an asphalt paving company

Avoid itinerant contractors - Be vigilant during the spring and summer months since there are several paving companies who go door-to-door offering affordable deals on asphalt work. Some of these offers are a sham. Some of them require money upfront but provide shoddy quality of work or one that deteriorates prematurely.

Obtain several estimates - Prices differ among paving companies. In addition, they may vary when it comes to quality. Get quotes from at least three contractors, and make sure that they are providing estimates for the same specifications.

Ascertain compliance to local requirements - Determine if the paving contractor you would like to hire has the required license to operate. To avoid potential headaches later on, make sure to use a paving contractor who is adequately insured and bonded.

Obtain references - Ask for contact details of past customers so you can communicate with them directly. Past customers can give you information that the company may not readily provide, like how respectful the contractor's workers were and if the project was accomplished within the agreed time and budget.

Get a contract - Insist on getting a contract for the work. The contract ought to be thorough and must contain all guarantees made by the paving company.

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Selecting A Good Asphalt Contractor Is Must To Get High Quality Durable Surfaces

A smooth, well-maintained driveway is most essential if you want to make an excellent impression on a visitor to your property. Due to its shiny black appearance, smooth texture, resilience and durability, asphalt is the most preferred choice for constructing driveways. In fact, it is the best material for many other paving jobs such as parking lots, walkways, etc.

However, it is not only the material, but also the way it is installed that determines whether your surface will be as sturdy and long-lasting as you expect it to be. It is important that you hire a good asphalt contractor if you want your property to benefit from the advantages offered by asphalt paving.

If you look around, you may find several asphalt contractors servicing your area. You need to sift through them to find the most skilled, experienced and reliable one to handle your job. And to be sure that you make the correct choice, you should take out time to learn the basics of the process of asphalt paving and know about the essentials that make a good asphalt paving contractor. The pointers given below can help you hire the perfect professional.

• You should start your search for a suitable contractor by looking in a reliable, high-traffic online local business directory. You can also get references from your relatives, friends or acquaintances in the local construction industry.
• It is best to avoid 'traveling' contractors who approach you for handling your asphalt job. These contractors may claim to have materials leftover from a previous project and offer to do your work at a discounted price. Take care not to get tempted into hiring such unpredictable services.
• Determine your budget so that you can select a contractor whose services suit your needs and are also within your budget.
• Get estimates from at least 3-4 contractors and compare their services before choosing any one. But, remember that lowest bid does not necessarily mean the best option.
• Feel free to discuss matters such as how long the contractor has been in the industry; machines and equipment owned by it; skills, certifications and training of its technicians; quality of materials and mixtures to be used; etc.
• Use online resources and also your local network to learn about the reputation these asphalt paving contractors enjoy.
• It is most imperative that you ask the contractors for local references, preferably recent ones. Check out a few of these references through personal visits to reassure yourself about the quality of the job done, timeliness of project completion, level of customer service, etc.
• Get a written contract detailing all the terms agreed upon between both the parties before initiating the project.

As an informed customer, you should make sure that you select the best contractor that deliver on its promises and delivers a high quality, durable surface.

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The Correct Way to Repair an Asphalt Parking Lot

There are many contributing factors that make asphalt a great material to use when paving a parking lot or an asphalt driveway. It is a relatively inexpensive material when compared to other material such as concrete or concrete paving blocks. Asphalt is a very durable product that stands up well to basic wear and tear of vehicle and foot traffic. Another great reason to use asphalt for your paving needs is that asphalt is a green product that is recycled more often than any other paving product.

Here are a few tips that will help you if you already have an asphalt driveway or parking lot surface that is in need of repairs. Although asphalt will need maintenance from time to time, it will only help in keeping future repair cost down to a minimum. If you are trying to do your own maintenance repairs, you will want to complete the repairs properly in order to get the maximum life out of your pavement. If you are hiring a contractor to handle the repairs for you, a little education on what to look for will help you choose the right contractor and also help you know what to look for once their on the job.

Asphalt maintenance should be done periodically as needed. Sealcoating is one way to protect against water undermining the asphalt and reaching the base material beneath the asphalt. Ultraviolet rays can break down the binder material in asphalt allowing it to become brittle and fall apart. Sealcoating will give your asphalt surface protection against the ultraviolet rays. Sealcoating should be mixed to the proper specifications and should not be diluted to in order to stretch out the product. This will not give the asphalt the same protection. The first coat can be sprayed on to ensure the material gets into the smaller cracks to seal off and stop any future water penetration.

