Asphalt Paving Companies Perform Many Different Services

If you own a commercial or residential property, chances are at some point you will need to perform maintenance on your parking lot or driveway. There are several things to consider when choosing a contractor to perform these services on your property. Some contractors specialize in concrete and others in asphalt paving and some provide services for both. One important consideration to take when contracting work on your property is whether it is a commercial or residential job. Thus, making sure the company carries the proper insurance. It is also a good idea to check up on the companies insurance, what it covers and the dollar amount of coverage for their policy.

There are two different ways the actual work will take place. Some companies perform their work with in-house crews, and others outsource the actual work to be performed. There are pros and cons to each. When companies use in-house crews they are able to take on projects and assign a crew to the job within their own company. When using sub-contractors, you are sometimes dealing with other companies workload and their scheduling challenges. One of the pros of using sub-contractors is not to have to keep the crews and equipment busy during the offseason or in bad weather. Sometimes companies using sub-contractors just provide project management and administrative services. A lot of times this technique works better due to the many different scopes of work needed to complete the same project.

A good source for finding contractors in your area is on the internet, a lot of reputable companies are normally listed. These companies have information readily available so you can find perspective companies you are considering for hire. You will be able to see projects the company may have already completed. The companies' website is probably the most efficient means of gathering information about them. Using information from this article should be helpful in choosing an asphalt or concrete paving contractor in your area.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peyton_Stallings

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5953216

Why Asphalt Paving is the Top Choice For Most Property Owners

Whenever construction related topics are discussed, the use of asphalt VS concrete always creates a bit of controversy. This is especially true when the discussion focuses on paving. Even the word paving these days is used to describe mostly asphalt. But the truth is pavement is any material used to created roads or driveways. The most common modern paving methods however are asphalt and concrete.

Both asphalt and concrete have a long history in the building industry because of the variety of ways the materials can be used. However, in regard to paving parking lots and driveways the biggest argument has mainly been about initial cost.

Now comes the inevitable question, "Which is the better material for parking lot and driveway surfaces?" The answer may surprise nearly everyone. And if you are a property or business owner, the results documented by industry experts as well as scientific studies are quite revealing.

According to Wikipedia, Discovery.com and Industry Sources, here are the latest findings. We'll start with Concrete Paving:

The Complete Details About Concrete Paving:

• - Concrete is more prone to cracking and buckling because it's rigid and dense design. Tree Roots, Ground Movements, Freeze Thaw Cycles and soil movement are huge contributors to concretes deterioration.

• - According to the Ohio Highway Commission, concrete costs of $70 to $100 per cubic yard were more than double the costs of asphalt paving. All Ohio highway paving is now done with asphalt.

• - Concrete paving of parking lot and driveway surfaces requires more time and initial cost than asphalt paving. This hold especially true the larger a project gets.

• - Repairs to concrete paving surfaces are more costly to repair than asphalt. They also don't blend as well as asphalt paving does. Especially after asphalt gets freshly seal coated.

• + Concrete paving last far longer than asphalt paving surfaces.

• + Concrete paving maintenance cost over time, is far less expensive than asphalt paving.

• + Concrete paving requires far less on-going maintenance to keep its strength.

The Complete Details About Asphalt Paving:

• - Asphalt requires continual maintenance including seal coating, striping, crack filling, and many other forgotten costs when deciding what type of pavement to install.

• + Asphalt Paving offers more flexibility giving a light advantage over concrete in terms of handling stress and cracking.

• -+ Asphalt is the easiest to use and most economical pothole repair product available. It can be applied as a cold patch, hot patch, and become a permanent solution for repairing potholes in a shorter amount of time than concrete and other more costly hybrid mixtures. Keep in mind that potholes are far less likely in concrete.

• + In addition to pothole repair, asphalt is used to repair parking lots, driveways, and roadways on a larger scale. The preparation for paving with asphalt is relatively easy, depending on the condition of the surface being covered. Asphalt paving can be done directly over the present pavement in many cases.

