What is Asphalt Paving Resurfacing?
If you are thinking about replacing or repairing your asphalt pavement, you’ve probably heard the terms resurfacing or overlay. How do you know if this is a good option instead of total replacement, which is also referred to as reconstruction?
To help you make an informed decision, here are some quick bullet points for an overview on topic:
- An asphalt overlay is one and the same thing as pavement resurfacing.
- An overlay is the process of installing a new layer of asphalt over the existing pavement surface.
- The new layer, or overlay, is usually one and a half inches to two inches thick.
- Reconstruction or total replacement, again, both one and the same thing, refers to the process of installing both the top pavement overlay layer as well as the subgrade asphalt layer.
- Resurfacing asphalt pavement should be done when the base remains in stable condition.
- Resurfacing may be done when the surface has become heavily oxidized (as long as the subgrade is in good condition).
- Paving contractors will perform core-testing to evaluate the condition of the subgrade.
- Pavement overlays are not considered a good option when there has been excessive damage or alligator cracks to the pavements surface.
- It is more cost efficient and effective to reconstruct heavily damaged asphalt pavement than to install an overlay.
- Pavement should be last, on average eight to fifteen years depending on several factors, such as: the weather patterns, freeze-thaw cycles, how much heavy vehicular traffic the pavement endures, the thickness of the asphalt and the condition of the subgrade at installation.
Once you and your paving contractor make a decision on whether to repair or replace your asphalt pavement, it is important to talk with him about implementing a pavement maintenance plan. The better you take care of your asphalt pavement, the longer it can last. Paying attention to details like pot hole repairs, sealcoating, crack filing and even parking lot sweeping can make a world of difference in the lifespan of your asphalt pavement parking lot.
You may be wondering how can parking lot sweeping make a difference in the life span of my parking lot? Well, that’s simple. Cleaning off manmade debris and other natural materials such as leaves, soil and water protect the surface of your parking lot, which is critical to the health of your asphalt. When bottle caps, dirt and water is left standing on your asphalt, vehicles will pass over these items and grind them into the surface, again and again. Each dent, chip, and crack further the erosion process. This process is continued to advance by the suns rays oxidizing the surface, rainwater sitting on the surface and eventually seeping into the subgrade degrading it. Paying attention to the small things, like parking lot sweeping and sealcoating can help you avoid the bigger things, like total reconstruction of your asphalt pavement.
About ABC Paving and Sealcoating
With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida’s leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and pavement marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at https://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.