Blog - Certified Asphalt LLC

August 23, 2022 Asphalt Maintenance, Asphalt Repair, Recycled Asphalt 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Driveway Maintenance Tips – How to Keep Your Asphalt Looking Great

Your driveway is an entrance to your home and can have a significant impact on its curb appeal. Even if the rest of your home’s exterior is pristine, a poorly maintained driveway will detract from its appearance. Wouldn’t it be great if your asphalt driveway looked as good as it did when it was new? While it may be tough to keep it looking brand new, there are driveway maintenance tips to help preserve and protect your driveway’s appearance and extend its life span.

Driveway Inspections

Of all the driveway maintenance tips we’re going to share, this should be number one on the list. Inspecting your driveway regularly will allow you to identify any minor damage before it becomes a major concern. Winter can be especially hard on your driveway, making early spring a great time to inspect it. While you can have an asphalt contractor conduct an inspection, you can often identify issues yourself and consult with them on how to resolve them.

Crack and Pothole Repair

It is not uncommon for homeowners to see a couple of small cracks in their asphalt driveway and think they are nothing to worry about. However, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Driveways can develop cracks over time due to weather or wear and tear. Water will infiltrate cracks in the asphalt and cause damage from underneath, especially if the water freezes and expands. That will make the cracks larger and more difficult to repair. If the cracks are left unattended, they will soon become potholes. These will not only make your driveway look bad but also create the potential for trip and fall injuries.

Keep It Clean

When it comes to driveway maintenance tips, this one is simple. Keep the asphalt clear of debris. Leaves, sticks, and other yard waste can accumulate on your driveway. Constantly driving over them can force them into your asphalt and cause cracking or potholes.

Snow and Ice can also damage your driveway. While it is important to remove them from the driveway, make sure that the shovel or plow blade is kept at an angle that prevents it from gouging the asphalt.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Whether you’re pressure washing your driveway or spreading ice melt, be sure to use asphalt-safe products. Otherwise, you could end up doing more harm than good. Also, clean up any gas or oil spills immediately as they will stain and even weaken your asphalt.

Don’t Forget the Edges

The edges of the driveway are often overlooked. However, they are the weakest part of your driveway and more susceptible to damage. Avoid driving over the edges and keep an eye out for cracks in that area. The surrounding grass and weeds will force their way into the cracks, making them larger. To prevent this, use spot weed killer and fill the cracks.

Sealcoat Asphalt Regularly

When talking about driveway maintenance tips, sealcoating has to be part of the conversation. Sealcoating prevents water and other elements from seeping into and damaging your asphalt. It also protects against sun damage, which can cause your asphalt to become brittle and crack. When filling cracks and potholes, follow up the cracks and pothole repairs with sealcoating to strengthen and protect them. A well-sealed driveway will also last longer than an unsealed driveway.

One of the Best Driveway Maintenance Tips -Call the Pros

Certified Asphalt provides full-service commercial and residential asphalt services to Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas. We specialize in asphalt paving, milling, repair, sealcoating, and pavement maintenance. Family-owned and operated for three generations, we have the skills and experience to deliver quality services at affordable rates. Fully licensed and insured, we guarantee your complete satisfaction! Contact us today for a free estimate!

July 26, 2022 Asphalt Driveway Installation, Asphalt Paving Services, Residential Asphalt Paving 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Don’t Just Google Residential Asphalt Paving Near Me – Know What to Ask

It’s probably one of the first things a homeowner does when they need to have their asphalt driveway repaired or replaced. Googling residential asphalt paving near me is a great place to start, but don’t just pick one of the top three choices to install your driveway. Although Google does try to provide us with the best search result at the top of page one, it’s not a guarantee that one of those three will be the best choice.

In addition to searching for residential asphalt paving near me, you need to know what to ask when you call the asphalt contractors. The answers you get will help you make an informed decision when choosing an asphalt contractor.

How Much Asphalt Paving Experience Do They Have?

