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 holds 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 slight 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 within 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.

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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'.

Things to Consider Before Hiring An Asphalt Paving Company

The use of asphalt demands specific methods as well as tools. So when it's time for you to repave your driveway, the sidewalk of your business or even a parking lot, you have to pick an asphalt paving company that provides the absolute best service for your needs.

For a number of individuals, choosing an asphalt paving company appears like an easy thing to do. Usually, you only contact several companies over the phone, get a quotation, and then pick the cheapest one. Though this method may be acceptable for many, it's certainly not for someone who is after quality results, or if the work carried out is worth every penny spent. There are numerous points you need to consider before you pick a paving company for your project.

Listed here are several recommendations when choosing a good asphalt paving company

The first thing you want to do is to actually gather info about the outfit. Check the company's background, the number of years they have been in business, as well as feedbacks of their former tasks or jobs. It's similarly essential to find out if the company's license and insurance coverage are legal as well as in good standing. Ensure that the company is connected well for your own protection.

An additional important suggestion is to talk to the individual in charge, or ideally the manager of the company. You would want to speak with them with regards to information about the prospective job like the steps they will undertake when it comes to paving, how long the process will be, and other vital issues that you'd like talk about. This is your chance to obtain information concerning the business and it will make you determine whether this company satisfies your expectations.

Ask for an estimate before starting the task. Almost all businesses will undoubtedly support you with this particular demand. It will most likely help you to know if the budget you allotted for this certain project is good enough.

Ask the company if they provide an all-inclusive service. You won't want to use one company with regard to sidewalks and a totally different one for your driveways or parking lots. With regards to convenience, choose an outfit that can take care of all your needs.

It is extremely necessary to take into consideration the expertise of the asphalt paving company before hiring them. A legit contractor certainly has past projects that they will show off. You can attempt requesting some people who might have been former customers, or have worked with said contractor about how good the end result of their work is.

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Deciding Between Asphalt Paving and Concrete?

If you're thinking about paving a parking lot, driveway or road, and can't decide between asphalt paving and concrete paving, this article is for you!

Where concrete was once the preferred method for paving roads and parking lots, today, asphalt paving is the preferred choice.

Let's take a look at how concrete and asphalt are made to compare and contrast the features and benefits of each type of paving.

Concrete is made using crushed rock and sand aggregate, cement and water. As the mixture dries, the cement binds the concrete and holds the aggregate together. Once set, concrete is a stiff and unforgiving solid substance. However, if the surface beneath the concrete has not been made perfectly smooth, concrete is prone to cracking and breaking.

Asphalt is also made using aggregate. However, instead of using cement as a binder, bitumen, a dark, sticky substance derived from crude oil is used. To build a parking lot or driveway, hot asphalt is poured onto a layer of heavier aggregate and then pressed into it with a steamroller. Once cooled, asphalt is strong enough to withstand automobile traffic. While asphalt is extremely hard and durable, it offers enough flexibility to accommodate imperfections in underlying surfaces, a feature that concrete does not have.

The other advantages of asphalt paving over concrete or cement paving are numerous. One advantage over concrete is that removal and replacement of damaged asphalt is a relatively easy process in comparison to that of concrete. Asphalt is also completely recyclable. Due to the large demand for asphalt for recycling purposes, it is rare that this material will be sent to the landfill.

Another benefit to asphalt construction projects is that they can be finished and the roadways opened for traffic much faster and with a lot less expense than concrete construction projects. Additionally, maintenance and repair of asphalt pavement are quicker, easier and less expensive than that of cement pavement. In fact, repairing minor cracks in asphalt driveways and walkways can be so easy that, with the know-how, one person, by themselves, can complete a minor asphalt repair project in just one afternoon. A benefit in making the simple, inexpensive asphalt repair can increase the longevity of an asphalt surface significantly.

