Asphalt Paving surfaces provide safe and convenient access to homes, workplaces, events, and more. They also enhance property value.
Asphalt paving involves laying aggregate crushed rock, sand, and gravel bound together with asphalt, a sticky substance made from crude oil. A quality asphalt paving job starts with site preparation, including demolishing existing structures and clearing the area of debris.
Pavement Maintenance
Asphalt pavements provide a durable surface for vehicles and pedestrians. They also add to the curb appeal of a home or business. But, like any surface, they need regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Pavement maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs and replacements in the future.
An effective Asphalt Paving maintenance starts with regular cleaning. Sweep away dirt, leaves, and debris to prevent it from breaking down the surface and blocking drainage.
Next, a fabric interlayer can be installed for additional strength and support. The aggregate base should be graded and compacted using specialized equipment to prevent settling or shifting of the pavement in the future. Finally, hot mix asphalt is spread evenly and rolled over the prepared base with paving machines. The pavement is then lightly tamped for compaction and smoothness. A seal coat can be applied to protect the pavement from weathering and deterioration. This step is crucial for areas that receive a lot of traffic.
Repairing Cracks
Asphalt Paving is a durable and reliable paving material that requires yearly maintenance to keep it in good condition. If a parking lot or driveway is left neglected, cracks will develop, eventually allowing water to seep in and destabilize the surface. Filling cracks promptly can prevent this damage and save you the total replacement cost.
Before attempting to repair cracks, cleaning the area thoroughly is essential. This will help ensure that the crack filler adheres to the surface. Ensure any debris is removed and the cracks free from weeds and roots.
Afterward, fill the cracked space with cold patching material designed to work well on pavement surfaces. A good mix will fill the crack and provide a tight fit. The crack filler should also be able to expand and contract with outdoor temperature fluctuations, so choose wisely! A do-it-yourself asphalt crack filler will likely be less expensive than a professional repair, but it will only last for a while.
Sealing
Asphalt Paving is a reliable ground coating frequently used for driveways and other areas with heavy foot and vehicle traffic. It’s a cost-effective alternative to other pavement materials and can increase the curb appeal of commercial and residential spaces.
Proper maintenance of Asphalt Paving surfaces is the best way to extend their lifespans. Seal coating prevents water penetration, UV damage, and deterioration caused by oil and gasoline spills. It also improves traction and appearance, making your asphalt look new for years to come.
This process is one of the quickest and easiest steps in asphalt paving seattle, but it should be done on a sunny day to avoid rain before the mixture hardens. The Asphalt Paving contractor will pour the sealer in two thin coats, allowing the first to dry completely before applying the second. Then, they’ll squeeze or broom the sealer for an even and smooth finish. Using an asphalt sealer calculator is the simplest way to know how much you need.
Edging
Asphalt is a reliable surface material for residential driveways, parking lots, loading zones, and outdoor athletic surfaces like trails or basketball courts. It’s also an eco-friendly choice that reduces carbon footprints by using less energy to construct and repair than other pavement materials.
Asphalt Paving can also help reduce traffic congestion and vehicle wear and tear and improve water management by redirecting runoff to grassy areas. And its smooth surface makes it easy for tires to grip, reducing the risk of skid damage and accidents.
While the homeowner can do most maintenance tasks, significant repairs and edging are projects best left to a professional paving company. Professionals recommend installing Belgian block edging to create a crisp boundary around your asphalt driveway. These rough-cut rectangles of stone were first carried to these shores as ballast in the bellies of ships and can add an attractive finishing touch to your driveway.