• + Asphalt is very strong, durable and weather resistant in addition to being resistant to damaging effects from chemicals

• - Only when the maintenance schedules are kept up.

• + Asphalt sets faster than concrete giving it a strong advantage in both cost and convenience for parking lot and driveway paving.

In summary,

Asphalt:

An environmentally friendly and recyclable paving product that provides many benefits for driveway, road, and parking area applications. With its upfront cost savings, it is by far the more popular choice for parking situations and driveway paving construction. However, those upfront savings are quickly lost with in the first 5 years of installation through ongoing and costly asphalt construction projects.

Concrete:

Also highly green in its recyclable qualities. Concrete paving is a long lasting, low maintenance cost product which looks great over time. Although typically more difficult and slightly costlier to repair, when that time comes. Over time the cost to maintain a concrete pavement surface is much lower. Over the life span of 20-30 years there will be even a larger saving on concrete constructed projects VS its asphalt counterpart.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Scott_Flores/647793

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4317975

Asphalt Paving Companies - Things to Know Before Calling for a Company

Asphalt pavements have the worst kind of treatment. With time, they start to weather. This often leads to creating mishaps while driving. A clean pavement is not seen much these days, and not many people are aware of asphalt paving companies. A perfect driveway with clean boundaries and a perfect landing for a car park is very much in need.

Most city streets have existing asphalt paving but they are not maintained properly. With natural pollutants such as smoke, air and rain, the pavements get corroded and the asphalt layer soon erodes off. A new coat of asphalt not only evens out the driveways but also ensures a safe and smooth journey. But have you ever wondered what it takes to zero on the right asphalt paving company for your project? It is no doubt a cumbersome job, but a little effort from your end will help you put your worries at bay.

For all driveways, the length and width is measured before getting quotes from various asphalt paving companies. The measurements are taken and the driveway is cleaned to remove dust and dirt for easy layering of asphalt over the existing layer. Most of the contractors quote estimates based on the exact measurements taken from the driveway. For repairing an existing driveway, the old layer of asphalt is scrapped off and the surface is cleaned and polished to put a fresh coat of asphalt mix.

If you had never installed a driveway earlier, you must remove all the grass from the respective area. There should be nothing but flat dirt in the region where you wish to install your driveway. If the dirt foundation is not strong enough, you should prepare one to avoid the asphalt from cracking with the passage of time. Without making a good foundation for a driveway, calling for an asphalt paving company will not be of much use. When you are done with making a strong base, invite quotes from different companies.

The asphalt contractors quote estimations based on the current cost of asphalt, labor charges, material costs and the overall expense for paving the driveway. The client can oversee a few more quotes from various other asphalt paving companies and make a better choice based on the estimate that tallies with the preferred budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Peyton_Stallings/832472

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5439966

Explaining Tire Scuff Marks on New Asphalt Pavement

Did you just have your driveway repaved with a brand new asphalt overlay? Or maybe a new layer of sealcoat? Or perhaps you are a company owner that just finished construction on a new commercial parking lot? Either way, you may start to notice tire marks as business or traffic picks up. Tire scuff marks are a common occurrence to newly-paved or seal-coated asphalt, and for many reasons. Before you pick up the phone to have a word with your paving company, it is encouraged to investigate a bit further, and find out why tire marks appear on newly-paved asphalt in the first place. Continue reading to learn what causes asphalt tire scuffing, and gain a better understanding of what to expect from your pavement.

Tire Scuffing

Fortunately, there is no need to panic about tire marks since they will eventually fade after a few months. There are several reasons why freshly-paved or seal-coated asphalt is subject to tire scuffing, but they can all be narrowed down to five specific ones. If you have questions about any of these causes, feel free to contact your paving company afterwards to discuss them in detail. They can give you expert information, answers, and advice regarding asphalt paving, sealcoating, and more. For now, start by reviewing the 5 most common factors that cause asphalt tire marks, below.