This is probably the most important question to ask when hiring an asphalt paving contractor. You want to be certain they have enough experience to do the job right. There are contractors who may include asphalt paving as one of their services, but it is not the only thing they do.

When Googling residential asphalt paving near me, narrow down the choices to contractors who only do asphalt, or at least specialize in it. The last thing you want is to have your driveway improperly installed by someone who is inexperienced.

Are They Licensed and Insured?

When you make your list of asphalt contractors from your search for residential asphalt paving near me, find out if they are licensed and insured. This protects you in case something goes wrong during the installation or repair of your driveway. Immediately eliminate those who are not as any reputable contractor will be licensed and insured. You want to make sure it includes liability insurance in case there is any damage to your property during the job.

What Will Your Project Include?

When you get estimates from the contractors, find out exactly what the price includes. This will help you compare apples to apples when making your decision. Some contractors may try to low-ball the estimate by leaving out certain aspects of the job. When you know what the project includes, you can be sure you are comparing estimates accurately.

How Long Will It Take?

This is an important question because you need to know how long your driveway will be unusable. Find out when the work will begin and how long it will take to complete it. You don’t want to be without a driveway for weeks or longer, so this is an important question.

What about Clean-Up?

You also want to know if the estimate includes clean-up. After the job is completed, you don’t want asphalt and debris all over your property. Most reputable contractors include clean-up in their estimate, but it’s always best to ask to be sure.

Is the Work Guaranteed?

You may think that if you hire an experienced and reputable asphalt paving contractor, you will receive a quality finished project with no guarantee necessary. However, even with the best contractor, something could possibly go wrong. You want to make sure the contractor you hire stands behind their work. If they don’t, move on to the next choice. A reputable asphalt contractor will have no problem offering a guarantee because they know their work is top-notch.

Searching for Residential Asphalt Paving Near Me?

If you need residential asphalt paving in Ocean County, Monmouth County, or the surrounding areas, give Certified Asphalt a call. We offer complete asphalt installation and maintenance services. We will be happy to come out, assess your situation, and provide you with an accurate estimate. Contact us today!

June 28, 2022 Asphalt, Asphalt Driveway Installation, Asphalt Paving Services 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Is it Time for a New Asphalt Driveway? 5 Telltale Signs

If you have an asphalt driveway, you know that replacing it is a substantial investment. A well-maintained asphalt driveway can last 20 years, but even with the best care, it will eventually need to be replaced. So, how do you know it’s time for a new asphalt driveway? The best way is to have it evaluated by a professional asphalt contractor. They will be able to determine if your driveway needs to be repaired or replaced.

However, there are signs you should be aware of as they are often an indication that it is time for a new driveway.

Rough Surface

Do you remember how smooth your driveway was when it was new? A rough asphalt surface is a sign it may be time for a new driveway. This is sometimes referred to as alligatoring as the asphalt resembles the rough surface of the reptile’s skin. Alligatoring is typically the result of wear and tear, but it can also be caused by extreme weather conditions.

Cracks and Potholes

Cracks and potholes are often a sign that it’s time to consider installing a new driveway. Minor cracks may be able to be repaired and sealed, but larger cracks will allow water to seek below the asphalt and cause it to expand and form potholes. Potholes can also result from vehicles driving over cracks. Regardless of the cause, cracked potholes are unsightly and can result in personal injury or vehicle damage.

Depressions

While you may not have cracks or potholes, depressions in your asphalt drive can also be a cause for concern. In some cases, depressions can form as a result of improper installation. If the proper base material was not put down before installing the asphalt, depressions will appear as the result of an unstable foundation. Depressions can also be caused by repeatedly driving or parking over the same area. Minor depressions can be patched. However, for depressions resulting from a poor or deteriorating sub-grade, this will only be a temporary fix. The depressed area will need to be cut out, the sub-grade replaced, and asphalt applied over top of it.

