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, potholes, 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 pothole 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 pothole 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.

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Happy Holidays!

May the holiday season bring only happiness and joy to you and your loved ones.

Benefits of Installing an Asphalt Parking Lot for Your Business

If you are a business owner, chances are that you have given the interior of your business more weight in terms of finishing and overall appeal while you have neglected the surrounding areas. Even then, you will be surprised to learn how important facade is when it comes to attracting customers.

As such, it is advisable to pay attention to the exteriors, such as driveways by making them appealing to the eye. In most instances, the majority of residential and commercial driveways are finished with concrete or asphalt. Asphalt is particularly a preferred choice for many people, as it is about 30-40 percent cheaper compared to concrete.

The benefits of asphalt are much greater than concrete. Here are some reasons why asphalt driveways are a must for your business:

Flexibility – When compared with concrete, asphalt is more elastic and able to withstand severe weather conditions. The liquid asphalt component allows asphalt to remain flexible, and better able to handle expansion and contraction.

Resilient – Asphalt is best equipped to withstand wear and tear resulting from high traffic that is common in many commercial establishments. Furthermore, it requires less maintenance making it an ideal choice of materials for your surface.

Aesthetic value – Not only does asphalt have a smooth surface, but it also looks cleaner. Asphalt can also be freshened up with a coat of asphalt sealer, restoring its original appearance. In addition, it is liquefied making it customizable. Thus, you can easily stamp in designs as well as decorations.

Environmental friendly – Asphalt driveways contain reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) that is 100% recyclable. RAP refers to old asphalt that is usually milled from pavements that have reached the end of their service life. Asphalt binder is used in the RAP meaning that a minimal amount of virgin asphalt and petroleum are used. Consequently, less mining aggregates are used. Other environmental benefits include cooler asphalt temperatures and reduction of storm system basins. Moreover, when in its porous form, asphalt requires less energy for manufacturing, significantly reducing odor, emissions as well as smoke.

Economical – Asphalt paving is usually less costly upfront compared to concrete paving. In addition, choosing asphalt for your driveway is cost-effective in the long run. That is, it reduces the overall lifetime cost of a paving project. Asphalt helps to reduce the demand on storm sewers effectively eliminating some of the local government impact fees. Apart from a quick installation that allows traffic to return in the shortest time possible, the long-term repairs and maintenance costs of asphalt are also low. On the other hand, concrete takes long to lay and set, this can result in loss of business. In terms of repairs, a crack on asphalt can be repaired inexpensively and quickly.

Versatile – The installation of asphalt driveways can be done over time depending on availability of funds. Thus, when traffic loading increases, installation can be done at night or during off-peak times when there is minimal disruption of traffic. Asphalt layers may be on a needs basis.

Safe – Asphalt driveway construction can only mean shorter lane closures translating to more safety for vehicles as well as workers within the work zone.

When completed, asphalt driveways offer other benefits over concrete driveways that include the following:

• They are skid resistant as they offer high friction due to the use of durable aggregates.
• The surface is smoother compared to cement.
• The surfaces greatly reduce the degree of spraying and splashing during storms. This improves driver visibility.
• The black asphalt surface also aids in a visible delineation of pavement markings and lanes.

Investing in an asphalt driveway is a good move as the benefits far outweigh the initial investment. If anything, asphalt driveways will attract potential customers to come to your business where they can engage you more thus, adding value to your business.


Article Souce: http://www.asphaltadvisor.com/2016/05/benefits-of-installing-asphalt-parking.html

Why Landscaping Experts Recommend Asphalt Sealcoating

Creating a driveway on your property is important to help you protect your lawns. However, when creating driveways or pathways, it is imperative that you make use of durable materials like asphalt.

As of now, asphalt driveways and pathways are very popular. However, there are cases when homeowners may notice unsightly issues. Thus, landscaping experts recommend homeowners to opt for asphalt sealcoating. With this solution, homeowners can obtain wonderful features that can benefit them. Below are some of the following.

To prevent small cracks

One of the reasons why landscaping experts recommend asphalt sealcoating is to prevent small cracks. Cracks on asphalt are caused by numerous factors. These include moisture, ground movements and erosion, excessive weight as well as improper installation. Fortunately, cracks can be eliminated by using sealcoating. This solution can also hide patches and rough areas.

To reduce damages caused by chemicals

The next reason why landscaping experts recommend asphalt sealcoating is to reduce damages caused by chemicals. This is possible since asphalt sealcoating fills surface voids, which reduces exposure to oxygen and UV rays and reduces the depth to which oil or gas can penetrate the asphalt. Other than that, sealcoating can also prevent oxidation and erosion of the top layer and replaces fine particles lost from the asphalt surface due to oxidation on older pavements. And, it also resists gas, diesel fuel, oil, salt and chemical penetration which will break down the bond between the aggregate and the liquid asphalt.

To eliminate water damage

Using asphalt sealcoating can also help homeowners eliminate water damage. Water can easily damage asphalt since it enters the asphalt. Because of this, moisture can be formed which can affect the quality and reliability of asphalt. By using sealcoating, you can prevent water from entering the asphalt since it can protect the surface properly.

To improve aesthetics

With the use of sealcoating homeowners can also improve the aesthetics of their asphalt. Due to aging, the color of the asphalt fades. However, sealcoating can protect its color since this solution is dark and black colored when applied.

To reduce maintenance costs

Finally, landscaping experts can also reduce their maintenance costs when using sealcoating. When it comes to repairs, asphalt repairs can be expensive since you need to hire specialists in order to properly remove cracks and other asphalt issues. On the other hand, sealcoating can easily leave a smooth, clean surface ideal for sweeping, which lowers cleaning costs and for a driveway and gives your entrance a fresh and new look.

These are only some of the benefits that homeowners can obtain when investing in sealcoating solutions from reliable landscaping experts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Johnny_Carlino/1802518

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Four Tips for Asphalt Maintenance

Maintain your asphalt and extend its life with these tips

Your Driveway - The Stages and Solutions

Your driveway will go through a lot of changes from the time it’s new to the day you have to replace it. Each stage requires a different plan of action and the list below will help steer you in the right direction.

Stage 1: Preventative Maintenance

For the first few years, your driveway will only need preventative maintenance, sealcoating and crack filling every other year. Your driveway will stay in Stage 1 for as long as the cracks are not interconnected (alligatoring) and are not accompanied by settlement. Find a good local Sealcoater that will provide a written estimate.

Stage 2: Surface or Base Defects 

Your driveway has entered Stage 2 when sealcoating and crack filling alone will not take care of the problem areas. The driveway may have settled at the garage or curb (very common) or developed spider/alligator cracking or potholes. At this point, you’ll need an asphalt repair to get your surface back in shape. Call an asphalt repair company that can either perform infrared repair or saw cut and remove repairs. Then every other year sealcoating and crack filling regimen mentioned in stage 1 should continue throughout stage 2.

