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The Benefits of Asphalt Paving 

Before we jump into the reasons you should have an asphalt maintenance program, let’s take a quick look at what can happen if you don’t. Weather alone slowly damages asphalt over the course of just a few years. Heat breaks down the glue holding the aggregate together. As it starts to loosen, the paved surface will deteriorate. Winter thaw—which we’re all pretty familiar with here in West Michigan—also causes damage to asphalt over time. In fact, the freeze-thaw process is brutally damaging to asphalt surfaces. If your parking lot is used frequently, the weight of the vehicles can eventually take a toll on the surface as well. Regular maintenance is required for all of those reasons, but small cracks are sometimes overlooked. If you fail to have a few small cracks filled, you could end up having to deal with large potholes within a few months.

 

Safety: One of the most important benefits of asphalt is how safe it is. As previously mentioned, it is one of the smoothest options available which will reduce potholes and other road damage that could cause vehicle damage or accidents. Since asphalt is typically black in color, it provides a high contrast between the asphalt itself and road markers, which are typically white or yellow. This allows a stronger visiblity for drivers in inclement weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow. The black color also absorbs the sun’s rays causing the heat to retain on the surface, thus melting snow and ice much quicker than other surfaces, such as concrete. This results in safer driving conditions during the icy winter months. The Wisconsin Asphalt Pavement Association notes that asphalt can minimize splashes and sprays that can occur during any level of rain. Between improved visibility and better conditions during any type of weather, asphalt is the safest paving material on the market.

 

Ease of Construction: Asphalt is by far the quickest paving method to construct. Unlike concrete, asphalt does not take time to cure, so your parking lot can reopen immediately after construction is completed. While it is always best to plan your paving projects during off-peak times – nights, weekends, or offseasons – asphalt paving decreases closures and delays, thus saving money in the long run and keeping drivers happy. This also means that when it comes time for paving maintenance, repairs will not impede on your business and will cause minimal inconvenience compared to concrete.

 

Smoothness: The smoothness that asphalt provides is another incredible benefit. According to the Asphalt Pavement Alliance, “The smoother the pavement, the lower a vehicle’s fuel consumption.” It also allows for safer rides since drivers won’t have to worry about hitting deep potholes or cracks that could not only damage their vehicles but could also further damage the roads. The Asphalt Pavement Alliance notes, “…Improving pavement smoothness by 25% results in almost a 10% increase in pavement longevity.”

 

Everlasting Pavement: One reason that folks love asphalt is its longevity. When asphalt is properly laid, it won’t need to be replaced for fifteen to twenty years. That lifespan can be increased to twenty-five years as long as the recommended maintenance is performed on a regular basis. If you have an asphalt driveway, we have an excellent care guide to help you maximize the lifespan of your driveway. Asphalt is so long-lasting because it’s laid on a strong foundation and the aggregate, binder, and filler allow it to be quite flexible. This flexibility means that it can withstand the freeze-thaw cycles that take place from fall to spring.

 

Durability: Asphalt is one of the most durable and long-lasting pavement options available today. When asphalt construction is properly designed, constructed, and maintained, the surface can remain strong and functioning for up to 20 years or more. Without the need for constant repairs and updates, your business will save thousands of dollars every year. However, if repairs are necessary, L. Keeley has a state-of-the-art Paving Maintenance Program to help alleviate the stress of repaving.

 

Asher's Asphalt and Sealcoating Company

Olympia