Asphalt Paving and Maintenance

The aging process begins in your pavement as soon as the asphalt begins to cool. This because oxygen in the air and water reacts with the binders in the asphalt creating a chemical change. At first, this process is necessary for the pavement to harden. If this process is not arrested however, a complete deterioration of the binders in the asphalt will take place over time reducing the pavement to a layer of loose aggregates. Environmental factors such as gas and oil spills, sun oxidation, salt, water penetration, and hot or cold weather all contribute to this ongoing determination.

In order to maximize the life of your asphalt surface it is important to develop a pavement management program involving routine inspections and ongoing preventative maintenance. The following are common asphalt maintenance procedures:

• Repair and Patching
  Patching is a common asphalt maintenance procedure that involves saw cutting and removing the damaged areas and replacing it with new asphalt. This procedure can be done in lifts depending on the depth of the pavement. Once the new asphalt is luted and rolled into place we can crackseal the edges to ensure that water does not penetrate into your existing base and sealcoat over the entire pavement surface to create an even and professional appearance.
• Infrared Repair
  Infrared technology is an efficient and cost effective solution for some asphalt repairs. This unique method uses infrared rays to heat the damaged pavement surface to 325 degrees for 5-10 minutes depending on the depth and existing aggregate. Once the repair area has been heated, failed aggregate will be removed and new material will be raked and graded in. Once the fresh material is in place the repaired area will be compacted with a multi-ton vibratory roller and/or vibratory plate tamper.
• Resurfacing 
  Resurfacing is the most permanent of all pavement solution. After re-surfacing your existing pavement you will have a brand new parking lot or driveway. The process of completing an asphalt overlay consists of several steps including cleaning the area prior to performing work, leveling low areas, milling transition areas, adjusting all drainage structures, and many others unique to each site. Contact us to request an on-site evaluation.

In addition to routine inspections and ongoing maintenance, sealcoating slows pavement deterioration by protecting against elemental factors such as gas and water. However, for maximum benefit, sealcoating needs to be applied approximately 12 months after the initial application and then on a regular basis, about every 24 to 48 months, thereafter.