Separate studies in Kansas, Ohio, and Iowa revealed that asphalt paving is more economical than concrete over a 40-year period. The Kansas result found about one-third cost savings, Ohio about 25 to 70 percent, and Iowa about 57 percent.
There are quite a few different mixture formulations of asphalt concrete. These are: hot mix asphalt concrete (HMA), warm mix asphalt concrete (WMA), cold mix asphalt concrete, cut back asphalt concrete, sheet or mastic asphalt and high modulus asphalt concrete.
Also known as bitumen, asphalt occurs naturally from rock asphalt and asphalt lakes, although today’s asphalt is processed from petroleum. Asphalt in liquid form is also called tar.
While asphalt is used all over the world, different formulations need to be employed for different climates. In tropical regions for instance, asphalt must have high tensile strength so it won't deform during the heat of the day.
Did you know that asphalt is America’s most recycled product? According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, asphalt pavements are being recycled at a rate of 99%, saving taxpayers at least $300 million annually.
Did you know that asphalt is recyclable? When asphalt is reclaimed, it can be reused to build new pavements, making it as valuable as the original material.
Alligator cracks appear in asphalt parking lots as the paving material contracts over time. Fortunately, they are easy to repair, restoring the look of your parking lot and protecting it from extensive damage.
Want a pavement that’s smooth, durable, and requires very little upkeep? Asphalt paving maintenance only involves periodic surface milling, which can be done every 15 to 20 years!
The Asphalt Pavement Alliance has awarded more than 80 pavements the prestigious “National Perpetual Pavement Award”. All of these pavements are at least 35 years old and were built before 1976.
According to studies, smoother pavements have 10 to 25 percent longer life expectancy. Because asphalt is smoother than other materials, maintenance costs are significantly lower as well.
Asphalt is a petroleum-based material that is commonly used to pave surfaces that handle vehicle and foot traffic. When properly installed, it stands up well to changing weather conditions and the extremes of summer heat and winter freezes.
The asphalt driveways and parking lots we pour should last at least 20 years under normal use and weather conditions. We have the proper equipment, skill, and expertise to lay durable driveways and parking areas.
One of the latest techniques for repairing asphalt pavement is using infrared heat. This method first softens the affected area so it can be scarified, and then filed with new asphalt. Finally, it is leveled and compacted to create a seamless repair.
Permeable asphalt is not subject to the same freeze/thaw cycles as cracked, impermeable concrete. With permeable asphalt, the bed is prepared in a way that allows water to soak deep into the ground, away from the surface.
While the quality of materials and the methods used to install new asphalt are important, the quality of the preparation is equally so. If the bed is not properly prepared, the asphalt will not sit properly and will deteriorate, compromising its projected service life.
It takes about a year for a new asphalt driveway to completely cure. This must be kept in mind when the weather heats up so that you do not accidentally create ruts or valleys in the surface. Only turn car wheels while vehicles are in motion and make sure motorcycle kickstands rest on blocks.
A tack coat ensures a bond between the succeeding layers of asphalt pavement. A slow-setting emulsion diluted 50/50 with water is used as a material for a tack coat.
Over time, with exposure to the elements, asphalt pavement becomes faded in appearance. A fresh sealcoat application is all you need to enhance its appearance and make it look new again.
How can the lifespan and durability of asphalt pavement be extended? Regular preventative maintenance is the key to keeping your asphalt surface looking great. Remove dirt and debris regularly, and clean it thoroughly at least twice a year.
Asphalt paving contributes significantly to noise reduction from tire traffic on roads and highways. Different asphalt blends are available that reduce noise-generating friction while still providing superior skid resistance.
Got asphalt? NASCAR does. In over thirty of its 35 racetracks, asphalt is the driving surface. In addition, almost 95 percent of all United States highways are paved with asphalt. Its economy and durability make it a smart paving choice.
Addressing cracks in your asphalt driveway is important. When water invades them and it freezes and thaws, it causes even greater damage. Cracks can be repaired by having a sealcoat applied or by laying down a new top coat.