Stage 3: Replacement or Resurfacing 

When 20% or more of your driveway is in poor condition, it’s probably time for a new surface. At this point, repairs are no longer a cost-effective alternative. If you find yourself saying my driveway has potholes, cracking or settlement all over, it’s time to start over with a new driveway. Call a paving contractor and ask them whether you need complete removal and replacement or if resurfacing over your existing surface may be an option. There are certain circumstances that can make a case for repairing a driveway that’s in very bad shape. You may not have budgeted for a new driveway, but have some areas that can’t wait. In that case, just repair the very worst areas to get you by until a new driveway is in the budget.

A typical driveway will last 10-15 years, but this can vary due to the quality of the initial installation, poor drainage, ground movement, and proper maintenance. The key is to find quality contractors that will recommend the right process for your driveway’s condition, regardless of whether they provide that service or not.

Article Source: http://www.asphaltadvisor.com/2013/10/your-driveway-stages-and-solutions.html

The Importance of Parking Lot Line Painting and Pavement Marking

In business today it's important to be professional. This includes the upkeep of property maintenance inside and outside of the business. Parking lot line painting is one of the most important aspects of external property maintenance and this article explains three excellent reasons why.

1) Appearance

The parking lot of a business acts as a welcome mat for customers and can often act as a first impression to new clients. If the parking lot pavement markings are worn and barely visible it may give the impression to some clients that the owners are irresponsible or that they don't care about the way their property looks. Parking lots simply look better with a fresh coat of high grade traffic paint on the stall lines, handicap symbols, arrows, speed bumps and any other pavement markings the lot might have. When line painting is done it allows that mat to say "welcome" again.

2) Parking Organization

If there is no visible lines to indicate parking spaces in a parking lot, people will park anywhere and everywhere they can fit their vehicle. This is not good since it increases the chance of people getting boxed in and unable to get out of the lot. When parked vehicles are in disarray it can also increase the chance of dings and scratches to vehicles if navigation around the lot is tight and difficult. Parking stalls and drive lanes have regulated sizes for these reasons and a nicely painted lot keeps the parked traffic organized and moving vehicles can be driven through the area safely and easily.

3) Space Maximization

I can't count the number of times I've seen 20 vehicles in a "full" parking lot that could easily fit 24 or 25 automobiles if it had been given the correct line painting job done. It doesn't seem like much but let's say it's a restaurant that averages $50.00 per bill. That adds up to about $200.00 - $250.00 in revenue. This to me would be the most frustrating parking problem for the business owner since most of the time if people can't park at the establishment, they don't shop there either. Painting proper stall lines allows optimal space maximization that fits as many vehicles as the parking lot can safely manage.

These are three basic problems that can be easily avoided if the correct pavement markings are applied to the lot. As long as parking lot line painting is done by professionals it can be one of the quickest and effective aspects of external property maintenance.

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

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Happy Thanksgiving!

 Wishing You and Your Family a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Why You Sealcoat Your Asphalt Driveway

Do you own a commercial property with an asphalt parking lot or a private residence with an asphalt driveway? If you do own or manage some type of asphalt pavement you will need to take proper care of the surface. In the long run, it will save you time and money. While taking proper care of the pavement does have some cost associated with it, it is not near the cost of having to later fix any damage that has already occurred to the asphalt. If you notice that you already have potholes or large cracks starting to appear, it is in your best interest to address the issues as soon as possible.

The first step in maintaining an asphalt pavement is crack sealing, crack sealing prevents water from entering the pavements sub-base through cracks in the asphalt surface. If these cracks are left untreated they will eventually turn into potholes and destroy the asphalt surface and the base beneath the asphalt. Once you allow this to happen there is no maintaining the asphalt, you are now looking at having to replace the pavement. It is important to clean the cracks thoroughly before filling them. You will need to clean out any and all debris. This will help ensure the material adheres to the surface correctly. Once all of the cracks are completely cleaned and filled with the asphalt fill material, water will no longer be able to enter beneath the pavement down to the sub-base material. By using this technique you have increased the lifespan of your asphalt pavement in the most beneficial and cost-effective way.

Sealcoating your parking lot is definitely a great way to protect your asphalt surface as well. Sealcoating your asphalt will help protect against the suns ultraviolet rays and also keep any water from entering small cracks in the pavement. The asphalt sealcoating material needs to be mixed to the manufactures specifications. The sealcoat material needs to be applied in two coats. The first coat of sealer should be applied with a squeegee to push the sealer into the cracks of the pavement. The next coat may be applied using a spray technique. The spray of the sealcoat ensures a uniform coat over the entire asphalt surface. Be sure to allow the proper drying time of the sealcoat before using the asphalt pavement. Sealcoating of the asphalt surface should be done as necessary to help ensure the lifespan of your asphalt surface.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6173707

The Benefits of Proper Parking Lot Maintenance

If you own a business, you can't afford to ignore proper parking lot maintenance. Sure, it might not be the first thing you think of. But it makes sense when you think about it. 

After all, your parking lot is the first physical aspect of your business that customers come into contact with. Shouldn't it paint a flattering picture? 

Likewise, if you don't keep up with regular maintenance, you're actually putting your customers in danger. Potholes, for instance, can ruin vehicles or cause customers to trip and get hurt. 

There's also the matter of safety to consider. But these are just the tips of the iceberg. To learn more about the benefits of parking lot maintenance, make sure to watch this video.

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 they're 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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What's In Asphalt?

A brief introduction to the "recipe" for asphalt pavement.

5 Reasons to Repair Your Asphalt Parking Lot

While a small crack or pothole in your asphalt parking lot may not seem like a big deal, think again.

Not only can small asphalt cracks and potholes grow into more expensive repairs, but they can also affect your liability as a business owner.

In this blog post, we will go over the five reasons you should hire an experienced Clarkston asphalt repair contractor at the first sign of damage to your commercial parking lot.

1. Avoid Liability
As a commercial building owner, you need to keep your parking lot well-maintained to avoid being sued. If a customer damages their vehicle or suffers personal injury because of large potholes and cracks in your parking lot, you will be held legally responsible. It is your responsibility to keep your parking lot safe and functional for customers. To repair asphalt potholes, you’ll need to call an asphalt paving contractor.

2. Prevent Potholes and Cracks
Did you know that asphalt expands and contracts with fluctuating temperatures? If you don’t invest in proper asphalt parking lot maintenance, you could end up paying to repair parking lot cracks. Cracks in your parking lot will eventually weaken the structure, making asphalt potholes more likely. Not only are cracks and potholes an eyesore, but they can also decrease the number of usable parking spaces in the lot.