Raveling

Raveling is another sign it may be time to have your asphalt driveway replaced. This is when the gravel on top of the asphalt starts to come loose. It can be caused by poor installation, wear and tear, or weather conditions. Raveling can also be caused by vehicles driving over the same spot repeatedly, causing the asphalt to break down.

Fading or Discoloration

Another sign that it may be time for a new driveway is if your current driveway is starting to fade or discolor. This can be the result of several factors, including exposure to the sun or chemicals. If you notice that your driveway is no longer the rich black color it once was, sealcoating may restore your driveway’s surface, or it may be time for a replacement.

Is It Time for a New Asphalt Driveway?

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to start thinking about getting a new driveway. Driveways are a big investment, but they are worth it in the long run. A new driveway will add value to your home and increase its curb appeal.

To determine the best solution for your driveway, consult with the asphalt professionals at Certified Asphalt. Whether your asphalt pavement needs minor repairs, seal coating, or you need new driveway installation, we can handle it.

Certified Asphalt provides full-service residential and commercial asphalt paving services to Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas in New Jersey. We specialize in asphalt paving, milling, asphalt repair, seal coating, and pavement maintenance. Family-owned and operated for three generations, we have the skills and experience to deliver quality services at affordable rates. Fully licensed and insured, we guarantee your complete satisfaction! Contact us today for a free estimate!

May 24, 2022 Commercial Asphalt Paving 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Commercial Paving Services – Why Now is the Perfect Time

Did winter take a toll on your asphalt parking lot and walkways? Snow, rain, freezing temperatures, plowing, and shoveling can leave your asphalt surfaces in need of maintenance. Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to schedule commercial paving services. Hiring an asphalt paving company is the best way to ensure your asphalt surfaces are safe and make a good first impression.

Start with a Thorough Inspection

You can inspect your asphalt surfaces yourself, but a commercial paving services company will know what to look for. While you may be able to spot obvious issues such as potholes or broken pavement, you may overlook tiny cracks and crevices. These could quickly go from a minor issue to a major repair.

Cracks in asphalt pavement will allow water to seep in and collect beneath the asphalt, impacting its integrity. If left unattended, the water will freeze and make the cracks larger when the temperature drops again. This will, increase the damage and the cost to repair it. A professional inspection and assessment of your asphalt surfaces is the best way to identify any issues that need to be addressed.

Make the Necessary Repairs

As we’ve already mentioned, making repairs now can save you money in the long run. However, that is not the only benefit. Addressing minor repairs can extend the life of your asphalt surfaces. Professional maintenance conducted by an experienced commercial paving services company can prevent you from the expense of asphalt replacement. Well-maintained asphalt can last between twenty and thirty years.

Sealcoating and Striping

Repairing cracks and potholes are only part of the asphalt maintenance a commercial paving services company can provide. Sealcoating will camouflage and protect any repairs made, giving your asphalt surfaces a smooth, continuous appearance. Sealcoating will also restore that rich black color to make your asphalt surfaces look brand new.

Commercial parking lots are striped to designated standard parking spots and those reserved for handicapped parking. Faded striping or worn-away handicapped designations will make your asphalt parking unmaintained and have a significant impact on your curb appeal. It could also cause you to fall out of ADA compliance. Parking lot striping can also include labeling loading zones, fire lanes, speed bumps, and areas where parking is prohibited.

Avoid Liability Issues

Uneven pavement caused by cracks and potholes can result in damage to vehicles or trip and fall hazards. Utilizing commercial paving services to maintain your asphalt surfaces will help to prevent accidents and injuries from taking place on your property. Neglecting asphalt maintenance will give the impression that you don’t take pride in your business or value the safety of those who patronize it. The expense of accidents or injuries could far exceed the cost of asphalt maintenance.

Professional Commercial Paving Services

Whether you are a business owner or a property manager, you are always looking for the most efficient and cost-effective property maintenance solutions. Professional commercial paving services will ensure that your asphalt surfaces are safe, attractive, and easy to navigate.

