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 ...
Parking Lot Sealcoating – When is the Best Time to Have It Done
Remember how great your asphalt parking lot looked when it was first installed? Like every other aspect of a commercial property, it needs to be maintained to keep it in good condition. If your parking lot is showing signs of wear and tear, parking lot sealcoating is a great way to refresh and protect an asphalt surface. Wondering if your parking lot needs to be seal coated? Understanding what sealcoating is and when is the best time to have it done can help answer that question. What is Sealcoating? Sealcoating sometimes referred to as liquid asphalt, is a protective coating. It is made from a combination of liquid and tiny granular particles. It typically contains oils and materials commonly used in asphalt paving including dissolved asphalt and is applied by spraying or spreading it with a squeegee. The particles fill in small cracks, creating a smooth and level surface. Any large cracks or potholes should be filled before parking lot sealcoating begins. The oils soak into the existing asphalt to replace those that have been depleted. In addition to restoring the asphalt to an ‘almost brand new’ condition, sealcoating protects asphalt surfaces from the sun, water, chemicals, and abrasion caused by ...