Blog - Certified Asphalt LLC

December 27, 2022 Asphalt Driveway Installation, Recycled Asphalt 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Why You Should Consider Recycled Asphalt Driveway Installation

In an effort to conserve natural resources and be environmentally friendly, many industries have looked for ways to recycle. However, for the asphalt paving industry, recycling is nothing new. Recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) has been used since the 1970s. Initially used as a response to the energy crisis of that decade, its popularity has fluctuated over the years. Today with the focus on sustainable practices, the use of recycled asphalt is on the rise. Before we get into why you should consider recycled asphalt driveway installation, let’s take a look at how asphalt is recycled.

What is Recycled Asphalt?

When an asphalt driveway, parking lot, or roadway needs to be replaced, the old asphalt is removed and ground into small gravel-sized pieces, commonly known as asphalt millings. The millings are often used as the base material for new asphalt installations. Because asphalt millings contain tar, they can create a stronger bond than other base materials. It can also be added to hot-mix asphalt While RAP is more commonly used in commercial applications, that doesn’t mean recycled asphalt driveway installation is out of the question.

Is Recycled Asphalt Durable?

It is a common misconception that recycled asphalt doesn’t last as long as new asphalt. When processed properly, RAP is just as durable as new asphalt. With that in mind, you may want to discuss the benefits of using RAP for your asphalt installation.

An Environmentally Conscious Choice

The impact of recycled asphalt driveway installation may be small compared to that of large commercial applications, but equally important to those concerned about the environment. Using RAP prevents another truckload of asphalt from ending up in a landfill. This is significant because asphalt is not biodegradable. It will remain in that landfill forever. Also when using RAP as a base for asphalt installation, it reduces the use of other natural resources such as sand, stone, and gravel.

A More Cost-Effective Option

The production process is much shorter and therefore less expensive than using new asphalt. The cost can significantly be reduced if the recycled asphalt is from your existing driveway or parking lot. This also reduces transportation costs to bring new asphalt, making RAP a much more cost-effective option.

Partial or Full Removal of Existing Asphalt

Recycled asphalt can be used in either situation. Consult with your asphalt contractor as complete removal of your driveway may not be necessary. Often just the top layer can be removed and milled to be reinstalled This process is often used in large commercial paving projects such as roads and parking lots. In addition, this reduces installation time as a new sub-base isn’t necessary and existing structure such as drains are undisturbed.

Gives Your Image a Boost

Whether you’re a business in need of a new parking lot or a homeowner in need of a new driveway, choosing to use recycled asphalt can boost your image. While this might not be a big concern for the homeowner, it can be extremely beneficial for a business owner. Those individuals who are environmentally conscious, often tend to patronize businesses that are as well.

Professional Recycled Asphalt Driveway Installation

Wondering if recycled asphalt is the right choice for you? 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!

November 22, 2022 Asphalt Driveway Installation, Asphalt Paving Services, Asphalt Repair, Commercial Asphalt Paving 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

NJ Asphalt Services – Why Schedule Them Now For Next Spring

As a home or business owner, you understand the importance of maintaining your property. Part of that maintenance includes taking care of your asphalt surfaces. Although now may not be the best time for asphalt repair or replacement, it’s the perfect time to schedule NJ asphalt service for next spring. There are many good reasons to get your residential or commercial asphalt service booked now. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Fix Winter Damage

During the winter months, your asphalt pavement is constantly exposed to the elements. In NJ, that means plenty of snow and ice in the winter. The freeze-thaw cycles can cause significant damage to your asphalt, including cracks and potholes. By scheduling NJ asphalt services for next spring, you can have any winter damage repaired before it gets worse and avoid larger problems down the road. There are also steps you can take to minimize winter asphalt damage.