It doesn’t matter if your asphalt pavement needs minor repairs, seal coating, or needs to be completely replaced, Certified Asphalt can handle it. We provide full-service residential and commercial asphalt paving services to Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas in New Jersey.

We specialize in asphalt paving, milling, asphalt repair, seal coating, and pavement maintenance. Family-owned and operated for three generations, we have the skills and experience to deliver quality commercial paving services at affordable rates. Fully licensed and insured, we guarantee your complete satisfaction! Contact us today for a free estimate!

April 26, 2022 Asphalt Driveway Installation, Asphalt Paving Services 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Asphalt Driveway Preparation – It’s All About the Base

Anything built from the ground up needs to have a solid foundation. That includes a new asphalt driveway. Making sure you have the proper base is a key factor in asphalt driveway preparation. The quality of the base will impact the quality of the finished product and its longevity. Although you won’t be installing your driveway, you should have a general understanding of the process. It will help you ask the right questions and hire an asphalt contractor who will complete the project properly.

Old Driveway Removal

If you are replacing an existing driveway, all the old pavement will first be removed. Heavy equipment such as bobcats, front-end loaders, and dump trucks are used to do this. The old asphalt is hauled away to be recycled and used again.

Grading and Slope

The ground where the new driveway will be installed must be graded to provide a level surface. At this point in the process, the slope of the driveway is also established. The slope allows water runoff and drainage to keep water from pooling on the driveway. This is an important part of asphalt driveway preparation as water is one of the primary causes of asphalt damage.

If your new driveway has an incline, that will allow water to run down and away from the driveway. However, if your driveway is completely level, the ground will be built up slightly to allow water to run off the side of the driveway and drain.

The Sub-Base

Once the slope is established, you have the sub-base or sub-grade. The sub-base is then compacted. Rollers and vibrator plate compactors are used to complete this step in asphalt driveway preparation. If done incorrectly, the sub-base will settle and create voids beneath the asphalt. The weight of vehicles on the driveway will cause the asphalt above the voids to crack and cave in, thus creating potholes.

The Base

With some driveways, a properly graded, sloped, and compacted sub-base is a sufficient foundation. Others will need an additional layer added during asphalt driveway preparation. This layer is known as the base. Whether or not the base layer is needed depends on the type of soil the sub-base is. If it is still soft after compacting, it may be necessary to add a base layer on top of the sub-base. This will provide strong and stable support for the asphalt.

An experienced asphalt contractor can often tell if a base is necessary before the asphalt driveway preparation begins based on the soil common in your area. However, to be certain, contractors often do what is known as a “proof roll”. A dump truck is driven over every area of the sub-base. If the subgrade flexes more than an inch, those areas must be repaired. The soft soil is removed and replaced with a strong aggregate material. This repair process is known as undercutting.

Once the repairs are made, a base layer of crushed gravel, limestone, or Con-bit (a mixture of crushed concrete and asphalt) is put down. The type of base material used will again be determined by your contractor based on your region. Before the asphalt is installed, a binder layer of large aggregate and oil is put down to strengthen and support the asphalt.

Installing the Asphalt

Now that the asphalt driveway preparation is complete, it’s time to install your driveway. A top layer of fresh asphalt made up of small aggregate, sand, and oil is put down over the base. The asphalt is smoothed and compacted using a roller truck. The result is a new driveway that is both durable and attractive.

Professional Asphalt Driveway Preparation and Installation

Are you considering a new asphalt driveway in Ocean County, Monmouth County, or the surrounding areas? Give Certified Asphalt a call. We offer complete asphalt installation and maintenance services. We will be happy to come out and assess your situation and provide you with an accurate estimate. Contact us today!

February 22, 2022 Asphalt, Asphalt Maintenance, Asphalt Repair 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Winter Asphalt Repairs – Don’t Leave Cracks and Potholes Until Spring

Admittedly, winter is not the best time for making asphalt repairs. The colder temperatures make it all but impossible for asphalt to set properly. The ideal temperature for installing or repairing asphalt is 70 degrees Fahrenheit or above. Unfortunately, winter seems to be when many cracks and potholes appear. Leaving them to go until spring can lead to more extensive damage and more expensive repairs. So what can you do when you discover cracks and potholes in your asphalt in the middle of winter? Although it isn’t the best time to make asphalt repairs, there is a way to prevent them from getting worse.

