My driveway needs some work. Should I have it sealcoated or resurfaced/overlayed?

This all depends on the condition of your current surface.

If your current surface is still in good condition structurally, a sealcoat can help protect it and extend the life of your asphalt. Sealcoating a driveway can be compared to repainting your house. Fresh paint on the house will help protect the wood but will not repair existing issues. Sealcoating is substantially less expensive than resurfacing your driveway. 

If your current surface has structural issues, then you may need to consider resurfacing/overlaying. This process involves patching any areas that need repaired and then putting down 1 1/2" to 3" of new asphalt over the top of your existing surface. 

If you are unsure what the best option for your surface is, give us a call and we will be happy to go over your choices with you.

I accidentally left scuffmarks with my tire, what can I do?

Sharp turns and turning your wheel while the vehicle is not moving can cause this, especially if the surface is not fully cured or during hot days when the asphalt can soften some. This is normal and over time, most of these marks will disappear. 

Why do I see variations in the asphalt texture in different areas?

This is caused by the material composition that makes up asphalt. Asphalt is roughly 95% aggregates and 5% black asphalt cement. While we use state approved mixes, the characteristics and look of the different mixes will vary. This causes variation in the texture of the asphalt surface between batches. 

The roller left lines on my surface. Will these go away?

Compacting of the asphalt is a key point of creating a long lasting surface. We use a roller to compact the material to about 90%. It is normal for the roller to occasionally leave lines during this process. These lines are temporary and over the next several months, they will slowly fade away with regular use of the surface.

How can my new drive have grass spots growing in it?

Asphalt is compacted to about 90% during installation. This means that there is approximately 10% on compressed that will have air pockets in it. It is possible for grass/plant seed to enter this void during mixing/laying and with the right conditions, grass may grow from these air pockets. We recommend spraying a good weed/grass killer on these spots to kill the grass.

I'm wanting have a new driveway made, or upgrade my existing one. What are the advantages of asphalt versus concrete?

A lot of this comes down to personal preference.
*Asphalt has the ability to flex some to allow it to adjust to use and move with changes in the stability of the base whereas concrete depends on it's own strength to surface loads as well as bridge weak points in the base surface.
*Asphalt is significantly cheaper than concrete of comparable strength. 

I currently have a concrete driveway. Can I have asphalt laid over it?

As long as the concrete surface is not too damaged, yes. It is important to note however that the expansion joints in the concrete can move which may reflect up to the asphalt surface causing cracks. 

How long can I expect my asphalt to last?

With proper maintenance, asphalt can last 15-20 years. There are many factors that can affect the lifespan and we would be happy to assist you with proper care of your surface to ensure the longest life possible.

How often does my asphalt need sealcoated?

Conditions specific to your surface will affect how often it should be seal coated. Useage, direct sunlight, spilled chemicals (gas, oil, etc...) will all lessen the lifespan of the surface. In general, it should not need coated sooner than 3-4 years. Too many layers of sealcoat can cause the surface to become smooth making it slick during wet conditions. 

I just had my driveway or parking lot paved, how long do I need stay off of it?

As a general rule, new asphalt surfaces are blocked for 2-3 days. If absolutely needed, new surfaces can be driven on after the roller has completed compacting the material but it should NOT be parked on. Also, care should be taken on new surfaces to avoid actions such as sharp wheel turns or turning your tires while not moving for at least a week, especially during higher temperatures where the ashpalt may take longer to cure.

What is recycled asplaht?

Asphalt is actually the most recycled material in the WORLD! All new asphalt has approximately 17% recycled asphalt mixed in. 100% non recycled asphalt is available but industry experts recommend against its use unless it's being used for the bottom of multiple lifts.

Recycled asphalt is a great way to make your material costs less expensive, but the quality of the recylced materials and the percentage used must be properly controlled as recyvled asphalt can have rubber, oil, marking paint, and other materials from previous use mixed in that can be tracked into vehicles and homes.