3. Save Money
Making small repairs to your parking lot is less expensive than having to prematurely replace your parking lot. When you invest in parking lot maintenance, you won’t have to worry about your asphalt pavement deteriorating over time. No one wants to pay for parking lot replacement if it can be held off. If you take proper care of your parking lot, there’s no reason it shouldn’t last for up to 20 years.

4. Attract Business
Nothing detracts from the curb appeal of your commercial building more than a crumbling parking lot. If your business depends on being able to bring in new clients or encourage repeat business, you’ll need to focus on setting a good first impression as soon as they pull into the lot. Customers will become frustrated if they aren’t able to find a usable parking space due to potholes. Potential clients might also assume that the condition of the parking lot is representative of how you run the rest of your business.

5. Increase Property Value
If you plan on selling your commercial property in the near future, you’ll want to improve the appearance of your asphalt parking lot. Potential buyers will judge the property as soon as they pull into the parking lot and won’t be impressed by large cracks and potholes. Buyers don’t want to immediately pay for asphalt parking lot replacement after buying a property. In other words, significant parking lot damage decreases the value of your property and makes it harder to sell.

Article Source: https://www.alliedasphalt.com/5-reasons-to-repair-your-asphalt-parking-lot.php

When Should I Restripe My Parking Lot?

Typically it's a good idea to restripe your parking lot every 18 to 24 months, depending on your location and climate. Restriping your parking lot enhances curb appeal and the safety of your customers.

If you own a parking lot, it is important to make sure that the lot is always in the best shape possible, naturally. You want it asphalt to be intact and sealed, and you want the stripes and spaces in the lot to be clear and bright. It offers a range of benefits for your parking lot and business. There are many times that you should consider restriping the parking lot.

Typically, it is going to be a good idea to restripe about every 18 to 24 months, at least. However, it will also depend on the location of your business, and a host of other factors.

For example, if you live in a climate where it snows, you probably rely on snowplows to come along and remove the snow from your parking lot. While this is beneficial to ensure that your parking lot is up and usable for the customers, it also means that there is the potential for those plows to scrape away some of the lines in the parking lot. In those cases, it is generally going to be a good idea to restripe annually. After the last snow of the year has gone, set up an appointment to have your parking lot restriped or paint new parking lot lines yourself.

After Sealcoating

If you have had asphalt repairs and sealcoating on your parking lot, then you are certainly going to need to have restriping completed before you can open up the parking lot to your customers. The sealcoating is going to cover up the lines, so once it has dried, you will need to make sure that you have someone come out to add the stripes to the parking lot.

Keep Up With the ADA Code

In addition, you will want to be sure that you keep up with the requirements from the American Disability Act. This will indicate what you are going to need in terms of disabled parking spaces, and you need to be sure your parking lot is fully compliant. In some cases, this might mean having a striping company come out to your parking lot as soon as possible to make the updates to help bring the parking lot up to code.

What Are the Benefits of Regular Restriping?

For starters, you want to think about the curb appeal of the property. Having nice clean and easy to see lines in the parking lot is going to make it look better. We’ve all seen old parking lots that don’t have lines or whose lines have faded over the years. They look neglected. If the owner doesn’t care enough to take care of the parking lot striping, it typically means they do not care much about the buildings and stores that are in the parking lot, or the rest of the upkeep they should be taking care of.

If you are planning to resell the property, not painting the strips and improving that curb appeal is going to hurt the resale value. It might seem like a small thing, but it is very important. It will help to show that the business is well cared for, and that can help to make getting a sale easier.

In addition, there is a safety factor that you have to think about when it comes to the parking lot. If the parking lot has not properly been striped, it means that people are not going to know where to park properly, and this can cause confusion and an element of danger in the parking lot. You need to have clear parking spots and directional lines in your parking lot for the safety of the vehicles and drivers, as well as pedestrians that are walking through the parking lot.

And if you've ever been in a parking lot in a snowstorm, you know that not being able to see the parking lot lines means people put a lot of space between their cars and you get fewer of them in a lot. If you have a busy business, using every parking space affects your bottom line: make it clear to your customers where they can park.

High traffic parking areas often add reflective glass beads in the stripes, which are going to be easier to see in the evening when headlights hit them. These can add an extra layer of safety, and they can be a nice solution for many types of parking lots, including airports and hospitals.

Get In Touch With Professionals Or Do It Yourself

Now that you know why and when you should be restriping your parking lot, it is time to get in touch with a company that can take care of the restriping for you. Always make sure that you are dealing with professionals who have the right equipment and who understand ADA compliancy. Many times, the same company that you hire to take care of the asphalt repair and the sealcoating will be able to offer the restriping services you need. It could be a good idea to have one company that can take care of everything needed for your parking lot.

Article Source: https://blog.asphaltkingdom.com/when-to-restripe-parking-lot

Repair or Replace? What To Do About Your Aging Asphalt Parking Lot

Nothing lasts forever, and asphalt is no exception. There comes a time with every parking lot where you need to ask whether it’s time to repair it, or replace it altogether.

A properly paved asphalt lot can last 20 – 30 years, but the lifespan and condition of any lot depend on many factors. Let’s take a look at the various kinds of damage and repairs, and when you should replace a lot entirely.

The Types of Asphalt Damage

Cracking
Cracking can take many forms, including shrinkage, widening, edge cracks, slippage, alligator cracks, and reflection. Cracks are caused by many different factors, such as water penetration, oxidation from the sun, freezing, and thawing, and poor initial construction. Even the most minor cracks should be sealed as soon as possible, as small cracks can grow into bigger problems. Water or other debris can settle inside, causing the crack to grow, softening the base, and further threatening the integrity of the pavement. Larger cracks may be a warning sign of deeper issues.

Rutting
Rutting is when the pavement shows depressions, or grooves, from wear and tear caused by wheel loads. Ruts can be dangerous, leading to vehicles hydroplaning (from ponded water) that can result in loss of driver control. They can also be a result of deeper sub-soil or design problems, and lead to further deterioration. Ruts less than ⅓ inch deep can generally be left as is, but deeper ruts should be leveled and resurfaced.

When It’s Time To Repair

Crack Sealing
Crack sealing is exactly what it sounds like – filling small cracks to prevent further damage. Cracks that are straight or less than a quarter-inch wide can easily be repaired with a liquid filler. Before sealcoating or resurfacing, all cracks and existing damage must be repaired, so crack sealing is the first step towards further repair and necessary ongoing maintenance responsibility. A yearly schedule of crack sealing is best to prolong the life of your lot.

