How to Spot Poor Quality Commercial Pavement Workmanship

Posted on February 7, 2023 by admin

When commercial paving is done poorly, it can cause a number of problems that range from costly repairs to safety issues. That’s why it’s important to understand how to spot poor quality commercial pavement workmanship. Poorly executed commercial paving projects can lead to uneven surfaces, cracks and other damage that could be hazardous for pedestrians or vehicles. The good news is there are several ways you can identify potential problems with commercial paving before they become serious issues.

Continue reading to review some simple tips on what to look for when assessing the quality of commercial pavement workmanship.

Call 317-549-1833 For Commercial Asphalt and Concrete Repair in Indianapolis IN.

Performing a Commercial Pavement Quality Check

1. Inspect the Surface: Take a close look at the commercial paving project and keep an eye out for any irregularities in level or cracks in the pavement. Imperfections in commercial paving can be caused by poor preparation, improper materials, and inadequate drainage systems.

2. Check for Cleanliness: Poorly executed commercial paving projects can often look messy, with chunks of asphalt and dirt all over the area. If you notice any disorganization or uncleanliness in the commercial paving project, chances are it was done carelessly.

3. Take a Look at the Sub-Base: The sub-base is an important part of commercial paving projects because it creates a solid foundation for the pavement. If there is insufficient preparation work done on the sub-base, it can lead to instability and further damage in the future. Make sure to check that the commercial paving project includes a solid and well-prepared sub-base before moving forward with any repairs or improvements.

4. Watch Out for Shoddy Edges: Poorly done commercial paving projects can have edges that are not properly sealed, leaving gaps and cracks. Inspect the pavement for any unfinished or faulty edges and make sure they are addressed before the commercial paving project is complete.

Look for Skilled Commercial Paving Service in Indiana

By being aware of these potential problems with commercial paving workmanship, you can save yourself time and money by avoiding costly repairs and other risks. If a commercial paving project does not meet your standards, it is best to consult with an experienced Indiana commercial paving contractor who can help you achieve the desired results. With the right commercial asphalt and concrete contractors on your side, you can be sure that your commercial pavement job will last for years to come.

Are you looking for a trustworthy commercial pavement and road construction company in the Central Indiana area? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a licensed and insured paving contractor about commercial pothole repair and cold patching in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

How Thick Should Pavement Be?

Posted on December 13, 2022 by admin

Thick pavement is the key to a long lasting surface, whether you are working with asphalt or concrete. It can be tough to determine how thick your pavement should be, but with the right knowledge, you can make sure your paved surface or lot has enough thickness and durability to last for many years. In this blog post, we will discuss how thick asphalt and concrete pavement should be, as well as tips on how to determine the best thickness for your project. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your driveway is built to last.

For Commercial Asphalt and Concrete Paving in Indianapolis, Call 317-549-1833 Today.

Proper Thickness for Asphalt and Concrete Pavement

Asphalt and concrete are both popular materials used for paved surfaces, each offering its own advantages and characteristics. As with any large-scale project involving either type of pavement, one of the most important considerations is achieving the correct thickness. Asphalt pavement should typically be laid between 4 inches and 6 inches thick. Residential driveways should be between 2 to 3 inches thick and commercial lots should be between 6 and 7 inches thick.

It is also important to remember that the asphalt layer should be supported by a strong base beneath it. If the granular base aggregate is not deep enough, the road surface can become compromised and result in further issues. Deeply compacted soils such as clay are also not suitable for supporting an asphalt surface, and this should be taken into consideration when laying your pavement. For best results, the base aggregate should be 6 to 8 inches deep for a stable and long-lasting asphalt surface.

Concrete slabs usually need to be at least 4 inches thick depending on factors such as traffic volumes and number of cycles traveled over the surface. For light use, concrete should be a minimum of 4 inches thick. Moderate regularity requires that the layer is 5 to 6 inches, while heavy utilization calls for 7 or more due to its enhanced durability and stability. By selecting the right thickness for concrete, a properly laid pavement can provide long lasting durability that delivers optimal results.

What Happens if Asphalt is Too Thin?

