Asphalt is one of the most durable and long-lasting pavement options available. When asphalt is properly designed, constructed, and maintained, the surface can remain strong and functioning for up to 20+ years. Asphalt is often less expensive, more flexible, and more resistant to cold than the other options.  2 basic ingredients make up Asphalt. The first are aggregates;  a mix of crushed stone, gravel, and sand and makes up roughly 95% of hot mix asphalt pavement. The second is bitumen, the black or dark viscous material that holds the aggregates together, and is composed of polycyclic hydrocarbons (a petroleum byproduct) and makes up roughly 5%.   Hot mix asphalt is produced under high heat and is the most durable. It is generally used in high-traffic applications.

Installation Of Asphalt:

Step 1: Preparation & Mark-out

Call Before You Dig, to get a full utility mark-out on the property. 

Step 2: Milling of Existing Surface (Unless it is just new earth)

To create a solid base for new asphalt installation in areas of compromise (Alligator cracks, potholes, etc.), it is necessary to remove any existing asphalt down to the sub grade. After removal then the sub grade is inspected for area of compromise to see if it needs to be removed and replaced as well.

Step 3: Grading and Base Materials

The sub-base is the most important part of the new asphalt installation. If your sub base is unstable, asphalt area will be unstable. The base materials give the support or foundation to your new asphalt.   We'll constantly evaluate the base materials during installation of the new asphalt to make sure it is properly compacted.  We ensure the proper slope so there will be proper water runoff when the paving is complete.

*Depending on the project, your project may also call for a binder layer. A binder layer is middle layer between the sub base material and the surfacing material. It is also used in any cut out repairs that are made prior to the surface mix being installed.

Step 4: Installation of New Asphalt

The surface layer of asphalt is ready to be applied.  We will bring in a Hot-mix asphalt, typically from a local asphalt plant. Asphalt is brought in by dump truck and transfered to an asphalt paving machine.  Asphalt is installed in passes that range from 8-20 feet wide. We use a laser guided paver with electronics to install a consistent layer of asphalt surface and maintain a cross slope for water drainage.

Step 5: Compaction of Asphalt

Pavement surface is compacted using an asphalt roller. Compacting the asphalt is the last step in the asphalt paving process.

Asphalt Maintenance:

Asphalt requires regular and ongoing maintenance such as Sealcoating.  Not only does Sealcoating provide a layer of protection to avoid cracking and environmental damage but it also provides a beautiful finish to keep your surface looking great over the years. 

Asphalt requires regular maintenance by Sealing (recommended every 3-5 years), abnormalities fixed (potholes, cracks, etc.), and Cleaning the Asphalt (broom, blower, powerwash, etc.).