When more than just asphalt crack repair is needed, the solution still requires less time and money repairing asphalt paving over cement paving. Unlike concrete, which needs to be removed and replaced when significant cracks appear, asphalt can be resurfaced in much less time, and at a fraction of the cost.

Whether you're talking about new construction, maintenance, or repair -- asphalt paving is a better solution than concrete paving in almost every situation, saving you time and money.

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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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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

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Why Should Business Owners Maintain Their Commercial Parking Lots?

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

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

Prevent Serious Health Hazards

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

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

Improve Business Image

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

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

Protect Your Investment

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

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

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

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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.

Tips For Choosing Residential Asphalt Services

Improving your home adds to its beauty and value. When you are considering having work done at your home, it is always best to invest some time making the right choices about contractors and the quality of work they can provide for you. Choosing qualified asphalt services for your residential needs is important.

You may have in mind a long driveway to your house. Maybe you have repairs that need to be made to your existing drive. No matter what kind of paving services you require, finding someone you can count on for providing you with excellent services and quality work is essential. The company that can offer you references from previous customers is a good way to locate an established, reputable company.

Learning more about the company you may hire for paving work is important to make informed choices. Ask about the company's hiring process and if their employees are trained to use the various machines necessary in laying asphalt. You certainly do not want a driveway that is going to need repairs in a few months after it is put down.

Many homeowners have in mind the drive or parking area they want at their homes. However, bringing those ideas to life takes hiring someone with experience and the ability to work with you about your ideas. Finding out how long a company has been in business is important. The professionals that have been paving for more years most likely has more to offer you from experience.

Job bids are a part of the hiring process for quality paving services. Selecting the first crew you find is not the way to save money or get professional results. Meeting with at least three contractors on your property for bids is necessary to get the best estimates for making a comparison. Be sure you take bids only from the professional that has visited the site and looked at the job you need done.

When getting estimates, make sure you and the contractors are clear on the thickness of pavement you would like to have. This affects your cost. At the same time, being sure all your bids are for the same kind of mix and the same amount of it is important for making accurate comparisons.

Trustworthy asphalt contractors companies will give you a written guarantee for their services up front. You should also look for the professionals that carry insurance. Taking time to make a good choice is necessary for being happy with your results.

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Considerations For Resurfacing Asphalt Driveways And Parking Lots

Resurfacing or replacing of the material of a driveway or parking lot may be necessary after a period of time. This is quite different from sealing or other types of minor repairs. Although resurfacing will not last as long as the installation of new asphalt, it is an option that is considered by a lot of people because of financial concerns. As in most repair projects, the finished job will be determined by the level of preparation and the competence of the contractor.

In a complete tear-out, the old drive will have to be removed by the contractor. An initial layer of compacted gravel will then be applied, followed by a course of a compacted asphalt base. This layer is usually about two to four inches in thickness. The final layer of compacted material will then be applied.

During the process of resurfacing, the surface course of asphalt is installed on top of the existing surface of the driveway or parking lot. The two layers will adhere together easily because they are made with the same material. It is, however, important to consider why the driveway is failing before you choose this option. For instance, if the problem is from a weak base, adding a new layer will not be the right solution.

Asphalt can also be installed on a concrete drive. You do have to implement certain precautions so as to ensure that the concrete does not shift under the new surface. Proper preparation will ensure that this does not happen and the drive will last for several years. There are a number of things that you have to check in order to know if the existing concrete driveway is suitable. The blocks should be level, and the joints and cracks must be close.

No matter the type of installation that you want to do, there are certain things that you have to watch for. Drainage should be taken into consideration so that rainwater is carried to the street or to a catch basin. Water should not flow back into your garage or onto a neighbor's property. The contractor has to also ensure that the edges are properly supported.

It is vital to choose a competent contractor for your asphalt resurfacing project. You can evaluate the company's work by checking other driveways that they worked on a few years ago. No matter the company that you choose, make sure that a proper contract is drawn up.

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