Can I Cover Concrete With Asphalt?

There are plenty of workable options when it comes to renovating an existing concrete foundation. But most options are not DIY friendly, leaving many busy proprietors tempted to simply cover it with freshly-paved asphalt. Is this possible? Are there risks to doing so? Continue reading to learn what to expect if you decide to pave over concrete with asphalt, including the common side effects that might arise.

Indianapolis Asphalt Concrete Service
Indianapolis Asphalt Concrete Service 317-549-1833

Is it Possible to Pave Over Concrete With Asphalt?

Yes, it is possible to pave over concrete with asphalt. As it turns out, concrete is a suitable base material, and will provide a stable and strong foundation for additional layers of building materials or structures. As for asphalt, a concrete base provides the perfect conditions for excellent asphalt compaction, which is important for ultimate pavement function, appeal, and longevity.

However, there are certain factors that you should consider before moving forward with your pavement overlay. Here are a few likely scenarios:

Unstable Soil – If the concrete was not originally paved over stable soil, the unstable soil conditions will likely impact any new layers of pavement poured on top, whether asphalt or more concrete. Slabs will pivot at their expansion joints, and eventually move with traffic, causing heaves, depressions, cracks, and more; quite a bumpy ride, needless to say.

Expansion Joints – On the topic of concrete expansion joints, they have the tendency to shift overtime. When this happens, cracks can form in the concrete base, and anywhere there is a crack in the concrete base, a crack will form in the same place in the asphalt. This is known as reflective cracking.

Fatigued Cracking – A scattered series of interconnected crack lines in pavement is called fatigued cracking. The structural failure of an HMA (hot asphalt mix) surface or stabilized base is generally caused by repetitive loading and heavy traffic. Overall, inadequate structural support is the common cause of fatigued cracking.

Trust a Professional Asphalt and Concrete Contractor for Advice

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for commercial and large-scale asphalt and concrete paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner Lindsey Lewis, and his team of licensed and insured pavers, provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. Request a free estimate, today.

The Difference Between Sealcoating and Resurfacing

When your commercial asphalt lot begins to show signs of aging, such as cracking, fading, unevenness, and more, it could be time to have it repaired. In the paving industry, there are two primary options for this kind of asphalt repair: sealcoating and resurfacing. Although there are also options for micro-surfacing, milling, and similar solutions, most often, good condition pavement with some minor wear and tear can be renovated with these two common options.

Continue reading to learn the difference between sealcoating and resurfacing, as well as, how to make the best choice for your commercial pavement.

Indianapolis Asphalt Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Asphalt Repair 317-549-1833

Sealcoating

Sealcoating is a preventative application meant to protect the surface of pavement, thus extending its life and the quality of its performance. It involves applying one or two layers of asphalt material, known as sealant, for the purpose of protecting cracks, gaps, and other vulnerable or permeable areas. If you have ever seen a stunning, perfectly smoothed-out blacktop,you have seen a proper sealcoating job.

But even though sealcoating delivers an exceptional curb appeal, it is also one of the most important parts of asphalt maintenance. In fact, it is recommended to have your commercial asphalt lot resealed every 3 to5 years, depending on the amount of traffic your lot gets and the extent of inclement weather in your region. See our blog, “Frequently Asked Questions about Sealcoating” to learn more about the process and its advantages.

Resurfacing

Resurfacing asphalt is also known as overlaying. Overlays are a great option for lots that have extensive surface damage that cannot just be filled in and evened out with sealant. Resurfacing involves tilling up and removing the top few inches of asphalt, and replacing it with new material. Essentially,it is like installing a new asphalt surface, but without all the ground work.

Many property owners enjoy the cost-effectiveness and instant gratification of asphalt overlays, which is why they are a common serviced provided by pavement repair companies. In contrast to resealing, an asphalt lot should only be overlaid every 15 to 20 years or so. Concrete can also be resurfaced. See our blog, “Deciding Between Concrete Repair or Concrete Resurfacing” to learn more about this topic if you have a commercial concrete lot.

Who to Choose for Commercial Pavement Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis pavement repair and sealcoating services you can trust. Our team of skilled paving contractors are licensed, bonded, and insured, and have decades of combined hands-on experience in the road construction and design industry. We provide paving services for both asphalt and concrete. Request a free estimate, today.

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833