Expert paving professionals in Indiana are accustomed to answering all sorts of pavement repair and road construction questions about asphalt. After all, it is the professionals in the industry who retain the accurate and qualified information real estate proprietors can trust. But of all the questions asked by asphalt paving clients, there are five that tend to always make the cut. If you are preparing to repair or fund an upcoming asphalt pavement project, you likely have these same inquiries. Before making any final decisions about asphalt installation or repair, it will help to get some basic answers regarding your concerns or requests for information.

Continue reading to review the top 5 most frequently asked questions and answers discussed in the asphalt paving industry, plus, to save you some time and frustration, a bonus tip on which commercial paving service to trust for superior pavement work in Central Indiana.

Asphalt Pavement Contractor Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

Top 5 Asphalt Paving Questions

What is the Average Lifespan of Asphalt Pavement?

So long as asphalt surfaces are installed and cared for properly, they can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years or more, depending on regional weather and natural wear and tear. Sealcoating is a protective layer that further slows the natural wear and tear (cracking, crumbling, potholes, dips, swells, etc.) that outdoor pavements are subject to on a daily basis. It also protects against UV rays, chemical spills, oil accretions, water permeation, oxidation, fading, and more. It is important to have your asphalt surfaces routinely sealcoated for ultimate protection.

How Often Should Asphalt Pavement Be Sealcoated?

The general rule of thumb in the paving industry for asphalt sealcoating intervals is 3 to 5 years. Why sealcoat? Asphalt sealcoating is an effective solution for protecting asphalt against natural wear and tear and preserves the fresh appeal of blacktop for years. A proper sealcoat also protects asphalt surfaces from the harmful UV rays of the sun. When these rays penetrate the asphalt foundation, it can cause it to weaken and wear away over time. A layer of sealcoat acts as a shield against these UV rays and extends the life of pavement for years to come.

What are the Causes of Asphalt Damage and How Can it Be Prevented?

The biggest culprit behind asphalt deterioration is sitting surface water. When water sits on top of asphalt, it slowly breaks down its barriers, making it more vulnerable to damage like cracks, crevices, and potholes. The second biggest culprit is lack of proper maintenance. Seal coating and accurate installation are just the beginning. It is important to implement routine maintenance like cleaning and storm water management to protect from issues like these.

What is the Recommended Maintenance for Asphalt Parking Lots?

Routine pavement maintenance is the logical solution to obtaining a well preserved parking lot. Proprietors should outsource a professional asphalt and concrete service and repair company to provide regular maintenance and care for their pavements. This will ensure long-lasting appeal and safety, as well as durability and strength. This includes clearly marked paint, accessible handicap spots, pothole maintenance, identifiable pedestrian cross points, seal coating, and more. It also includes proper parking lot drainage to prevent water accumulation from melted snow or rain.

Is Asphalt a Good Choice?

Asphalt is a porous pavement material, which means it allows water to drain right through it and then naturally returns it to the local water table. This prevents standing surface water, flooding, and offers several other environmental benefits. Also, asphalt is cost-effective, easy to maintain, and lasts for several years. It also promotes better fuel mileage because driving on smooth surfaces reduces gas consumption!

Are you looking for professional asphalt pavement parking lot services for your business or company lot in Indiana? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and industrial-level asphalt repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also provide asphalt sealcoating services.

What Makes Asphalt and Concrete Different?

Asphalt and concrete are made from different materials, giving them separate sets of qualities, both positive and negative. Asphalt is generally a bitumen and tar-based material that is primarily used for coatings, sealing road joints, and blacktops or roads. Concrete is mostly comprised of cement and other aggregates, like sand, pebbles, or crushed rock. Because of its high compressible strength and versatility, it is commonly used in the building and construction industry.

Is Concrete Cheaper Than Asphalt?

When it comes to installation, asphalt is not only cheaper, but easier as well. It is also easier to repair compared to concrete pavements. However, asphalt does requires more routine maintenance. Per square foot, the average cost of asphalt ranges between $2 and $4, depending on crude oil prices and other economic factors. Concrete is more expensive, averaging between $3 and $10, depending on various factors. However, it is easier to care for and lasts a lot longer than asphalt pavements. When you add in maintenance costs for asphalt, the overall price nearly balances out to the same as concrete.

Which Pavements are Best for Asphalt? For Concrete?

Asphalt and concrete are suitable materials for roads, highways, sidewalks, tarmacs, landing strips, and much more. They are both used in the road construction industry, as well as the building and property construction industry. When choosing between the two, you want to consider the unique variables of your property to determine the best option. Talk to your licensed paver for professional advice.

Can Asphalt Be Installed Over Concrete?

Concrete is strong and allows for excellent compaction, making it a suitable base for an asphalt overlay. In fact, several of the roads you drive on have concrete foundations deep underneath them! However, if you wish to overlay a concrete surface with asphalt, you must understand that there can be factors that can generate negative side effects. Consult a professional paver for advice that is unique to your particular property.

Where Can I Find Trusted Indianapolis Paving Near Me?

ACI Asphalt Concrete 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis paving and installation you can trust. Our paving contractors are licensed, bonded, and insured, and have decades of combined hands-on experience in the road construction and design industry. Request a free estimate, today.

ACI ASPHALT & CONCRETE

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The Top 5 Questions Every Client Wants to Know About Asphalt Paving