Seal Coating
After you’ve filled any cracks, you can apply a layer of sealcoating. Sealant keeps the lot looking new and prevents corrosion from a variety of elements, including water, oxidation, UV rays, and oil and gas spills. The ideal time to seal asphalt pavement is when deterioration is first discovered. A new asphalt lot should not be sealed until it is at least 6 months old, and should be resealed every 2 – 4 years, depending on weather and amount of traffic.

Resurfacing (aka overlaying)
Resurfacing, also known as overlaying, adds a new layer of asphalt, generally 1.5 – 2 inches in depth, on top of the older one. If done right, a new layer of asphalt can add 8 – 15 years to your current lot and costs less than a full replacement. All cracks and damage to the old layer need to be repaired before resurfacing, as un-repaired cracks will undermine the new layer. Resurfacing in cold weather can lead to premature deterioration, so the rule of thumb is to pave when temperatures are 50° F and above. Just because a lot is showing serious wear and tear and cracking, that doesn’t mean it needs to be replaced. Resurfacing is a great option to improve the condition of your lot without spending a lot of money.

Mill and Resurface
Resurfacing sometimes is not an option due to existing drainage patterns. When this is an issue milling and resurfacing may be a viable choice. Milling the surface involves the removal of the top layer of asphalt (usually 1” to 1.5”). Once the asphalt is removed, it is then replaced with a new layer of asphalt. Though this is one of the more expensive repairs, the quality of the final product and the service life can rival that of a new parking lot.

When It’s Time to Replace
Sometimes, a parking lot is beyond the point where even resurfacing will help. The answer to whether you should repair or replace essentially comes down to the condition of the lot’s base. Resurfacing is only as good as the surface it is layered on top of. If your parking lot is failing due to an underlying design, structural, sub-soil, or construction issue, none of the resurfacing options listed above will solve the problem in the long term. Though the parking lot will initially look better, the “repair” will be short-lived.

If a parking lot is approaching 20 years of age, or if 25-35% of the total surface area is in need of removal due to significant damage, it is generally more economical and effective to completely reconstruct the parking lot. With proper maintenance, your new lot can last another 20 – 30 years.

Proper evaluation and recommendations are critical to avoid any financial missteps in getting your parking lot back on-line.

Article Source: https://www.gleassociates.com/repair-or-replace-what-to-do-about-your-aging-asphalt-parking-lot/

Asphalt: Best Choice for Driveway Pavers

Oftentimes, when you travel, you see well-paved roads which make the trip a whole lot easier and comfortable. Ever wonder how these roads are built? Well, it is apparent that most of the roads around the country are part of an asphalt paving project that was completed sometime in the past. It's not surprising that among numerous choices for paving, asphalt is often the top and the most popular option. It clearly differs from other paving materials, such as concrete, simply because it's more versatile and economical too. Definitely, it is among the most common substances in use today. Not only is it used in paving roads, parking lots and driveways; it is also used in coatings, batteries, adhesives and asphalt shingles in roofs.

Like other paving materials, asphalt requires a specific process and skilled workers to apply the material properly to achieve a smoothly paved surface. It is also durable and waterproof in nature. Apart from being a bit messy, it is relatively easy to pour, flatten, shape and finish. It's notable that it hardens quickly, too. Ideally, it is used in regions where the weather is dominantly cold throughout the year. This would prevent the paving material from softening, which happens only if used in places with extremely hot climates.

A good number of homeowners choose to have asphalt in paving or repaving their driveways. Apparently, it is the most economical among all driveway options. It won't be hard to install as well. However, hiring highly skilled and experienced paving contractors can be quite a challenge. Make sure that the company has a good reputation and previous projects which are exceptionally done. Don't simply trust the contractor who offers the cheapest price. Remember that among them all, a percentage is scam artists.

It is best to hire contractors who are certainly up to the job so your paving project can be completed right on schedule. Some of these companies even offer free estimates. Keep in mind that while you're concerned with the job done on time, it is also vital that the workmanship is indeed good. It will ensure that you don't have to repeat the project and you won't worry about repaving your driveway for a long time.

The advantages of using asphalt apart from other pavers are quite evident. Its being cost-effective is perhaps its best benefit. Other pavers such as concrete are also a good choice, but it's mostly good for warm regions. And if you'd rather go for a stylish option, you can have bricks as pavers.

Choosing pavers is totally up to you, but you can definitely opt for asphalt if you want a quality and practical choice for your paving project.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5643794

New Asphalt Repairs Its Own Cracks

They're a common sight on many roads and the bane of motorists' lives, but potholes could soon be a thing of the past thanks to nano-technology.

Researchers in Switzerland have patented a method that repairs stress-induced cracks in asphalt to prevent potholes forming in the first place and could double the life span of roads embedded with the technology.

A precise amount of iron oxide nanoparticles are mixed with bitumen - the sticky, viscous black binder obtained from crude oil and used to keep road material together.

Ever-so slightly heating up this asphalt using a small magnetic field melts the bitumen, allowing it to seep into the minute cracks to 'self-heal'.

How to Know When to Seal Coat or Repave Asphalt Pavements

What is the most cost-effective resurfacing solution after repairing cracks, potholes and depressions in asphalt driveways and parking lots

By Jeff Lax

When it comes to old, worn asphalt driveways and parking lots, commercial real estate owners, property managers, and even owners of single-family homes struggle with the same questions: Do we repave or sealcoat after making repairs to cracks, potholes, and depressions? What is the most cost-effective and durable solution?

The industry has debated this issue for decades, and what has been learned is that each option has lasting, dramatic effects and that they actually complement one another. That’s the information pavement maintenance contractors need to convey to their clients who are trying to decide which pavement maintenance option best suits their needs and property.

Sealing

Sealcoating is one of the most important steps to protecting an owner’s investment in an asphalt driveway or parking lot. Sealers consist of emulsions that combine asphalt or refined coal tar with clays, mineral fillers, and water. Once applied, the water evaporates and the emulsion hardens to form a protective coating. It also becomes a beautiful black surface that adds curb appeal, giving a single-family home, multi-family residence, or commercial or industrial property a polished look. Industry experts agree that driveways or parking lots lacking the sealer can generally last only five to six years before the beginning stages of breakdown.

Initial sealing should occur six to 12 months after the asphalt surface is laid to allow the pavement to “cure” so oils can escape and the surface becomes ready for sealer. The initial sealer application forms a barrier to prevent water penetration and to inhibit deterioration of the asphalt binder by oxidation and over-drying.

As unprotected pavement ages, the asphalt binder hardens, losing flexibility and becoming increasingly brittle. Ultraviolet rays from the sun break down the carbon bonds in asphalt, further weakening the pavement. Also, daily and seasonal cycles of heating and cooling cause the pavement to expand and contract. These stresses eventually exceed the pavement’s ability to flex, and cracks form. If water seeps into the cracks and freezes, the cracks expand, allowing more water to penetrate, making the cracks wider and deeper. This cycle leads to accelerated deterioration of the parking lot surface. Early sealcoating can prevent all these preliminary dangers to the life of the asphalt.

