Posted by Jesse Willoughby on Wed, Mar 31, 2010 @ 01:23 PM
Here is a recent trench we completed in Newark, CA on Cedar Blvd. Check out the quick video shot of our crew working.
Posted by Jesse Willoughby on Wed, Mar 03, 2010 @ 01:19 PM
We all have certain misconceptions that we've heard over time, read on a blog, seen on TV, or just believed we had reliable information. I'd like to address some common misconceptions about asphalt, and the paving industry, that I've heard before.
Misconception 1: There shouldn't be any rocks showing in the asphalt.
When asphalt is made it has a few ingredients in it. It has crushed rocks and a mix of petroleum composites that are produced in oil refineries. The asphalt ingredients are heated up and then mix together. After the asphalt is placed on the ground, it can be different sizes. Typical rocks in asphalt are ¾ inch, some are ½ inch, and some are 3/8 inch. The different sizes will obviously have different appearance once it is spread and compacted. Because concrete usually has high sand and water content and is smoothed with a steel trowel it is a smooth surface appearance.
Misconception 2: Asphalt should be like concrete.
Some consider that most pavement surfaces are alike, when in reality they are made with different mixtures, ingredients, chemicals, and rocks. Asphalt is petroleum based and concrete is water based. There are different installation procedures, various equipment used, and concrete is more labor intensive than asphalt.
Misconception 3: The black top asphalt color will come off on my shoes?
Some people think that because it's hot, black, and looks like clay sometimes, that it will cling to your shoes. Asphalt, once installed and compacted should not get on your shoes. Seal coat, however when freshly applied will get on your shoes, so don't walk on it for 24 hours.
Misconception 4:Paving contractors always try to give you a change order.
We have been in business more than 20 years and the jobs that have kept us in business are not from change orders. The times a change order arrises into the project is when an unforeseen problem develops that was not part of the original scope of work. Paving contractors do not create the change orders, the issue that comes about as a surprise to everyone creates the change order. We are in business for the long term, not to make a quick dollar on a change order. We use high quality materials, well-trained employees, and well-maintained equipment and we are considered by current and previous customers as a reputable contractor. Feel free to read some testimonials.
Of course many misconceptions arise when expectations are unclear. To learn more visit www.hotmix.org