If you have areas in your asphalt pavement that have potholes or noticeably large alligator cracks you may need to remove these areas in order to repair them correctly. The first step in this process is to cut out the affected area with a saw. Next, you will need to remove any excess materials from the affected area. Once the area is cleaned of any debris, apply a tach coat to make the new hot asphalt adhere to the cut out area. Then apply the new asphalt, and always make sure to compact the newly installed asphalt.

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Proper Maintenance for Asphalt Pavement

Asphalt is among the most popular commercial paving materials used today due to its water-resistance, flexibility, aesthetic appeal, and excellent adhesive abilities. All of these properties and more make asphalt pavement an asset that requires a structured level of preservation and care. Otherwise, it is prone to fading, damage, instability, and various other negative implications. With proper preventative maintenance, asphalt pavements can remain beautiful and functional for years. Not only is this ideal for investment purposes, but for liability as well. If you are an involved property owner, continue reading to learn the best methods for asphalt maintenance and care.

Asphalt Maintenance

Although pavement maintenance agendas will differ from property to property, the overall purpose of asphalt maintenance is to sustain its appeal and extend its life. Some paving maintenance tasks can be managed on your own or by an appointed staff, such as inspections and trash clearance; while others are best left in the hands of trained and equipped professionals. An ideal pavement maintenance should include basic tasks like regular assessments, sweeping, crack filling, pothole repair, periodic line striping, and most importantly, seal coating. Without a proper sealcoat, asphalt pavements will experience heightened wear and tear from traffic, weather, chemicals, salts, and more, which shortens their life and diminishes their aesthetic value.

Asphalt Seal Coating

Seal coats are emulsions that are brushed or sprayed onto pavements, providing a clear protective layer against moisture and the above-mentioned threats. There are several types of commercial sealcoats available on the market, but the most popular versions include fog seal, slurry seal, and chip seal emulsions. Some sealcoat products are water-based, which are easier and safer to spread. But there are also waterless versions that use organic or plant-based oils or hydrocarbon solvents instead.

Choosing to Seal Coat

If your asphalt pavement is old and in poor condition, it will not likely benefit from a new layer of seal coat. In some cases, it is more cost-effective to repair or replace deteriorated asphalt pavements instead. However, if your asphalt is in good condition, a periodic re-sealing can be a highly-beneficial maintenance decision. Talk to your trusted paving contractor for a professional recommendation of your asphalt's maintenance and sealcoating schedule. They will know exactly what your property needs and at what intervals. The cost of having your asphalt seal-coated will depend on several factors, such as the square footage, the condition of pavement, and any additional surface applications needed.

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Asphalt Installation - Understand the Process Before You Choose a Paving Company

If you're thinking about getting asphalt installed, either as a driveway or something else, knowing how it's installed is important. Not only will it help you know what to expect during the installation, but you will understand where your hard earned money is going. Here is some information on asphalt installation to help you understand the process before you choose a paving company.

The Stone Layer

Typically, asphalt installation begins with the company putting down a layer of stone or gravel. Many contractors use crushed gravel as it is the least expensive base to use for the asphalt. If you want the best sort of underlay for your asphalt, you can request a larger stone - however, be prepared as it may cost you more. Once the stone layer has been put in, the contractor will move on to the pouring the asphalt.

Pouring the Asphalt

Generally, after the stone has been selected and placed where it is needed, the contractors will pour the asphalt. You may notice that the gravel extends a few inches past where the asphalt is poured. This is good - if the asphalt made it to the sides of the gravel to the dirt or grass, it can easily break off at the sides as there is nothing supporting it. This will make your driveway look terrible!

Leveling

After the asphalt is poured, you will notice your contractor using a machine to straighten or level the surface of the driveway. This is to make sure everything is perfectly level and that there are no bumps or areas that are higher or lower than the rest of the asphalt. When this is finished, your asphalt only needs to cool and set up and you will have a brand new driveway. The time it takes to finish your driveway depends on how large it is and many other variables. Your contractor will discuss this with you before the job is started.