Sealer is typically the most cost-effective solution and should be reapplied every two to three years as preventative maintenance. In fact, several government and Asphalt Institute studies have shown that neglected asphalt pavement can cost up to five times as much to repair as asphalt that has had a regular maintenance program, including sealcoating.

Pavement maintenance begins by filling cracks, patching deteriorated areas, and cleaning (and possibly priming) oil-saturated spots on the pavement surface. The asphalt also must be cleaned of dirt and debris before sealer can be applied.

While some homeowners sealcoat their driveways themselves, professional contractors not only apply a high-quality sealer material but also have professional equipment such as crack cleaners and power blowers that often enable them to perform a longer-lasting, high-quality job. Plus, professional contractors can handle other pavement repairs that a homeowner won’t be aware of, so property managers at any level will be best served by hiring a pavement maintenance professional to handle their pavement.

Repaving

Repaving is the only decision for driveways or parking lots that have severe deterioration, deep wide cracks, subsided depressions and numerous potholes.

An asphalt overlay consists of a compacted layer of one-and-a-half to two inches of hot mix asphalt being placed over the existing asphalt, essentially giving the driveway a new surface. Just as with sealcoating, the first task is repair of existing pavement. Areas, where the pavement surface has slumped, indicate failure of the stone foundation supporting the pavement. These areas require digging out existing asphalt, and repair and compaction of the stone base with new material before patching with asphalt mix to prevent trouble spots from returning after repaving. Then an overlay is placed over the old surface. No sealcoating should be added for six months to a year, just as with any newly constructed pavement.

And while an asphalt overlay can begin to deteriorate within five to six years without maintenance, it could last up to 25 years with regular upkeep. The upside to installing an overlay is the pavement has a renewed wearing course, providing a pliable, flexible surface. Also after the overlay, the maintenance program can start over, leading to a virtually brand new drive or lot. However, extreme weather, heavy loads, and shortcuts during construction could lead to premature wear and failure. The downside of repaving is that it is expensive (typically thousands of dollars more than sealing). Plus, if the original asphalt isn’t properly cleaned and prepared, cracks and uneven sections may return, as well as other problems that may not have previously existed such as delamination of the overlay because of poor adhesion to the old pavement.

What’s Better for your customer?

The amount and regularity of repaving will differ from climate to climate, and even when asphalt is maintained properly an asphalt overlay will be needed every 20 to 25 years.

Regardless of whether you repave or repair, sealcoating is one of the most important aspects of any pavement maintenance effort as it protects asphalt from weathering and degradation and extends pavement life. Without sealer, the asphalt could require an overlay in as little as five to six years, costing thousands of dollars. When comparing costs, industry experts believe the best investment a homeowner or commercial property owner can make is a well-tailored maintenance program that includes regular sealcoating.

Article Source: https://www.forconstructionpros.com/pavement-maintenance/preservation-maintenance/sealcoating-equipment-materials/article/10303124/how-to-know-when-to-seal-coat-or-repave-asphalt-pavements#&gid=1&pid=2

How It's Made: Asphalt Pavers

How It's Made: Asphalt Pavers

Vaca Vet Striping Specializes In Striping For Small Or Large Jobs

https://vacavetstriping.com/

Vaca Vet Striping offers a full range of parking lot and road services, we strive to improve quality through innovation, technology, and our vast experience. Our fleet of service trucks and professional parking lot stripers allows us to perform jobs in a timely manner.

About Our Process
Vaca Vet Striping has the latest equipment and products to ensure the highest quality in painting clean, sharp lines and well defined edges.

Our Striping Services Included

• Parking stall lines
• Directional arrows
• Handicap stalls
• Paths of travel
• No parking
• Fire zones
• Entrance / Exit signage

Repairing and Maintaining Asphalt Driveways

Failure to take care of your driveway will cost you more money down the road. A properly maintained asphalt driveway can last up to 30 years. Filling cracks and holes when they appear and sealing your driveway every 2-3 years will help ensure the life of your driveway.

How to Protect Your Driveway

Driveway sealing is an easy and cost-effective way to protect and prolong the life of your driveway. Asphalt surfaces are particularly susceptible to wear and tear, both from weather and from automobile traffic, and the grade of asphalt commonly used on driveways is even more so. Driveway sealing at regular intervals gives your driveway the added protection it needs to last longer and resist deterioration.

Needs Regular Upkeep
If you’re not sure on this point, consider the constant upkeep the asphalt roads in your community need in order to stay in good shape. Add to that the fact that the asphalt used on roads is generally a higher grade and made to withstand a higher level of abuse than the asphalt typically used in driveway applications, and you can see why it’s important to keep up on regular maintenance, including asphalt sealing, in order to fend off major projects such as repaving a crumbling asphalt surface.

The Benefits
Sealing your driveway has many benefits when it comes to preserving your concrete driveway. First and foremost, a properly applied driveway sealer repels water, perhaps the single most harmful agent when it comes to deteriorating asphalt surfaces. Concrete has a natural tendency to crack if water is allowed to permeate it, and this tendency is only increased by the weight of cars regularly driving over it. Once those cracks appear, water further damages it, especially in cold climates where it expands and contracts with freezing temperatures.

Other enemies of your driveway include sunlight and oxygen, both of which hasten corrosion. By regularly applying a quality driveway sealer to your concrete you can prevent water, sunlight, and air from permeating your asphalt and prevent these problems. As an added benefit, driveway sealing also repels oil spills and leaks and makes it much easier for you to sweep and clean your driveway surface.

When to Apply
As a general rule, you should seal your driveway every 1 to 3 years. More specifically, if you can see the color of the individual stones that make up your asphalt surface, you know it’s time to seal it up. A few rules apply before you seal, however. For starters, never seal a new asphalt driveway. Asphalt needs a minimum of six months for the oils in it to evaporate. The less oil, the harder the driveway, which is the goal. If you apply driveway sealer before your asphalt has time to cure, it won’t achieve the necessary hardness and all your work will be for naught. Other things to consider are the outside temperature, which must be fifty degrees or higher for the sealer to adhere properly, and the weather. Ideally, you want your sealer to be on your driveway for at least 48 hours before any rain comes down on it.

Talk to a Professional
Driveway sealing is an important aspect of asphalt driveway maintenance, however, it’s not the only thing you need to keep up on. If your driveway has pre-existing cracks, potholes or other signs of wear, it’s vital that you fix those problems before you apply a sealant. That being the case, your best bet is to contact a professional that won’t only apply your sealant, but who will also evaluate your driveway for other maintenance needs that need to be addressed before you perform this necessary task.