Beat the Rush

Scheduling NJ asphalt services for next spring may seem like a strange thing to do in the middle of winter, but it actually makes a lot of sense. The demand for NJ asphalt services is highest in the summer when everyone is trying to get their properties ready for warmer weather. By scheduling services now, you can avoid the rush and get your driveway or parking lot serviced at a time that’s convenient for you.

Lock in Savings

Asphalt companies sometimes have lower prices in the spring when business is slow. Scheduling service now for next spring can help you avoid the price hikes that come with high demand. By getting an estimate now, you can budget for any necessary repairs and save money in the long run. You may also be able to take advantage of early booking discounts offered by some contractors. So, if you’re thinking about NJ asphalt services for next spring, now is the time to schedule them.

Prepare for Summer

If you have NJ asphalt services scheduled for next spring, you can rest assured that your driveway or parking lot will be in good shape when the warm weather arrives. This will allow you to enjoy your summer without having to worry about asphalt repairs. Knowing that your asphalt surfaces have been professionally installed or repaired can provide peace of mind.

Avoid Emergency Repairs

If you wait to schedule NJ asphalt services until something goes wrong, you may end up having to pay for emergency repairs. Scheduling regular asphalt maintenance and repair now for next spring can help you avoid emergency repairs and prevent minor issues from becoming major expenses.

Ideal Weather Conditions

Spring and summer provide the best weather to install or repair asphalt. Although it is possible to install or repair asphalt when the temperature is above 55 degrees, 70 degrees is the optimal temperature for asphalt to set properly. Scheduling NJ asphalt services now for next spring means that you’ll have ideal weather conditions for the work to be done.

Ready to Schedule NJ Asphalt Services for Next Spring?

Now is the perfect time. 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 to schedule asphalt installation or maintenance for next spring and get a free estimate. Remember, proper care can extend the lifetime of your asphalt surface and protect your investment.

October 25, 2022 Asphalt Driveway Installation, Asphalt Paving Services, Commercial Asphalt Paving 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Asphalt Installation – The Perfect Choice for Your Paving Project

If you need to install a commercial parking lot or replace your home’s driveway, you may be trying to decide whether asphalt installation is the best choice for your project. Asphalt is often the popular choice for both projects because of the many benefits it offers home and business owners. Think about it – why do you think highways and other roadways have asphalt surfaces? Here are some of the reasons why.

Cost Effective

Asphalt installation is one of the most cost-effective paving options compared to concrete or other materials. Although the price of asphalt fluctuates with the cost of crude oil, it is typically less expensive than concrete or other paving materials and can be installed even faster. This reduces labor costs and allows you to start using your new paved surface sooner. Concrete typically takes seven days to cure, while an asphalt surface is ready for use in only three days.

Natural Flexibility

Asphalt is a naturally flexible pavement material. It can withstand small movements and shifts in the ground or heavy traffic without cracking or breaking. This flexibility is one of the key reasons why asphalt is such a popular choice for paved surfaces, including commercial driveways and parking lots that experience a high volume of traffic.

Low Maintenance

Another benefit of asphalt paving is its resistance to inclement weather. Properly installed and maintained asphalt can withstand heavy rains and snowfall without being damaged. However, if cracks and potholes are not repaired, water can seep below the surface. This can create a freeze-and-thaw situation during inclement weather, turning minor maintenance into major repairs. That said, if repairs are necessary, they can be done more easily than with concrete paving.

Smooth Surface

Asphalt installation provides a smooth surface that is perfect for driving, walking, and biking. An asphalt surface is free of construction joints that can create tripping hazards or roadway noise. Asphalt is quieter than concrete, making it ideal for neighborhoods and residential areas. Its dark color makes roadway markings and parking lot striping more visible. The smooth, shiny surface of asphalt can also boost the curb appeal of your home or business and increase your property value.

Sustainability

Asphalt installation is the most sustainable paving project choice you can make. Asphalt pavements are recyclable, so they have a smaller environmental footprint than other types of pavement. It is also more energy efficient to produce than concrete. Asphalt pavements last longer than concrete, so they require less maintenance over time. This means fewer resources are used to repair and maintain asphalt pavements, making them more sustainable than concrete.

