Asphalt Paving and Sealcoat  Blog

 

Repairing your driveway is not as simple as just backing a truck up to unload some asphalt and smoothing it out with a roller. There are some key factors to know about when you begin to get quotes for your asphalt driveway repair. If you want to make sure your driveway lasts as long as it should, it needs to be professionally designed, well-built, and properly maintained.

Let me give you three tips for to be assured you get a good quote and a great driveway.

1. Compaction is Critical

Compaction locks the asphalt aggregate together to reach stability and provide resistance to deformation while also reducing the permeability and improving its durability. The most important factor that affects the contractors ability to achieve proper compaction is temperature.  The compaction temperature of the asphalt is effected by the weather and wind which cool it at a more rapid pace, the asphalt thickness of the layer which helps it hold heat more or less, and the actual temperature at which the asphalt was placed on the ground. 

2. Lifts

The lifts (layer of placed asphalt) effect compaction and durability. The thicker the asphalt lift, the easier it is to compact and the longer it retains heat. The lift thickness should be at least three to five times the nominal maximum aggregate size. So, a typical thickness of the asphalt lift will be about three inches. A typical homeowners driveway is usually between 2.5" to 3" thick, with each additional lift placed in thickness of two to three inches.  It's important to have the lift thick enough to support the load of the traffic it is being built for. 

3. Seal coat

If you want a lasting pavement surface, the asphalt needs to be protected from water, oxidation, oil, and other elements that erode it. The National Asphalt Pavement Association recommends homeowners seal coat their driveway every two to five years to maintain a great driveway. You want quality materials with a good design, and then maintained using the best construction practices. Seal coating will extend the life of the asphalt and save money on "repairs" down the road. Oh yeah, we don't dilute our sealant with 50% water...that's just unethical and misleading. You can count on us to use the industry standard of 13-17% water. 

We like to say that pavement maintenance can be simplified. We'll educate you on the process, and help you have great curb appeal with a great driveway. You deserve a beautiful driveway to go along with your landscaping.