Article Source: https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/how-to-protect-your-driveway/

Is Your Parking Lot ADA Compliant?

Accessible parking spaces to be 9’-0” wide with adjacent 5’-0” wide aisle on passenger side. Perimeter of access aisle to be painted blue. Within border hatched lines at 36” on center. “NO PARKING” to be painted in each access aisle in 12” high letters.

Source: http://ada.ashdownarch.com/?p=78

If your parking lot is not, or if you're not sure, give Vaca Vet Striping a call! 707.592.8331 

We specialize in striping for shopping centers, business complexes, apartments, and private roadways. Whether you have a small job of just two parking stalls or a multi-acre parking facility, V.V.S. will provide professional and timely work.

The 5 Cost-Saving Benefits of Sealcoating your Parking Lot

It takes 7 seconds for people to form a first impression of your business. That doesn’t give you a lot of time to be impressive.

Talk to any real estate agent and they will tell you about the importance of curb appeal when selling a property. The same is true for your business. you might not be looking for someone to buy your business, but you do want to attract customers to buy your products.

As soon as your customers drive up to your location, they’re already forming their first impressions. Sealcoating your paved parking lot is an excellent way to keep up your curb appeal and make a positive impression.

Let’s look at several benefits of sealcoating your parking lot.

1. Water-Resistant
Asphalt is a durable and long-lasting substance. That’s why it is popular for roads, parking lots, driveways, and more.

However, water is a big enemy.

Asphalt is a porous material. This means that moisture can get down inside the asphalt. When it does, this speeds up degradation and deterioration of the pavement.

In the winter months, this is further exacerbated by freezing temperatures. If you remember back to high school science class, water expands as it freezes.

So when the temperature drops, any moisture that is trapped in the asphalt can freeze and expand, causing cracks and damage to the asphalt.

Sealcoating the asphalt will diminish this effect significantly. The sealant protects the asphalt by creating a barrier that water can’t penetrate.

Snow and ice sitting on top of the asphalt can also cause problems. Not only can it be dangerous by causing cars to slide out of control, but also having water sitting on top of it constantly exacerbates the water exposure problem.

Sealcoating helps make snow and ice melt faster — protecting both your pavement and your customers and their vehicles.

2. Oxidation-Resistant
Water isn’t the only danger that asphalt faces. The sun is another element that your asphalt parking lot will face daily that can cause damage.

Asphalt contains a mix of oils that keep it supple and helps it maintain its flexibility. Constant sun exposure can dry out these oils, in essence, “baking” the asphalt. 

At first, as the asphalt dries out it may simply be more prone to cracking. Eventually, the material will become so brittle and weak that it can begin to crumble away.

Obviously, that type of disrepair isn’t the kind of impression you want to make on your customers!

Sealcoating helps slow the evaporation of the oils and keeps the asphalt “hydrated” for a longer period of time.

3. Chemical-Resistant
Asphalt is also exposed to a number of different chemicals. Cars can leak a variety of fluids including oil, gas, antifreeze, brake fluid, and more.

Just like water, these liquids can seep down into the porous asphalt. Depending on the substance they can cause even more damage than plain old water.

When you sealcoat asphalt, the same barrier that inhibits water from getting down into the pavement keeps these other liquids and chemicals out and minimizes the damage they can cause.

4. Replace Asphalt Less Frequently
What do the first three benefits we’ve talked about mean for your parking lot? Simple. You won’t have to repave it as frequently.

Though asphalt is durable and long-lasting, if you want to keep your parking lot in tip-top shape, you’ll need to replace it periodically. Remember, curb appeal is important for your business and a shoddy parking lot doesn’t make a good impression.

But replacing asphalt is an expensive and tedious process.

The weather/temperature has to be just right otherwise the asphalt won’t harden as it should when it cools. Rain can also complicate the installation as water exposure will cause significant problems with the asphalt before it solidifies.

It’s also an inconvenience. Your customers may not be able to use the parking lot while it is being repaved. Depending on your location, that could mean that you’ll have to close your business completely during the installation.

This means not only an expensive maintenance bill but also you’ll miss out on sales — hitting your wallet even harder.

Sealcoating your parking lot is a far less involved project. It won’t take as long and it isn’t as expensive. And it will drastically lengthen the lifespan of your asphalt, cutting down on how often it needs to be replaced.

In short, sealcoating is certainly preferable to the inconvenience of replacing asphalt.

5. Aesthetic Appeal
Aside from repairing cracked or crumbling asphalt, replacing your asphalt has one big benefit. It looks so nice afterward!
Fresh asphalt has that dark, smooth finish that looks so sharp and screams well-maintained. Unfortunately, it begins to fade to an ugly gray over time and with exposure to the elements.

Did you know that sealcoating creates that same dark look? It also helps maintain that look for a longer period of time due to the benefits we’ve already mentioned.

A fresh application of sealcoat will cover small cracks and other imperfections. It also goes on black — just like asphalt. So you get the fresh dark look, without the hassle of installing new asphalt. Simply paint the lines back on your parking lot and it will look brand new!

Find Your Sealcoating Professionals
Ready to breathe new life into your parking lot without going to the expense and hassle of replacing the asphalt? Then it’s time to look into sealcoating.

Article Source: https://www.mdpavingpros.com/the-5-cost-saving-benefits-of-sealcoating-your-parking-lot/

Vaca Vet Striping Specializes In Striping For Small Or Large Jobs

https://vacavetstriping.com/

Vaca Vet Striping specializes in striping for shopping centers, business complexes, apartments, and private roadways. Whether you have a small job of just two parking stalls or a multi-acre parking facility, Vaca Vet Striping will provide professional and timely work.

Do You Know The Advantages of Sealcoating?

With warm weather, comes maintenance and repairs to parking lots and driveways. Sealcoating your parking lot or driveway is an easy way to extend the life of asphalt and improve the curb appeal of your property - saving you money in the long run. If sealcoating is avoided, a crack can start forming in the asphalt, which then leads to potholes.

Some benefits of sealcoating asphalt include:

• Reduces long term repair costs
• Accelerates melting of snow and ice on the pavement surface
• Protects your pavement from oxidation, oil and chemical spills
• Protects against water penetration, rain, frost and snow damage
• Enhances the appearance of your building and landscape
• Prolongs pavement life, safeguarding your investment

Article Source: https://www.wolfpaving.com/advantages-of-sealcoating

More Than Just Price - Choosing a Paving Contractor to Install Your Driveway

Paving an asphalt driveway may seem like a simple task to some people. Basically, you just get a couple of companies out of the phone book to give you an estimate and then pick the cheapest one right? Well, not if you're concerned about the craftsmanship or making sure you get what you pay for. This is the number one mistake people make when choosing a contractor. Before you call any company do some research first. Information is readily available 24 hours a day on the web. Stay away from people that knock on your door. You will never ever get a good job from someone telling you he has an extra load of asphalt from a job up the street. These people are called travelers and never deliver on what they promise. There is plenty of info on the web regarding these types of people.