Cold Mix Asphalt

When you think about asphalt, what comes to mind? Is it that hopper of hot black, pungent mixture you’ve seen when new asphalt is installed? Probably, but there are different types of asphalt. The two main types are hot mix and cold mix asphalt.

Hot mix asphalt is used for new paving when the weather is warmer. During cold weather, not only will hot mix asphalt not set properly, but it will cool before it can be installed. When the hot mix asphalt cools before it is put down, it becomes impossible to work with. This is why asphalt installation is always done during warmer weather.

Cold mix asphalt is used for asphalt repairs when the temperatures drop. The mixture includes oils that keep the asphalt soft and repel moisture. Cold mix asphalt never completely hardens, making it perfect for cold weather asphalt repairs. While it isn’t a permanent fix, cold mix asphalt will fill in cracks and potholes to keep water from getting into the pavement and causing further damage. Then when spring rolls around, you can have an asphalt professional make permanent asphalt repair.

Applying Cold Mix Asphalt

A cold mix asphalt patch can be a DIY project. However, if it is not done properly, it won’t be effective. It’s always best to hire an asphalt professional to make winter asphalt repairs.

First, any ice or debris that has collected in a crack or pothole must be removed completely. If even a small chunk of ice is left behind, an air pocket will form when it melts, causing the patch to collapse. Before applying the cold mix patch, the edges should be chiseled straight up and down. With a pothole, chiseling it into a square can result in better patching results.

If the pothole is more than 2 inches deep, coarse gravel should be added and compacted. Having a proper base is just as important in asphalt repair as it is when installing new asphalt. Once the pothole is properly prepared, it’s time to lay down the cold mix asphalt and compact it thoroughly.

Cracks can be filled in with liquid asphalt, also known as crack fill. A mixture of asphalt and rubber, crack fill prevents cracks from becoming potholes.

Preventative Maintenance

Cold mix asphalt can take care of winter asphalt repairs, but you may be wondering if anything could be done to prevent potholes from happening in the first place.

The answer is “yes”.

Before the temperatures begin to drop and winter arrives, inspect your asphalt pavement for cracks and potholes. Even a small crack will allow enough water to get in and create a bigger problem. If there are any issues, you should have them taken care of before winter arrives.

After any permanent asphalt repairs, the asphalt should be seal coated. This will not only provide another layer of protection but will also give your asphalt pavement a smooth, even surface. Regular sealcoating can extend the lifespan of your asphalt and keep it looking brand new.

Professional Asphalt Repairs and Maintenance

Need asphalt repairs? Certified Asphalt provides full-service commercial and residential asphalt paving services to Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas. We offer residential and commercial asphalt paving, asphalt repair, sealcoating, and pavement maintenance. Family-owned and operated for three generations, we have the skills and experience to deliver quality services at affordable rates. We are fully licensed and insured and guarantee your complete satisfaction! Contact us today for a free estimate!

December 28, 2021 Asphalt Paving Services, Commercial Asphalt Paving, Commercial Parking Lot 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Commercial Asphalt Paving – Why it’s the Popular Choice

Planning to install a paved surface on a commercial property? There are a lot of factors to consider when making such a sizable investment. One of the first decisions to make is which material to use. Asphalt is a popular choice among business owners and property managers. There are many reasons for its popularity, and understanding what they are can help you decide if commercial asphalt paving is the best choice for your facility.

Flexibility

Temperature changes can cause the ground to expand and contract. When the ground beneath a paved surface does this it can cause that surface to crack. This is true of asphalt and concrete surfaces.