1. The Age of Pavement - New pavement, or pavement with a new layer of sealcoat, is more susceptible to tire scuff marks since it is still soft and malleable. As it hardens, tire marks begin to disappear. Asphalt requires flexibility to maintain maximum durability, but as it ages, it loses this attribute.

2. Outdoor Temperatures - The time of year affects the rate at which asphalt hardens after being laid. Hot weather will slow the curing process, keeping pavement soft and flexible a little longer than usual. And we already mentioned that soft pavement allows for tire marks. This is why most paving jobs are carried out in the fall and winter, when temperatures are cooler and pavement cures faster.

3. Vehicle Weight - New asphalt pavement that experiences frequent traffic from heavy vehicles, like trucks, buses, and vans, is more susceptible to tire scuffing. Stationary 180-degree turns, sudden braking, sharp turns, and trucks with power steering are common causes for tire marks..

4. Type of Tires - The type and size of tires play a major role in producing tire scuff marks in new pavement. Most standard tires can and will cause this to happen, but tires with aggressive tread patterns, steel-belted radial tires, and off-road trucks and SUVs will guarantee it.

5. Type of Asphalt - The type of asphalt will also influence the likelihood of tire scuffing on new pavement. Course aggregate is less likely to scuff, whereas, a thin sealcoat will.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Sarahbeth_Kluzinski/1326228

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9456109

Information About Commercial Asphalt Driveways

There are several reasons why many commercial property owners are paving their driveways with asphalt rather than concrete. Asphalt pavement comes with many benefits and advantages; especially when it comes to maintenance and repair. Asphalt is much more economical than concrete for this reason and more. On top of its flexibility and easy maintenance aspects, it typically costs less than concrete materials at most hardware and construction stores.

Although concrete paving can last up to 15 or 20 years without needing repairs, asphalt is still a trendier choice for most residential and commercial properties for a number of reasons. Continue reading to catch up on some important information about asphalt paving and why it is more popular than concrete these days.

Asphalt Pavement for Driveways

As mentioned before, concrete can last up to fifteen or twenty years without needing repairs; while asphalt paving may eventually require some upkeep after about five to seven years. There are several reasons why asphalt pavement can weaken or deteriorate. For example, elemental conditions, over-exposure, negligence, cars, and the surrounding natural environment call all have an effect on asphalt pavements. The following influences are common contributors to asphalt damage, pot holes, and wear and tear:

• Heavy Trucks, Cars, and Loads
• Substantial Water Saturation
• Constant Exposure to Moisture
• Harsh Storms
• Overgrown Tree Roots
• Poor Foundation
• Tectonic Plates
• And More

It is recommended to place sprinklers and watering hoses far from newly paved asphalt driveways. Also, large or old trees should be removed to protect new asphalt from tree root damage. Even if the tree seems like it will not be a threat, it is safer to remove it before experiencing asphalt damage from underground root systems. As soon as you see a pot hole or crack appear, it is suggested to take immediate action to prevent further wear and tear. The sooner an asphalt issue is acknowledged and fixed, the less expensive the repair will cost. You can purchase asphalt fillers and pot hole repair kits at local hardware and home good stores; however, it is highly recommended to seek out professional assistance from a licensed and experienced asphalt paving engineer. They can give you the best advice on asphalt maintenance and repair. If you do decide to repair asphalt driveway damages on your own, you can still ask a retail clerk at the store for extra instructions or advice. They too should know plenty of information about the product they are selling.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Sarahbeth_Kluzinski/1326228

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9670899

8 Benefits of Restriping Your Parking Lot

Parking lot lines are an essential part of a structured, organized parking lot. Over time these lines fade, which is why you have to restripe them every so often. Fading is caused by the amount of traffic your parking lot gets, environmental conditions such as sun exposure and weather, and the quality of the paint. For this reason, paving experts suggest that you should restripe your lines every 18 – 24 months.