Try to zero in on companies that specialize in residential asphalt drives. Commercial contractors excel in putting down lots of asphalt really fast, but usually, fall short of a homeowner's expectations when it comes to details. Review a company's website, check them against the BBB or other reporting agencies, and compare your notes about your research. When you look at their website, be sure to pay really close attention to the details you find both in the content and in the pictures on the site. You want to see what kind of work they are capable of, and you want to be confident they fully know what they are doing. You'll also be able to make sure they have adequate equipment if they have good pictures. Once you have 1-3 good companies with a clean history and a good reputation now is the time to talk to them and request a bid. Always get a written proposal. This makes sure both parties' expectations are clear and known. It also helps protect you if a legal matter ensues.

When reviewing the bids pay close attention to the entire proposal; including the letterhead that it's composed on. Sloppiness or inadequacies on paper now may be what you'll get on your asphalt driveway too. Be sure that everything you expect from your paving project is included in the scope. Make sure you understand everything that is taking place. Be sure you understand how the job will be scheduled, how thick the driveway will be after the asphalt is compacted, how much rock will be installed prior to paving, and the dimensions or square footage. Signing a contract means you have accepted what is in writing. If something is left out, make sure you get an amended contract.

Before you sign a contract you should take some time and use good judgment to compare the estimates. Price should never be your number one concern. We'll discuss price in a moment. Take an opportunity to ask a contractor for referrals that best match the design of your job. Some companies keep a cheat sheet of their best referrals, but you should insist they provide you with 1-2 jobs nearby that best match your own asphalt driveway. You want this because you should be inclined to physically investigate what kind of work they do. Ask about jobs they might be doing in the area so you can personally witness them while in action.

How do you know what to look for when looking at a referral driveway that a company has already completed? Here are a few great tips that will bring you up to an educated level.

· Check all the transitional areas such as sidewalks, garage floors, and streets. These should all be flush, with no bump, and should have the proper thickness. Without these details, you will see water problems, or unraveling of the asphalt. These symptoms only get worse as time goes on.

· Streaking or pockmarks are a good indicator of a thin surface. This happens when there is not enough material to encapsulate the larger stones while paving. The larger stones will tumble and cause imperfections in the surface, or "mat".

· Seams and joints should be flush with each other, and barely visible (if at all) to an untrained eye. Seams and joints that are severely visible or are not evenly matched will fail prematurely.

· Exposed edges of the perimeter should be properly constructed. This is where most companies sink or swim. You should pay most of your attention here. Stand back and carefully look at the edges from a distant point of view. You should observe several aspects: The edges should be either in a perfectly straight line or consistently "flowing" with the turns. The edges should be properly shaped, beveled, or tamped in a consistent looking 60-degree angle. The edges should be compacted properly without looking "squashed" from the top. Without these characteristics, you will have problems later and it just doesn't look as good as it should.

· If you look at the job after a rainstorm, be sure there is no considerable ponding or puddling of water. If you do see water spots you can quickly deduce if they are too deep by measuring them with a coin placed flat in the water. The water should not be deeper than the coin.

· Last but not least, if the driveway was paved recently look for trash or debris left behind. This will indicate the level of cleanliness the crew is at.

You should really focus on the importance of inspecting past jobs by the company before spending your own money on having your asphalt driveway paved. By printing out this guide you can take it with you to create a checklist to write notes and comparisons on. Once you have done this, talk to the homeowner and ask how their experience was with the firm. If you are diligent about researching your contractors prior to hiring them, you nearly eliminate the chance of getting a bad asphalt driveway. It's your money, be sure it's well spent.

Certainly, ask your contractor about asphalt prices. Since early 2008 prices have gone up and down every month (typically up). Most paving contractors will not absorb a price increase. You and your contractor need to be in agreement with what will happen in the case of rising material costs.

Since we are on the topic of price now, let's explore a few matters. There are a few ways of eliminating contractors before price. Be sure they are completely aware of your expectations. Have they presented you with a solution that gives you the absolute best return on investment? Does their reputation meet what you are looking for? If you have done your homework and still are lucky enough to have several contractors to choose from, price now becomes an important focus. Ask about available discounts. Typically, discounts are usually for cash payment, multiple jobs are done at once (i.e. neighbor also needs a driveway), senior citizen, or repeat work. Also, inquire about getting free or discounted maintenance packages once they have completed your driveway. Ask about including other options such as crack barrier or curbing at a lesser amount. Before asking a contractor to directly drop his price, be aware of several things. If you have found a very good contractor, chances are they are very passionate about their work and may feel a bit insulted if asked to match another company's price. If you ask them to match a price and they feel as though their competition is as good as they are, a price reduction might be made to try to satisfy you. Be very considerate when asking for a direct reduction. These days it's very expensive and stressful to operate a successful paving operation. The last thing you want to do is cause your contractor stress that may influence how your driveway is constructed.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1882883

Asphalt or Concrete?

Asphalt or Concrete? This is a segment that was aired on the HomeWoRx television show with Gary Sullivan on network TV in Cincinnati, Ohio. Hear the pros and cons of installing an asphalt or concrete driveway.

Vaca Vet Striping has got you covered. We have over 30 years experience doing business as ACE Paving Company, with a General Engineering Class A Contractor’s License #389714. We strive to provide quality work and great service at an affordable cost. Vaca Vet Striping service area is Solano, Napa, Yolo, and Sacramento counties.

https://vacavetstriping.com/

3 Types of Damage Asphalt Sealing Prevents

Asphalt sealing is an important part of maintaining a driveway or parking lot made of this material. It should be performed every two to three years to protect the pavement from developing damage that could shorten its life span. If you miss this maintenance, you could develop one or more of the issues below.

What Can Happen When You Skip Asphalt Sealing

1. Freeze-Thaw Expansion & Fracturing
The winter can be absolutely brutal on asphalt, particularly due to the freeze-thaw cycle. This occurs when water seeps down into the pavement, freezes, and expands — resulting in cracks. As the water thaws, it will then creep even deeper into the material, repeating this process and leading to numerous fractures. Asphalt sealing prevents this by covering any small cracks in the material and keeping water out year-round.

2. Sun Drying
asphalt sealing cookeville tnWhen the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays beat down on asphalt, they damage it in a way similar to how they affect your skin. The chemical bonds in the pavement begin to deteriorate, leading to cracks and other damage on the surface. Asphalt sealing prevents this by covering the blacktop in anti-oxidation additives and other aggregates that act as a barrier.