You’re probably thinking: “ If either material can crack with temperature changes, does it really matter which one is used?” The answer is “yes”. Although both materials can crack, asphalt is more flexible than concrete. It will give to some degree, causing it to crack less easily than concrete. This also means, unlike concrete, there is no need for expansion joints when installing commercial asphalt paving.

Easier to Repair

As we already established, both asphalt and concrete can crack. However, asphalt is easier to repair than concrete. When you repair a crack in concrete, the repaired area will be weak and continue to crack. This is because most concrete doesn’t contain a bonding agent. Unless one is added to the new concrete, it will not bond to the old concrete.

Cracked asphalt is easier to repair. Numerous products can quickly and effectively fill in cracks in commercial asphalt paving. Most of them contain many of the same ingredients found in asphalt and bond well to the old asphalt.

Aesthetics

Curb appeal is important, regardless of whether you’re talking about commercial or residential property. While either material will initially upgrade the appearance of your facility, when it comes to repairs, asphalt paving will make it possible to maintain those aesthetics.

Gas and oil stains are common on commercial parking lots. They will be more obvious on the light-colored surface of concrete paving. On asphalt surfaces, stains can camouflage well.

Another thing to consider is the appearance of paving repairs. Unless a new layer of concrete is laid over the top of the old one, repairs are difficult (if not impossible) to conceal. Small asphalt repairs are often barely obvious. However, after asphalt repairs are made, sealcoating is typically done. Not only will this protect and strengthen the repairs, but it also gives the asphalt a smooth, continuous surface, making it look brand new.

Affordability

Whether we’re talking about the new installation or the repair of commercial paving, asphalt is the more affordable choice. While it can vary depending on the scope and specifics of the project, commercial asphalt paving is typically 35 to 45 percent less expensive than concrete.

For new installation, this is due in part to the labor involved. Concrete is more labor-intensive. It often costs more in time and materials to make concrete repairs appear seamless whereas crack repair and sealcoating are more affordable and provide better aesthetics.

Commercial Asphalt Paving in Ocean and Monmouth County, NJ

Certified Asphalt provides full-service commercial and residential asphalt services in Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas. We specialize in commercial asphalt paving, maintenance, repair, and seal coating. We can maintain the integrity and appearance of all your asphalt surfaces including parking lots, driveways, and walkways. Family-owned and operated for three generations, we have the skills and experience to deliver quality services at affordable rates. Fully licensed and insured, we guarantee your complete satisfaction! Contact us today for a free estimate!

November 23, 2021 Asphalt, Asphalt Driveway Installation, Asphalt Paving Services 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Consider the Benefits of Asphalt for Your Next Paving Project

When taking on a residential paving project, One of the first things to consider is what material to use. Asphalt is a popular choice among homeowners when installing driveways and walkways on their property, and with good reason. The benefits of asphalt make it a great choice for residential paving. Taking time to understand those benefits can make your choice of materials easy when it’s time for your next paving project.

Quick Installation

Any construction or renovation on your property can significantly disrupt your daily routine. One of the benefits of asphalt paving is a quick installation. Your average driveway typically only takes one to two days to complete. The time involved will vary depending on the size of the area being paved. However, asphalt paving usually takes half the time of installing concrete or paver driveways.

The quicker your asphalt pavement is installed, the sooner you can use it and have your daily routine return to normal.

Excellent Durability

Having a new driveway or another paved surface installed can be a big investment. For this reason, the durability of the material used is an important factor. Another one of the benefits of asphalt is its flexibility, which allows it to better withstand the elements. Especially in the winter, asphalt can expand and contract with the changing temperatures, making it less susceptible to cracking or flaking.

Because it is dark in color, asphalt can better absorb the sun’s heat than other paving materials, allowing snow and ice to melt away faster.

Recyclable

In today’s eco-conscious environment, many homeowners make some of their home improvement decisions based on recyclability. One of the many benefits of asphalt pavement is that it can be recycled. Recycled asphalt, also referred to as RAP, is used in residential and commercial paving. However, it is most commonly used in commercial applications, including parking lots and road construction.