Stains

Over time, paved surfaces like driveways, parking lots, and roadways are subjected to stains from oil and other fluids that leak from vehicles. These dark stains will be extremely obvious on concrete surfaces. However, on asphalt’s dark surface, the stains will blend in and be less obvious.

Asphalt Installation by the Pros

Think asphalt installation is the right choice for your pavement project? Certified Asphalt provides full-service commercial and residential asphalt paving services in Oceana County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas. Backed by over 20 years of experience, we specialize in asphalt paving, milling, repair, sealcoating, and pavement maintenance. Our expert team can help you identify the problems in your asphalt surface and decide what type of asphalt maintenance or repair is best for your individual need. 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!

September 27, 2022 Sealcoating 0 comments by Certified Asphalt

Parking Lot & Driveway Sealcoating NJ – Is Fall Too Late?

Do you remember what your asphalt parking lot or driveway looked like when it was new? Wouldn’t it be great if it always looked that good? Although it may still be structurally sound, as the years roll by that rich black color is probably starting to fade. There’s no need to worry. Sealcoating will not only restore your asphalt surface but will also help to extend its lifespan by protecting it from the elements and everyday wear and tear. If you’re considering parking lot or driveway sealcoating in NJ, it’s important to note that it can only be done at certain times of the year. As we head into fall, you may be wondering if it’s too late to schedule sealcoating. That depends on a few factors but first, let’s take a look at the sealcoating process.

What is Sealcoating?

Sealcoating is a process that involves applying a protective layer to an asphalt surface. This layer acts as a barrier, protecting the asphalt from weather damage, UV rays, oil and gas spills, and other potential hazards. Sealcoating is usually either coal tar or an asphalt-based material.

To properly apply sealcoating, the surface must be clean and dry. All cracks and potholes must be repaired prior to sealcoating. Once the repairs are made, the surface is cleaned with a power washer or steam cleaner. This step is important because any dirt, grease, or oil on the surface will prevent the sealcoating from adhering properly. Once the surface is clean, a layer of tack coat is applied. This helps the sealcoating to stick to the asphalt. The final step is applying the sealcoating which is typically done with a sprayer or squeegee.

When is the Best Time for Sealcoating?

The best time to apply parking lot or driveway sealcoating in NJ is in the spring or early summer when temperatures are between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s too hot, the sealcoating will dry too quickly and won’t adhere properly. If it’s too cold, the sealcoating won’t dry properly and will be more susceptible to tracking.

Fall Sealcoating Challenges

While it can be possible to apply sealcoating in the fall, there are a few potential challenges.

The first is that the weather can be unpredictable. You may have a few warm days followed by a cold snap, or it could rain. This can cause the sealcoating not to dry properly or to track.

Another challenge is that leaves will start to fall from the trees. If they land on wet sealcoating, they will leave marks.

The amount of daylight in the fall can also be an issue when sealcoating. With shorter days, there are fewer working hours and less sunlight to dry the sealcoating. If you are sealcoating a larger surface, there may not be enough daylight to properly complete the project.

Despite the cooler fall temperatures, humidity can still be a factor. The higher the humidity, the less air there is for evaporation which facilitates the drying process. Humidity can slow the process down considerably, creating the potential for improper drying or tracking.

Professional Parking Lot & Driveway Sealcoating in NJ

With all that said, it doesn’t mean parking lot or driveway sealcoating in NJ can’t be done once summer is over. The asphalt and sealcoating professionals at Certified Asphalt will be able to determine if your asphalt surface can be seal coated in the fall.

Certified Asphalt provides full-service commercial and residential asphalt services to Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding areas. We specialize in asphalt paving, milling, 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. Fully licensed and insured, we guarantee your complete satisfaction! Contact us today for a free estimate!

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!

Get a Free Estimate