Are your parking lot lines fading? Are you tempted to hold off on restriping until next year? These 8 benefits of restriping your parking lot may change your mind.

8 Benefits of Restriping Your Parking Lot

1. Appearance
One of the benefits of restriping is purely aesthetic – a restriped parking lot with vibrantly colored lines will improve the curb appeal of your business. It’s an easy way to give your business a facelift that everyone passing by will notice.

2. Organization
A well-striped parking lot is a well-organized parking lot. Residents or customers know where the driving lanes are and where the authorized parking spots are. Parking lot stripes provide guidance just like the stripes on the road.

3. Customer Satisfaction
Your parking lot is part of the service that you offer to customers, just like the features inside your building. By restriping your parking lot you are telling customers that their experience at your establishment matters and you want to provide them with the best customer service.

4. ADA Compliance
The Americans with Disabilities Act has certain guidelines for parking lot stripes. Depending on the number of parking spaces your lot accommodates, it must include a certain number of accessible parking spaces for cars and wider spaces for vans. Restriping can help you clearly designate these spots so you are complying with the law and providing the proper accommodations for your handicapped residents or customers.

5. Maximize Parking Space
Are you getting the most out of your parking lot space? If you’re not currently satisfied with your parking lot, a restriping company can help evaluate the space and suggest changes.

6. An Economical Update
All businesses owners look for ways to make their business more attractive to customers. Restriping is an inexpensive way to get an instant improvement.

7. Reducing Liability
Faded lines can be hard for some customers to see, which could result in accidents where you are at fault. These lines communicate crucial information such as where pedestrians can walk, who has the right of way, what areas to avoid, and where vehicles must stop. Faded lines can cause confusion and accidents. Visible, well-defined lines will lower your risk of these liabilities.

8. Compliance with Fire Codes
Fire codes require a designated fire lane in case of emergency, and this lane should be marked with the appropriate signs, curb markings, or pavement markings. Restriping can also ensure your compliance with fire codes.

As you can see, there are many benefits of restriping your parking lot, from aesthetics and customer service to reducing liabilities and complying with laws. If your parking lot lines are fading, it’s time to add restriping to your parking lot maintenance plan.

Article Source: https://www.integritypavingtexas.com/blog/8-benefits-of-restriping-your-parking-lot/

Seal Coating: Should Be of High Importance

Roadways, runways and pavements, all are prone to damage. Just imagine the number of people walking and number of cars passing over them. External factors like heat, rain and snow also add to their degradation. According to experts, maintenance work should be done quite frequently in order to avoid heavyweight expenses in the future. Especially, pavements are prone to severe damage. If you neglect minor cracks now, they might magnify sooner or later. Then, you might have to suffer huge expenses on a re-construction. If you do not want all that to happen, get a seal coating done for your pavement. It would help you enhance its quality.

If you are still considering seal coating callously, these following points might just change your mind.

• An effective coating helps in developing resistance. The pavement becomes resistant to UV rays. These rays penetrate into the asphalt surface and infuse damage in the long term. Therefore seal coating helps a lot in keeping the pavement penetration free. Moreover, it keeps many chemicals (that encourage degradation) away from the pavement. Isn't this quite a substantial reason to incorporate such coats on your pavement?


• These types of coatings help the pavement endure the weight of heavy vehicles passing over it. You must have noticed huge cracks due to the pressure of vehicles on certain pavements. This particular coating is specially designed to endure the heavyweight.


• This coating makes the surface of the pavement extremely smooth. A spell of rain would be enough in clearing up the entire surface. Moreover, you have to invest even lesser in getting the pavements clean.


• Coatings are waterproof. They do not let water seep into the base level. Moreover, the smooth surface discourages water stagnation.


• Seal coated surfaces are friction free. Drawing traffic lines and guidelines would be extremely easy. Certain service providers provide services for line marking as well. They do it flawlessly.