Choosing asphalt for your paving project is an eco-friendly choice. Knowing that someday when your paving needs replacing, it can be recycled and used again will provide you with peace of mind that you made a sustainable choice.

Cost-Effective

One of the greatest benefits of asphalt is that it is more affordable than other paving options. It is important to mention that although it is more cost-effective, you won’t be sacrificing quality for savings. Asphalt paving is more affordable because the materials are less expensive, and the installation time is shorter. The result is lower labor costs.

Increase Property Value

This is one of the benefits of asphalt that is often overlooked. If you are thinking about selling your home and your current pavement is in disrepair, replacing it with smooth, durable asphalt can elevate your curb appeal. That combined with its durability can be an appealing feature for potential buyers.

Are You Sold On the Benefits of Asphalt?

If so, then all you need to do is hire the right asphalt contractor.

Certified Asphalt provides full-service residential and commercial and asphalt paving services to Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas. We specialize in asphalt paving, milling, asphalt repair, seal coating, and pavement maintenance. Whether you need a new driveway, parking lot, or any other asphalt paved surface, Certified Asphalt can handle it.

Family-owned and operated for three generations, we have the skills and experience to deliver quality services at affordable rates. Take a look at some of our projects to see the quality workmanship we provide each and every customer. We are fully licensed and insured and guarantee your complete satisfaction! Contact us today for a free estimate!

October 27, 2021 Commercial Asphalt Paving, Commercial Parking Lot, Recycled Asphalt 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Recycled Asphalt – 5 Reasons it Can Be a Great Paving Option

Many business owners are joining the ranks of the eco-friendly. From separating their recyclables and eliminating the use of plastic bags to driving electric cars, the eco-friendly movement is constantly gaining momentum. However, recycling probably wouldn’t even enter your mind when considering a new asphalt parking lot. You’re focused on the expense and durability of a newly paved surface. You might be surprised to find out that recycled asphalt, also known as reclaimed or RAP, can impact those concerns as well as the environment.

What is Recycled Asphalt?

So, almost everyone has encountered road construction in their travels. Besides being annoyed by the inconvenience, have you ever wondered what happens to all the torn-up asphalt? Maybe not, but much of that asphalt is recycled and used in new asphalt applications. It is used to repave those roads and maybe even your new parking lot.

To be recycled, the asphalt is ground down into small gravel size pieces. This allows it to harden and bind together, creating asphalt millings. The millings can be used as a base material for new asphalt applications or added to hot mix asphalt. It is a good idea to discuss using recycled material with your asphalt professional before the installation begins. Here are some of the reasons using asphalt that has been recycled is a good option.

Eco Friendly

Although we have already established that reclaimed asphalt helps protect our environment, it isn’t simply because it’s reused. Asphalt is a non-biodegradable material. Therefore if it goes into one of our already overflowing landfills, it will be there forever, right next to the plastic water bottles.

Recycling asphalt, especially to repave roads and other commercial applications, can significantly reduce the amount of asphalt that gets sent to the landfill. Using recycled asphalt as a base material also helps preserve the limited resource of other base materials like sand, stone, and gravel.

Less Expensive

Recycled asphalt is a more cost-effective option than new asphalt, especially when used on the site where it was taken from. Think about it: if your existing parking lot is being replaced, that asphalt can be recycled into millings and used to install your new parking lot. This not only reduces the amount of new asphalt that needs to be purchased but reduces the expense of transporting that asphalt as well.

Superior Bonding

As a base material, recycled asphalt can often be a better option than loose-fill material such as gravel. Because reclaimed asphalt contains tar, the millings create a stronger bond than other base materials. When properly compressed, the strong, durable surface is similar to new surfaces installed using hot liquid asphalt.

Durable

It is a common misconception that asphalt that has been recycled will be more susceptible to the elements. When properly applied, it stands up well against water damage from rain, snow, and ice. On paved surfaces constructed using millings, snow often melts faster, leaving less time for ice to form.