If the asphalt layer is too thin, it can result in a number of issues. The road surface may begin to crack and deteriorate quickly due to normal wear and tear, as well as extreme weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold. A thin asphalt layer will also be unable to support the same amount of weight that a thicker layer can. It is important to ensure that the asphalt layer on your property meets the recommended minimum thickness based on local regulations and standards. If you are unsure of what these standards are, it is best to consult a professional for advice. Additionally, an experienced Indianapolis commercial paving contractor should be able to assess your existing surface and provide suitable recommendations.

Tips on How to Determine the Best Thickness for Your Paving Project

1. The thickness of your paving project will depend on the surface you are paving.

2. If you are paving a driveway or patio, a thicker slab is recommended.

3. For other projects, such as sidewalks or pathways, a thinner slab may be sufficient.

4. Always consult with a professional before starting your paving project to get their expert opinion.

By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the best thickness for your paving needs and budget!

Choosing Between Concrete and Asphalt

When it comes to paving a large surface or lot, choosing between concrete and asphalt can be a difficult decision. Asphalt is usually less expensive and quicker to install than concrete, but it requires more maintenance over time due to its susceptibility to damage from water, snow, ice, and chemicals from car exhaust. Concrete is more durable and can last longer, but the installation process is more time-consuming and costly.

When deciding between concrete or asphalt for your project, consider factors such as cost, installation time and maintenance requirements. Asphalt tends to be less expensive than concrete and can be installed in a short amount of time. However, it requires frequent sealing every two to three years to protect against wear and tear. Meanwhile, concrete is more expensive and takes longer to install, but does not require regular sealing to stay in good condition.

Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages; the best option for your paved surface depends on your budget, time constraints, and maintenance expectations. Consider all of these factors before making a decision to ensure you get the best result for your parking lot. No matter which material you choose, proper installation and maintenance are essential for extending its life span and ensuring that your parking lot looks its best.

With the right combination of materials and expert installation, your parking lot will be a functional and attractive centerpiece for years to come. Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed, bonded, and insured pavement installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana.

A Quick Comparison of Warm Mix Asphalt and Hot Mix Asphalt

Posted on April 28, 2022 by admin

We walk on it, drive on it, appreciate its appeal, but seldom actually know what it’s made of. We are talking about asphalt pavements, of course! Conventional asphalt is comprised of course aggregate, stone, gravel, fine aggregate, sand, and petroleum-based asphalt cement. All of these constituents are melted down to form the black, bituminous material we know as asphalt. Also referred to as bitumen, asphalt mix can be prepared in a number of ways, but the two most common asphalt mixes used in the industry are warm mix and hot mix asphalt.

Continue below to review a quick comparison of warm mix asphalt and hot mix asphalt and move forward with the knowledge you need to make the right paving decision for project.

Indianapolis IN Asphalt Paving Contractors 317-549-1833

Hot Mix Versus Cold Mix

Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA)

Hot mix asphalt is the most popular and widely-used asphalt paving material in the country. Manufactured at temperatures ranging from 300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, you can see where it gets its name. It is flexible, making it more resistant to premature damages like cracking. It is also weather resistant, especially effective at repelling water. Because of its beneficial properties, hot mix asphalt is the top material used to pave highways, interstates, and roadways.

There are three different grades of HMA: dense-graded, stone matrix, and open grade. Since hot mix asphalt cools rapidly, it must be laid in certain weather conditions. Ideally, the outdoor temperature should be at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the weather should be dry and ambient.

Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA)

Warm mix asphalt (WMA) is not used as much as hot mix asphalt. Only about 30 percent of paving jobs are done using warm mix asphalt. Warm mix asphalt is produced at much lower temperatures in comparison to HMA, usually between 200 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm asphalt mix can still deliver high performing results at lower temperatures because of its manufacturing process. It is made with additional binding materials like wax, emulsions, and zeolites, which also make the mix easier to work with.

Furthermore, WMA is Eco-friendly because it uses less fossil fuels and resources, and generates less dust, fumes, and smoke. Opposite of hot mix asphalt, warm mix does not cool as quickly. But this is an advantage, as it can withstand longer shipping distances and be used outside of the usual road construction seasons.

Are you looking for professional commercial asphalt paving in the Central Indiana region? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis Indiana asphalt paving and sealcoating services at the most competitive rates in the central parts of the state. We serve commercial, industrial, and municipal clients.

