Commercial Asphalt Surfaces

Asphalt Installation

• The old asphalt material is removed
• The base is established by adding a layer of recycled asphalt and concrete to the determined amount
• The thickness will vary depending on the soil conditions
• The base material is rolled with a vibrating roller to compact
• The hot asphalt is applied with a paving machine
• The machine lays a mat of uniform consistency
• While the mat is still hot, it is rolled to a maximum density
  • Even at maximum density, it is important to note that aggregate or stones will be able to be seen near the surface

In areas where the material is installed by hand, the aggregate can be seen more prominently which is normal. The coarser the aggregate mix, the stronger the mat is, therefore the longer it will stand up and require less maintenance.

Low Points

A slight low point or depression can be caused by the base, even the most solid base, settling or from the action of the roller. These areas may hold a small amount of water after rain but in most cases, the water will evaporate.

Rough Areas

Asphalt is made from a mixture of sand, gravel, and oil. Where there is a predominance of larger gravel in the mix, the finish mat will look rougher. The tie in areas between loads and areas between two mats often look rougher as well. These areas will fill in with dust or a seal coat which will give the area a more uniform look.

Roller Marks

When asphalt is rolled during the glare of the sun it looks smooth yet may show roller marks after the sun starts to set. Eventually, aging of the asphalt will make the marks inconspicuous.

Edges

An asphalt mat is raked to a line and some distortion may develop when the edges are tamped, and further distortion may develop from the weight of the roller. We strive to keep our edges as straight as possible.

Thickness

We make every effort to give the average thickness for which they purchased. In order to have the best drainage, some areas may be thicker than average while some are slightly less.

Vegetation

Weed killer is used for eliminating the growth of vegetation through the asphalt mat. In the event that all the seeds are not killed and weeds or grass grow through, spray weed killer where the growth is and tamp the area down.

Weather Cracking

Frost penetrates the ground as deep as four to six feet which can cause the ground to heave as much as 1 to 2 inches. Although asphalt does give and move slightly, excessive heaving can cause cracking and separation. These cracks are generally straight and extend from one side of the asphalt surface to another. Regardless of how thick and strong the asphalt mat is, the earth freezing is stronger, for example, many highways have expansion cracks in them. Some cracks will contract when the frost comes out, while others may not. In the event the cracks remain open, we recommend filling the cracks to avoid water penetration.

Asphalt Enemies

• Gas, oil, antifreeze, and all petroleum products will harm asphalt when excess amounts are spilled on the surface
• Ladders, grills, kickstands, and other sharp objects will indent asphalt
• Radial tires, particularly front wheel drive vehicles, may leave scuff tire marks on new asphalt because of heat generated by the flexing of steel and rubber
• Salt will not harm asphalt in any way