Minimal Maintenance

With asphalt millings, you won’t have to worry about weeds working their way up to the surface. Once the recycled asphalt is compressed and hardens, it becomes virtually impenetrable. There will be no unsightly vegetation spoiling the appearance of your parking lot.

Is Recycled Asphalt Right for Your Parking Lot?

There’s only one way to find out. Talk to the experts. Certified Asphalt provides full-service commercial and residential asphalt paving services to Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas. We specialize in asphalt milling services for commercial projects and also offer asphalt paving, asphalt repair, seal coating, and pavement maintenance. Family-owned and operated for three generations, we have the skills and experience to deliver quality services at affordable rates. We are fully licensed and insured, and guarantee your complete satisfaction! Contact us today for a free estimate!

September 28, 2021 Asphalt, Asphalt Driveway Installation, Asphalt Paving Services 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Asphalt Driveway Installation – Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers

When you’re considering asphalt driveway installation, you are bound to have a few questions. While most of them are things you should discuss with your asphalt professional, we are going to give you some insight by answering some of the most commonly asked questions about asphalt driveway installation. Let’s start with what is probably the first question on your mind:

How Much Does Asphalt Driveway Installation Cost?

This is a valid question, however, there is no simple answer as there are a variety of factors that go into calculating the cost of asphalt driveway installation. From driveway preparation and the type of asphalt used to labor and location, each aspect of the installation process has an impact on the cost. Your asphalt professional will go over each step and provide you with an accurate estimate to install your new driveway.

Is a Base Required for Installation?

An asphalt driveway must be installed on a stable base. If not, it could affect the asphalt’s longevity as an unstable base will lead to cracks in your asphalt. Reputable asphalt contractors will assess your specific situation and determine if putting down a base is necessary for your asphalt driveway installation. If it is necessary, putting down a base will increase both labor and material costs and should be reflected in the estimate provided.

What is Driveway Grading?

When choosing an asphalt driveway installation company, the subject of driveway grading will come up (or at least it should). Grading is actually part of the preparation process. In addition to making sure there is a solid base, the ground must be dug out or filled and then leveled, creating the appropriate pitch to ensure proper drainage and water runoff. You want water to run away from your home to prevent water damage or flooding. Grading also prevents standing water on the asphalt that could lead to premature damage to your driveway.

How Thick Should an Asphalt Driveway Be?

Again, this may vary depending on the specifics of your asphalt driveway installation. On average, two to three inches of asphalt is put down over the base when installing a residential driveway. For commercial driveways and parking lots, the asphalt is typically three inches thick. For asphalt subject to heavy-duty vehicles such as those leading up to loading docks or in truck stop parking lots, the asphalt should be anywhere from four to seven inches thick.

Can an Overlay Be Installed on My Existing Driveway?

That depends on several different factors, including the extent of the damage to your existing driveway. If the damage is too extensive, the base is compromised, or the driveway needs to be regraded, a new asphalt driveway will be required. If your driveway only has minor damage, an overlay can be a viable solution. However, if major damage exists, an overlay is like putting a band-aid on a wound that needs stitches. Your asphalt contractor will be able to assess the condition of your existing driveway and determine if an overlay would be appropriate.

How Should I Care For My Asphalt Driveway?

A little care and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of a new driveway installation. You should inspect your asphalt surfaces regularly, keep them clean of debris, and repair any small cracks and crevices before they become a major issue. You should also take extra care when shoveling snow that you don”t gouge the surface. Also, keep in mind that the summer heat has an impact on your asphalt driveway. It helps to switch up your parking spot to help prevent tire marks from forming. Sealcoating your driveway every few years can also help improve its longevity.

The Asphalt Driveway Installation Pros

Have we missed anything? If you’re considering a new asphalt driveway in Ocean County, Monmouth County, or the surrounding areas, give Certified Asphalt a call. We offer complete asphalt installation and maintenance services. We will be happy to come out and assess your situation and provide you with an accurate estimate. Contact us today!

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