In the United States, an estimated 94 percent of all paved roads feature asphalt pavement. That is the equivalent of more than 2.5 million miles of highways, streets, rural roads and boulevards that use asphalt pavement to provide a smooth, safe surface for drivers. Asphalt pavement is chosen for its durability, looks and small environmental impact, but the primary reason for choosing asphalt is that it is a very cost-effective solution.
Why Asphalt Pavement In Atlanta Is Cost-Effective – The Reasons
Asphalt Pavement Is Also Economical to Install
From residential driveways to massive parking lots, property owners stand to save a lot of money by choosing asphalt pavement over concrete. The same is true for local, state and federal governments who are responsible for the construction of new streets, highways and roads. Since asphalt pavement can be installed faster than concrete, the costs are lower, but the newly paved area can be available for use much sooner as well.
Repairs to Asphalt Pavement Are Economical
Repairing a pothole in concrete pavement is a time-consuming task. Typically, the area around the pothole must be removed by using a jackhammer to break up the pavement. After the proper amount of concrete has been removed, it may be necessary to construct a form and install new rebar. Wet concrete is then poured and smoothed. Since the new concrete must cure before traffic can be permitted access, the area may need to remain closed for up to three days if only passenger cars are allowed and up to seven days if trucks are permitted. For comparison, a pothole in asphalt pavement seldom requires more than an hour or two to repair, and the area can often be reopened to traffic the same day and typically no later than the following day. The repair itself will be less expensive for an asphalt pavement, but businesses might also want to consider the money that they could lose if customers cannot have easy access to their stores for several days.
Asphalt Pavement Reduces Operating Costs for Drivers
In addition to saving money for those who build and maintain asphalt pavement, drivers can save money when they operate their vehicles on asphalt pavement. Tests have shown that a smooth asphalt pavement can reduce fuel consumption by nearly 5 percent. Fewer bumps in the road reduces the wear on vehicles, which also lowers operating costs.
Environmental Benefits of Asphalt Pavement
Asphalt pavement offers monetary rewards, but it is important to remember that it provides environmental benefits as well.
• Asphalt pavement is 100-percent recyclable and is the most-recycled material in the United States
• Since asphalt pavement is faster to repair, traffic congestion can be reduced, resulting in less air pollution from vehicles idling in traffic
• Asphalt does not contaminate the soil or the water supply, and it is so benign that it is often used to line reservoirs used for the public’s drinking water
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of asphalt pavement, contact MH Greeson Paving. We are an asphalt maintenance company serving the greater Atlanta area as well as many locations throughout North Georgia. Our services in the Atlanta area include asphalt paving, sealcoating, parking lot striping and asphalt repairs. Our jobs look better and last longer, but our rates are affordable — which makes us your cost-effective solution to whatever ails your pavement. Call us at (770) 335-2983 or submit the online form to receive a free quote.