FAQS for First Time Commercial Paving Clients

Posted on March 17, 2022 by admin

Here at ACI Asphalt & Concrete, our expert paving contractors have more than 30 years of hands-on experience working and training in the pavement construction industry. Our longstanding, full-service road maintenance and paving company is operated by hands-on owners, managers, and supporting staffs. We are happy to provide additional information regarding the asphalt and concrete pavement services we offer in Central Indiana. You can get in touch with a live member of our team by calling our office directly at 317-549-1833 during regular business hours, or by submitting an email on our website.

In the meantime, continue below to review some of the most frequently asked questions we get from first-time commercial paving clients. These answers can help you better understand what to expect from our professional pavement repair and paving services.

Indianapolis Asphalt Sealcoating Service 317-549-1833

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Commercial Paving Operations

How Much Do You Charge Per Square Foot?

Some of the first questions we get about our commercial and industrial paving services have to do with pricing; and rightly so. After all, a wise businessperson knows that proper budgeting and construction cost analyses are critical steps towards protecting a company’s overall bottom line. Here at ACI Asphalt & Concrete, we take your budget seriously by generating precision bids and estimates for paving work.

As for the price per square foot, there are several factors that will influence the rate, including the size of the lot, location, scope of work, and much more. On-site evaluation can give our commercial paving contractors better insight on how much your road construction or pavement work will cost per square foot.

Is Asphalt Better Than Concrete?

When it comes to new construction work, property owners always want to know if they should go with asphalt or concrete. The answer really depends on personal preference and intended function of the paved surface. Asphalt and concrete are both quality paving materials that last a long time with good care. Asphalt is generally preferred for parking lots and driveways because of its brilliant luster and appearance. Asphalt will last up to twenty years with good maintenance, only requiring periodic crack filling, sealcoating, and perhaps an overlay or two within that time period.

Concrete is a permeable pavement, and therefore more prone to surface damages. But it is cost-effective, generally cheaper than asphalt, and a great paving material for applications like flooring, sidewalks, curbs, bollards, patios, terraces, pool decking, and more. One of our certified Indianapolis paving contractors can help you decide on the best paving material for your intended application.

Can You Pave Asphalt Over Concrete?

Many of our first-time commercial paving clients want to cover up an old concrete surface with fresh asphalt. Yes; you can pave asphalt over concrete, so long as you choose the right Indianapolis commercial paving company. Here at ACI Asphalt & Concrete, we use the latest technologies and top-of-the-line materials to implement all paving projects in accordance with all project details and specifications.

How Long Does It Take for Pavement to Cure Completely?

Many of our commercial paving clients are eager to know how long they have to stay off of a freshly paved surface before they can start using it again. The answer really depends on the type of paving material, plus several other factors, such as regional temperatures, climate conditions, surrounding landscaping, water drainage, and more.

On average, new asphalt takes anywhere from 2 to 3 days to completely cure. Three months after new asphalt has been paved, it should be sealcoated. After sealcoating, you must wait at least 24 hours before using the pavement. Concrete requires around the same amount of time to cure, but sometimes longer depending on the factors mentioned above.

How Often Do I Need to Seal My Asphalt Lot?

Once you have new asphalt paved, you must wait 90 days or so before having it sealcoated. It is recommended to reseal asphalt every 3 to 4 months for optimal protection and longevity. Sealcoating is one of the most important steps towards maintaining a functional and appealing asphalt lot.

Why Choose ACI Asphalt & Concrete?

✨ Over 30 Years of Experience

✨ A+ BBB Rating

✨ Licensed, Bonded & Insured

✨ Free Estimates

✨ 100% Honesty & Integrity

✨ Commercial & Industrial

✨ Satisfaction Guarantee

✨ Cutting-Edge Technology

Do you have more questions about your commercial or industrial paving needs? Contact us at 317-549-1833 to speak with a licensed and insured company manager, today. We serve all of Central Indiana with industrial and commercial paving services.

Commercial and Industrial Pavement Repair

Is it Possible to Lay Asphalt on Top of Concrete?

