Asphalt is the most wide-used paving material in the U.S. Extensive networks of asphalt roads were constructed in Europe in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, stuff but the U.S. was a bit slower to begin paving highways with asphalt. Beginning soon after the Civil War, however, asphalt became extremely popular, and today, an estimated 95 percent of all American roads and streets use asphalt pavement. Despite its widespread popularity, asphalt is still the subject of numerous myths. Paving companies, including MH Greeson Paving, would like to show the facts!
Asphalt: Fact or Fiction?
Myth: Asphalt pavement is nothing more than a temporary solution.
Fact: A well-built, properly designed asphalt pavement can last many years. Asphalt overlays routinely see lifespans of 20 years or more with adequate maintenance. Many roads have lasted more than 50 years. One example is the New Jersey Turnpike. It was constructed in 1951, and engineers expect it to last many more years.
Myth: Asphalt plants pollute the air.
Fact: No one will argue that early asphalt plants belched out unpleasant, potentially toxic fumes. However, many decades ago, the asphalt industry began voluntarily developing better filtration systems and adopting strict guidelines for protecting the environment. As a result, the EPA does not list asphalt processing and manufacturing as an industry that produces any significant air pollution or soil or water contaminants.
Myth: Asphalt is not an environmentally friendly material and is seldom recycled.
Fact: Every year, more than twice as much asphalt is recycled in the U.S. than paper, aluminum, plastic and glass combined. Every scrap of asphalt pavement can be recycled. Furthermore, asphalt does not dissolve in water, and it is so safe that many cities use it to protect their public water supplies. In landfills, asphalt does not produce any toxins when it decays. In short, asphalt is extremely “friendly” to the environment.
Myth: Asphalt needs constant repair.
Fact: Asphalt needs proper maintenance, but so does concrete. Routine maintenance, such as sealcoating, can reduce the number of repairs needed. All pavements can crack, but with asphalt, repairs can be made quickly and economically if they are made in a timely manner.
MH Greeson Paving offers a complete line of asphalt services! While our home base is very close to Marietta, Acworth, Smyrna and Kennesaw – we cover the entire Atlanta area! A paving company that you can trust! We can help you plan your new construction, repair damaged pavement or provide maintenance, such as asphalt sealcoating, power washing, parking lot striping and crack repair. Call us today at 770-335-2983 or submit our online form for a free quote.