3. Surface Softening
Since asphalt pavement is predominantly used by vehicles, it will most likely experience some auto fluid spills. When oil, gas, and similar liquids fall onto the surface, they will be absorbed by the asphalt and cause it to soften. While these spills can be easily cleaned up in most cases, overtime they can result in cracks or a deterioration of the aggregates comprising the blacktop.

Article Source: https://nearsay.com/c/516510/215844/3-types-of-damage-asphalt-sealing-prevents

Thermoplastics Installing by Vaca Vet Striping

http://vacavetstriping.com/

The application of linear striping, arrows, stop bars, and handicap insignias, etc. We use a plasticized material that when heated with adhere permanently to asphalt and concrete surfaces.

We understand the importance of quality asphalt maintenance and the importance of leaving a lasting impression to prospective tenants, home buyers, customers, and the general public.

Vaca Vet Striping has over 30 years of experience doing business as ACE Paving Company, with a General Engineering Class A Contractor’s License #389714. We strive to provide quality work and great service at an affordable cost. Vaca Vet Striping service area is Solano, Napa, Yolo, and Sacramento counties.

Sealcoating FAQs

Making an educated decision about maintaining your facility's asphalt surfaces can help prevent you from paying too much, getting a poor quality job and making a bad decision. Here are some commonly asked questions about seal coating commercial asphalt:

What if the price is too good to pass up?

Although a low price bid may be tempting, making an impulsive decision based solely on price can cost you later. Save money by hiring a reputable, paving or seal coating contractor. Make sure the company is well established - do they have a local address, a well-developed website and references? Also, it doesn't hurt to get several bids and check each company out thoroughly. Be sure to keep in mind, you usually get what you pay for!

Should we have this sealant applied every year?

No! Although many paving companies may lead you to believe that you should seal coat every year, seal coating your asphalt too much can lead to problems. The first two coats of sealer applied to your asphalt are what protect it. Additional coats are usually just for cosmetic purposes.

Should we seal our asphalt in the summer?

It is not appropriate to seal coat asphalt in hot weather. The sealer will dry too quickly causing it to peel, flake or get streaks in the finish. If the job needs to be done in hot temperatures, above 90 degrees, a good paving contractor will spray the surface with a light mist of water to cool the asphalt before applying the seal coat. Doing so will cool the surface considerably. Ideal temperatures to apply seal coat are between sixty and ninety degrees.

Can we just seal coat asphalt pavement ourselves?

Adding up the total costs of undertaking this project will give you the answer to this question. Basically, it's going to end up costing you more and you more than likely will not be thrilled with the results. Not only will sealer, sold by the pail, cost as much as five times more at local improvement stores, it is not the high quality as professionally mixed commercial sealer. Tools are often expensive and may not be of professional grade to perform the task properly. Prior to seal coating, the surface must be cleaned - a leaf blower and a hose won't give the professional results of a commercial blower and washer. Add in your labor time, and the fact that you'll probably ruin your shoes, shirt, pants and gloves - it really adds up. Using a professional, paving and seal coating company will only cost you a few dollars more that it would to do it yourself, and you'll be much more satisfied with the job when complete.

A well-paved asphalt surface can last 20-40 years if maintained at proper intervals. Save money by hiring a reputable, paving or sealing contractor. They can develop a strategy to maintain your pavement. Spending a little more now, can save you a lot down the road.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7345709

How Its Made - Asphalt Paving

How Its Made - Asphalt Paving

Credit : Discovery Channel

Why Asphalt Crack Repair Can Benefit Property Managers

Whether you manage a property for an individual or a corporation, your performance will be judged on many factors. Many of these factors depend on the type of property you manage, but one element transcends all property types: Are you helping the owner maximize profits by protecting the property’s assets? Although these assets vary, virtually all commercial properties have a parking lot that represents a significant investment. If you are not ensuring timely asphalt crack repairs for your asphalt parking lot, you could be jeopardizing that investment.

Why Asphalt Crack Repair Can Benefit Property Managers

How Does Crack Repair Help Protect an Investment in Asphalt Pavement?
Contractors build an asphalt pavement by constructing and compacting a stable foundation to support the weight of the pavement as well as the traffic that the roadway will bear. The foundation is a critical part of the pavement’s longevity. If the foundation becomes unstable, voids can develop that allow the pavement to subside. These voids can lead to the formation of potholes, large cracks, and alligator cracking. The leading cause of an unstable foundation is damage from water that leaked through cracks in the pavement. In most instances, an economical asphalt crack repair can prevent water penetration, averting costlier repairs and the premature demise of the pavement.

How Do Contractors Repair Cracks in Asphalt Pavement?
There are two basic methods that asphalt contractors can use to repair cracks. The method chosen depends on the nature of the crack. Both methods require the contractor to clean out the crack before introducing the repair material.

• Asphalt crack filling is the introduction of a fill material into the crack. Asphalt crack filler is somewhat rigid, so it is typically used for inactive cracks that will not continue to grow. Most block cracks and edge cracks are inactive, making them good candidates for asphalt crack filling. Some longitudinal cracks are also inactive, but most contractors prefer to use asphalt crack sealing for all longitudinal cracks.
• Asphalt crack sealing is often used for cracks that are less than an inch wide. As the name implies, this method seals the crack, preventing water and dirt from entering. Crack sealants are preferable for active cracks. Active cracks will continue to expand, but sealants are flexible enough to move with the pavement without breaking their bond. As a general rule, all transverse cracks will require sealing rather than filling. Some longitudinal, cold-joint and reflective cracks will also require the use of a sealant rather than an asphalt crack filler.

When Should Cracks Be Repaired?
Once a crack develops, you want to repair it as soon as possible. The problem is that you cannot restore a crack if you do not know it exists. A thorough visual inspection of your pavement every few months can help you identify issues, but you might want to consider asking your contractor whether he offers an asphalt maintenance program. Choose a program that provides a professional inspection at least once a year; it would be better to have an inspection in the spring and another one in the fall. The following tips can also help you protect your asphalt pavement.

• Hire a professional to apply sealant periodically. Sealcoating offers excellent protection against the sun and automotive fluids, but it is not a permanent treatment.
• Keep drains clean so that they can carry runoff safely away from your pavement. A clogged drain can force water underneath the surrounding pavement, leading to cracks and foundation damage.
• Keep your pavement clean. Remove trash, dead leaves, grass clippings, and other debris. Clean oil and other automotive fluids that may have leaked onto the pavement; they can soften your asphalt pavement, leaving it more vulnerable to damage.

Article Source: https://www.alphapavingtexas.com/faq/why-asphalt-crack-repair-can-benefit-property-managers/