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Benefits of Choosing Asphalt Paving for Your Driveway

Driveways are an important part of any home. They enhance value by providing off-street parking and, if well-constructed, enhance the home's curb appeal. Additionally, they provide a place for basketball games, roller skating and other games. Most homes use either concrete or asphalt for their driveways because these materials are relatively durable and cost-effective. Of these options, asphalt paving is the more cost-effective and durable eco-conscious choice for driveways.

Durability is one of the main arguments for not choosing concrete. The difference in the two materials is a result of the ways in which they are made. Concrete is made of water, cement and an aggregate like crushed rock or sand. Cement binds the mixture, which dries into a stiff mass that is susceptible to cracks if the underlying surface is not smooth. Alternatively, asphalt paving is flexible to accommodate surface imperfections while remaining extremely hard and durable. This material is made using a binder of a crude oil derivative called bitumen, which binds the aggregate. The mixture is applied hot and pressed into place. In addition to being less likely to crack, asphalt paving is less subject to flaking or spalling caused by poor installation or the application of salts used to melt ice during the winter. It's also important to note that concrete is more susceptible to staining and weathering.

Lower ownership costs are another reason to opt for asphalt paving. The material costs less to install and maintain over the life of the driveway. Installation takes one to two days and the driveway is ready for use about two days after completion. Maintaining your surface is also cheaper and easier. Sealant applications should be made every three to five years to prolong the life of your driveway.  With proper maintenance and depending on where you live, your surface can last thirty years or longer. On the other hand, concrete takes longer to install and can take up to a week to be ready for use. Costs with concrete can also add up if the homeowner wants to create a custom color, pattern or finish.

Asphalt paving is also a better choice for eco-conscious homeowners, as the product is 100 percent recyclable. Approximately 80 percent of this material is recycled when removed, more frequently than paper and plastic. Additionally, the aggregate can be made from recycled tire rubber, glass, foundry sand, slag and pig manure, pavement and shingles. Use of these materials is estimated to save hundreds of millions of cubic yards of landfill space each year. Further, using reclaimed products reduces the need for virgin binder to be used and allows the material to be applied at a lower temperature, which reduces energy demands and emissions.

Many homeowners take their driveways for granted, especially if their home came built with one already in place. However, homeowners should consider the many benefits of asphalt when installing a driveway themselves.

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Reasons Why You Should Maintain Your Asphalt Pavement

If you own a property that has asphalt pavement for a driveway or parking area you will need to take necessary steps in order to maintain the surface. If the proper steps are taken to maintain the asphalt surface, it can last for many years. There are some costs involved in maintaining the parking lot but ultimately it is much cheaper than having to replace it.

You should always try to keep water from penetrating your asphalt's surface. Water is one of the largest factors which can lead to asphalt deterioration. Usually water will make its way into the asphalt by the cracks in the pavement's surface. Crack filling will help to prevent the water from entering into the asphalt's surface. Crack filling is a process where rubberized asphalt material is heated and then applied into the crack in the asphalt's surface. The rubberized asphalt dries and fills the crack, thus keeping water from entering. All cracks in the surface should be filled before more troublesome, larger more expensive repairs are needed. If left untreated, these cracks will eventually lead to potholes. Potholes are large holes in the asphalt's surface where the water has affected the sub grade under the surface.

Another factor in maintaining an asphalts surface is sealcoating. Sealcoating is a necessary step in maintaining your parking lot or driveway. Sealcoating is applied to the surface of the pavement using a sprayer and a squeegee. The sealcoating material will help to defend against any ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet rays can break down the binder material in the asphalt material. As the binder material is broken down, aggregates and sands become loosened. The sealcoating process can normally be applied quickly and easily.

It is a good idea to have these steps applied by a professional. You can normally find a professional in the local phone book or on the internet. You can search asphalt paving companies or asphalt paving contractors to receive the help that you are seeking.

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Selecting a Sealcoating Contractor

Your investment in asphalt pavement, whether it is a parking lot or simply a residential driveway, will require maintenance to extend the life of the surface. It is the "welcome mat" to your business or a vital part to the curb appeal of your home or residence. Maintaining the asphalt is important and sealcoating is one of those steps. However, selecting the appropriate contractor for sealcoating is as important as just making the decision to protect the asphalt to begin with.

