ASPHALT PAVING AND MAINTENANCE.
What sets us apart from our competitors we like to educate our customers.
Asphalt Installation
DRIVEWAY PAVING
There are two different methods we use to pave a driveway overlay and replacement.
Driveway Overlay
We start by repairing any potholes that may exist in the driveway and then clean the surface. Once the surface has been properly prepared, we cover the existing asphalt with two and a half inches (once compacted) of new hot asphalt. This method is more economical than replacement paving (about half the expense), but will only last a fraction of the time of a total replacement. The results will vary depending on the quality of the original asphalt.
Driveway Replacement
With this method we remove all of the existing asphalt with an excavator and dump truck, completely grade the base to ensure proper runoff and drainage. We than add base material where necessary and compact the entire base with a vibratory roller. The base material we use is called Item 4, or re-processed asphalt mixed with stone dust. These materials have excellent binding properties, and when used in this application form it is a superior underlay for the asphalt unlike sand, which does not compact well. This process is the backbone of the entire job, and when done properly will result in a mechanically sound driveway. After the base work has been completed, we then put down hot asphalt over the top of the base and compact it with a vibratory roller leaving, leaving three inches (once compacted). While this method is more costly than an overlay, it will also give you the most longevity and a more appealing finish. We also recommend sealing the new asphalt one year after the asphalt has had a chance to cure to prolong its life.
Asphalt Maintenance
Here is a list of the usual problems associated with an older driveway and how we repair them.
Patching
If there are any sink holes or potholes, we cut out the affected area with a mason saw, add a base material if needed, compact, apply tack coat to the edges of the hole. We then fill in the area with hot asphalt, and compact the new asphalt to the appropriate thickness with a vibrating plate compacter. This process ensures proper adhesion and long life.
Filling and Repairing Cracks
We prepare all cracks by blowing them out with compressed air to a minimum depth of one inch. We then apply hot rubberized crack filler. This material starts out as solid blocks of tar melted down at 300 degrees to its liquid form. We then fill each individual crack with the molten tar. As the tar cools and hardens, it expends into the cracks sealing them and making them water tight. While the tar is cooling we apply black beauty sand over the top of each crack to prevent debris from sticking to it.
Surface Cleaning and Preparation
In many cases simply sweeping with a steel bristled broom and blowing with a back pack blower is all that is required to remove dirt and debris from the asphalt surface leaving it ready for the seal coating to be applied. In more extreme cases pressure washing with 3600 psi pressure washer is necessary to remove oil and chemical stains from the surface, which will add to the price of the job. We then add petroleum deactivation to the oil spots to keep them from re-appearing.
Applying Seal Coat to the Driveway
Spraying Method
When using the spray method to apply seal coat, we first use a bristle brush around the entire border of the driveway to ensure a clean edge. We then spray the material through a spray nozzle to cover the rest of the surface. This method leaves a smooth uniform finish and is the most cost effective of the two.
Brushing Method
This method is simply done with a large bristle brush. When using this method more material is applied than with the spraying method and a brush like texture remains after the sealer dries. This method is considerably more labor intensive, therefore, it is more expensive than spraying.
Whenever you get an estimate for seal coating, be sure you know which method will be used. We use only high quality seal coat and add sand and surface hardening polymer to make our own custom blend.
Free Consultation & Inspection.
Why replace if it can be repaired.Often the right combination of patching, crack-filling and seal coating can give your driveway a fresh new look,without the full replacement cost. We offer free consultations for all of our asphalt services, so you can get expert advice and an accurate estimate for your project. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward enhancing your property .
Residential & Commercial Services.
We specialize in custom asphalt design to help you create a unique and functional outdoor space. Our team can help you design and install a beautiful new driveway, patio, or walkway that will enhance your property's value and curb appeal. Contact us today to get started.
