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.

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!