The first thing to look for in a sealcoating contractor is their history or reputation. Can they provide references? Will they offer you properties to look at to see the quality of their work? Avoid those individuals that are going door to door and offering to sealcoat your driveway at a great price because they have left-over material from work before. More often than not you'll never hear from them again. That's not good if any issues arise and you need them to make good on any mistakes.

Secondly, you should compare warranties on workmanship between sealcoating contractors. How long do they claim their application will last or wear? Also, what is included in the quote? Are they including any crack repair or pothole repair? And remember to get any promises in writing and collect any additional information from them such as business cards, reference lists etc...If any striping is necessary, ask if they are doing the work or if will it be subcontracted out. If they are hiring another contractor to do striping, be sure to check them out as well. Once you've selected a contractor, make sure they have insurance to protect you and your property from any damages or loss.

Before any work begins, do not be afraid to ask what equipment they have or how the sealcoat will be applied? Based on the size of the job, you need to be sure they have the appropriate tools to clean and prepare the surface and the necessary tools or equipment to apply the sealcoating or other materials in an efficient and timely manner.

If you are the property owner of a facility involving a decent size parking lot, you will want be conscience of how the work is completed and the time involved. If the sealcoating crew is only preparing the lot with brooms without the use of blowers and if they are applying sealer by hand instead of a spray or squeegee machine, that will cost you in the end in additional labor costs.

What do you need to know about the sealcoating material? Ask them how many coats are included in the quote? It is best practice to demand or specify two coats. The first coat of sealcoating will fill in the voids and porosity of the asphalt surface. The second coat is the wearing layer. The second coat is important to get longevity. The top of the rock or smooth sides of the rock in asphalt tend to wear quickly and a second coat of sealer will help reduce that wear. Also, verify the contractor is following the manufacturer's specifications for mixing and applying sealcoat. With that, it is important you know the square footage of the area getting sealed so you have an idea of how much material should be applied.

Other tips to follow include keeping an eye on the weather. Do not allow application if temperatures are expected to fall below 50 degrees for 24 hours and make sure no rain is forecasted for the same 24 hour period to ensure proper curing and performance. Once the sealcoating is complete you must keep vehicles off the driveway or parking lot for 24 to 48 hours. Following these few steps will ensure the sealcoating will beautify and protect your asphalt pavement for years to come.

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Why Should Business Owners Maintain Their Commercial Parking Lots?

For many individuals, one of the most primary concerns when going to any type of commercial establishment is the overall condition of the parking lot. When the commercial parking lot is neglected or not properly maintained, it can present health and safety hazards. One of the most serious health risks that come with a poorly maintained car park is the environmental pollutants that might accumulate in the area. For this reason, business owners need to realize that clients and customers prefer to choose a car park that is properly maintained, well-kept, and are not isolated.

There are a lot of reasons why it is crucial to ensure that the facility maintains the proper upkeep of their outdoor areas. This article lists the importance of maintaining the parking area of commercial establishments.

Prevent Serious Health Hazards

Parking areas that are covered, such as those located in the basement or underground, should be properly ventilated and cleaned regularly. Engines emit smoke that can pose serious health risks, especially if the smoke is kept within an enclosed area. The solid particles from the emission will settle on the floor as particulates. These particulates can contain toxic substances.

These toxic particles can become air-borne or it might be washed into bodies of water. If these particles eventually end up in natural water ways, it will pose serious health risks to drinking water and other aquamarine resources.

Improve Business Image

Properly maintaining the parking lot is also important to improve the image of the business establishment. When clients or customers visit the establishment this outdoor area will be the first thing they see. A well-kept and properly maintained appearance will provide positive impression.

To ensure that this area looks attractive and clean, a full range of maintenance and repair services are needed. There are companies offering commercial cleaning services that are dedicated to maintaining parking lots and sidewalk areas.

Protect Your Investment

Business owners should also pay close attention to parking lot maintenance because preparing this entails huge investment. Maintaining this area will help maintain the durability as well as the appeal of the parking area.

Keep in mind that when sand, gravel, and other debris stay on the surface for too long, it will affect the overall appearance of the car park. It will also deteriorate the surface of the parking lot. Overtime, the residual residue will result in costly repairs on the car park surface.

It is the business owner's responsibility to oversee the maintenance of their commercial property. Maintaining cleanliness in the parking area goes beyond improving the aesthetic appeal of the property. It will help lower the health and safety risks, as well as lower the cost of possible repair and maintenance.

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