Hopefully, these points should change the way you look at your pavement. However, there are certain points to consider as well.

1. Accreditation - The company should be recognized by the Better Business Bureau and should be appreciated by its customers too.
2. Experience - Don't settle with inexperienced companies. You might have to pay the price for improper seal coating.

So, keep these points in mind before even taking a step ahead towards seal coating for your pavement.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phineas_Gray

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6596370

Know the Basics About Your Asphalt Driveway

Ever wondered about the ins and outs of your asphalt driveway? Asphalt paving is made from heated stone aggregate. When heated, some of the aggregate melts, holding all the tiny stone and sand pieces together. When the mixture is laid in the paving process, it appears as tar, a dark black substance which is sometimes also referred to as blacktop when cooled.

Asphalt driveways have become the norm in North America. But did you know that originally, driveways were most commonly made from concrete? You may wonder why the change in practice from concrete to asphalt? It was found that asphalt driveways are much more durable and flexible and therefore longer-lasting. Asphalt has the ability to adapt to the different seasons and the elements they bring with them, which means something significant to the Canadian homeowner.

Know the benefits of each type of drive way material. The nature of asphalt offers a variety of benefits to your driveway and your pocketbook. First, it is flexible and durable as mentioned above. It also has an absorptive quality, allowing it to absorb more heat in the summer months. It's also less expensive than your other options, including the less appealing concrete mix. While other options may be more appealing, it is possible to create a decorative look by imitating cobblestone or brick by stamping the asphalt and colouring the mix. Finally, an asphalt driveway can give your home or workplace the look that you, your family, friends or clients will respect and enjoy.

It's critical that your driveway is both cost-effective and easy to maintain. Finding a reliable service company is important for this reason. Take the time to do so now and save yourself time and money in the years to come.

Making repairs is possible. Is the driveway or parking lot you own beginning to crack and crumble? Although asphalt is durable and flexible, extreme temperatures and heavy vehicles can cause fissures which demand fixing. If you find there is a problem, from potholes to faded yellow lines, repairing your pavement will keep everyone safe. Plus, your asphalt driveway or parking lot is more than just a space to drive on. It presents an image to your guests. Because of this, it's worth putting thought, and maybe even a little money, into.

You can also keep your asphalt paving up to par and avoid complete re-dos by engaging in maintenance activities including routine resealing and occasional upkeep such as washing stains with dish soap and water. Washing and resealing will protect the smoothness and the shine of your asphalt.

Wondering about asphalt driveway costs? You could always find a company that offers free home visits and quotes. That way, you could discuss the best options for your home or commercial space with an expert and get all your questions answered before the process begins.

Feeling confident about any decision regarding your asphalt driveway and walkway is important, as its outcome will affect the confidence you have in your home or workplace.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sergio_Calla

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7196527

Crack Sealing and Pavement Repair

http://vacavetstriping.com/

Pavement cracks need to be filled and/or sealed to prevent water from entering sub-grade layers. Special rubberized materials are applied to the cracks, which seals the pavement and helps to prolong its life.

Application of pavement crack treatments consist of three basic steps:

• Cleaning the cracks
• Cutting the reservoir if needed
• Installing the material

Sealing treatments are used for pavements that primarly have working cracks greater than 1/8 inch. Sealing treatments consist of creating a widened reservoir to provide proper geometry and placement of flexible material that can accommodate the expected movements.

- Sealcoating, crack sealing, striping and pavement repair. We do it all.

- Filling Asphalt Cracks in your asphalt driveway or parking lot surface will be a very important part of extending the life of your asphalt surface.

- The forces of nature do their best to break down the surface, creating cracks and potholes, which decreases the life of your driveway or parking lot. We specialize in maintenance and repair to help you extend the life of your asphalt.

Call Vaca Vet Striping at 707-592-8331 for an estimate

Advantages of Sealcoating

Find out the benefits that seal coat offers to your asphalt parking lot or driveway and what the recommended frequency is.