Although asphalt pavement is a remarkably durable substance, there will probably come a time when you are not certain what you need to do to make sure that you obtain the best return on your investment. Here are some of the questions Asphalt Paving Solutions paving contractors hear frequently.
Asphalt Paving Solutions – What Should Be Included in a Maintenance Plan?
Routine maintenance is important to ensure that your asphalt pavement reaches its full life and looks attractive throughout. Some of the maintenance will vary by the use to which your pavement is intended. For example, if you have a parking lot, you might add pavement markings and oil stain removal to your maintenance plan. For all types of pavement, however, your routine maintenance should include crack repairs and sealcoating. Depending on the traffic your pavement receives, you may need to adopt a different schedule, but the typical plan is to repair cracks at least once a year and sealcoat every other year.
What Time of Year Is Best for Sealcoating and Repairs?
Most asphalt professionals in North Georgia prefer to handle sealcoating and crack repairs between the middle of spring and the middle of fall. However, if the weather permits, work can often be performed at other times of the year.
Why Do All Contractors Seem to Quote Different Prices?
Although there can be a variety of reasons for different contractors to quote different prices, the most common reason is that they are not quoting on identical products and services. For example, one contractor might be planning to use a lower grade of materials; another contractor might have misunderstood the customer’s instructions regarding the area that is to be serviced. Always make sure that you compare the details of the quotes before making a decision.
Since Asphalt Is Waterproof, Why Should I Worry About Standing Water?
Puddles of water on your pavement are unattractive and annoying to your visitors, but the real problem is that water poses a potential risk to your pavement. It is true that water will not harm asphalt pavement itself, but if it penetrates to the foundation supporting the pavement, it can erode it. Once the foundation is compromised, your pavement can fail.
Does Sealcoating Do Anything Besides Improve the Pavement’s Appearance?
Yes, sealcoating’s primary function is to protect your asphalt pavement. The sun’s rays can leave asphalt pavement dry and brittle as well as faded. Sealcoating blocks the harmful UV rays to prevent asphalt pavement from deteriorating prematurely. Sealcoating also helps protect your pavement from damages caused by corrosive chemicals such as automotive fluids.
Will My Area Need to Be Closed Very Long?
The length of time that your area will need to be closed to traffic depends on the type of work you are having done. However, one of the great things about asphalt pavement is that installation and repairs typically require very little time. Once completed, the area can normally be reopened as soon as the following day.
How Long Should I Expect My New Pavement to Last?
The life of your pavement depends on its traffic and the quality of the maintenance it receives. For example, a residential driveway should have a longer life than a busy interstate that carries a high volume of truck traffic; a parking lot that is professionally maintained will have a longer life than one that receives little care. That said, on average, a parking lot that is properly maintained should last for between 20 and 30 years; a neglected one has an average life of 10 to 15 years.
If My Pavement Is Badly Cracked, Will I Need to Replace It?
Cracks are not always an indication that you need to tear out your old pavement and rebuild it. The number of cracks, the condition of the foundation and the type of cracks should be evaluated by a reputable contractor to see if an overlay is possible. An overlay is a layer of asphalt that is applied to existing pavement after cracks are repaired. It will have the appearance and performance of a new pavement, but it is more economical.
My Pavement Has Interconnected Cracks Resembling a Reptile’s Scales. Can Those Be Repaired?
This damage pattern is called alligator or crocodile cracking. It is almost always a sign that the foundation has been damaged. This means that the damaged pavement will need to be removed to access and repair the foundation. If the alligator cracking is confined to a relatively small area, it can be repaired. However, if your pavement has extensive alligator cracking, you will probably save money by have the entire pavement replaced.
How Much Should I Expect to Pay for Work on My Asphalt Pavement?
This is a bit like asking how much a new house should cost without specifying how big a house you need, what features you want or where you want it built. Select several reputable contractors and ask each for a quote. After comparing the quotes and checking references, choose the contractor with whom you feel most comfortable even if his quote is not the lowest bid.
MH Greeson Paving is an asphalt paving company in Marietta and the Atlanta area. We provide professional asphalt maintenance services to customers throughout most of North Georgia. Whether you need seal coating, parking lot striping, crack repairs or another asphalt-related service, we can provide you with exceptional work at affordable prices. To request a free estimate, submit the online form or call (770) 335-2983.
Asphalt Paving Solutions – MH Greeson is here to help!
We service the cities of Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Smyrna, Acworth, Cartersville, and Kennesaw, GA!