Posted on March 10, 2022 by admin

Concrete is economical and cost-effective choice for property owners. But over time, concrete damages can really reduce the overall curb appeal, and therefore value of a property. For this reason, it is very common for property owners to make the switch to asphalt pavement. Asphalt, like concrete, offers a wide range of benefits, such as cost efficiency, appeal, and long-lasting performance.

But how can you responsively make the switch from concrete to asphalt? You might be wondering if you can simply pave asphalt on top of concrete. Well, in most situations, you can. However, there are times when comprehensive demolition must take place before paving a new asphalt.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about paving asphalt over concrete, including which commercial paving company to trust in central Indiana for superior advice and craftsmanship.

Commercial Industrial Asphalt Overlays Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

Benefits of Asphalt Pavement

Although concrete is a wonderful and predominant paving material used all across the world in various industries and applications, asphalt is a wise choice for many types of paving projects. From driveways and parking lots to athletic courts, and more, asphalt is a good fit in a compatible option for paving.

Some of the most prominent benefits of asphalt include lustrous finishes, stunning curb appeal, low cost, low maintenance, and longevity. With good care and maintenance, asphalt lots can last anywhere between 10 and 30 years.

Additionally, many would think that concrete is cheaper than asphalt, but asphalt is more cost-effective in the long run. Concrete generally runs anywhere from 3 to 10 dollars per square foot, while asphalt runs an average of 1 to 3 dollars per square foot.

Paving Asphalt on Top of Concrete

It is possible to lay asphalt on top of concrete pavement, so long as you are using the proper techniques and industry best practices. This means hiring is skilled in seasoned Indianapolis Indiana commercial paving company for the job. Here’s what you need to know about paving asphalt over concrete:

Concrete makes an excellent base material for asphalt paving. This is mostly due to the fact that concrete allows better compaction of the asphalt, which is an important element of paving, but also because concrete has an innate ability to bridge any degree of soil or ground instability.

Concrete, when installed properly from the beginning, is constructed with good ground reinforcement and aggregate layering. This also contributes to its ability to make a good base for asphalt paving.

Just because concrete makes an excellent base material for asphalt paving does not mean that it is always in good enough condition for an asphalt paving project. It is imperative to address and resolve any concrete instability issues, including expansion joint movements or cracking, before laying asphalt on top of concrete.

If these types of damages are not repaired before paving asphalt over concrete, any type of expansion joint shifting or slab movements will present itself in the form of asphalt surface cracks and similar damages.

Are you searching for a qualified Indiana commercial paving company in your area? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a licensed contractor about commercial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

Is it Warm Enough to Lay Asphalt Yet?

Posted on February 17, 2022 by admin

Here in Central Indiana, the temperatures have certainly warmed up in the recent days. Our region went from 26°F to almost 55° as of today, and it’s the middle of February! With this occasional and unprecedented warm weather front in the midst of winter, our commercial pavers are always asked if it is warm enough to perform asphalt work yet.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know when it comes to the best temperatures for asphalt projects, plus how to get started with a commercial paving bid for your business or real estate development.

Commercial Asphalt Work Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

The Best Time of Year for Asphalt Work

Within the Hoosier construction and building industry, namely when it comes to pavement work, the rule of thumb holds strong, insisting that the best time of year for asphalt work is between mid-June and September. During these months, the climate is drier, calmer, and all around more predictable in comparison to other seasons throughout the year. You never want to lay asphalt and rainy weather nor in climates that are too cold or too hot. The weather and climate should be ambient to support the most successful outcomes for asphalt projects.

Although the industry rule of thumb claims that June through September are the best months for asphalt work, it does not mean that asphalt installation projects cannot be successfully completed prior to or thereafter this time spectrum. As mentioned, if the weather is ambient and the type of asphalt work specified is compatible, the project can be carried out successfully. It is important to talk to your trusted Indiana commercial paving company to ensure that your particular asphalt paving needs can be met in the time of year that you need them.

Considerations for Laying Asphalt in Cold Weather

there are several considerations taken from a professional standpoint when assessing the compatibility of an asphalt project in the cooler seasons of the year. Principally, the top considerations when determining if asphalt work can be carried out in a colder season include ambient temperature, ground temperature, pavement thickness, temperature of asphalt mix, and how much sun is expected for the day. All of these factors play an important role in the overall success of an asphalt installation project.

Sealcoating Asphalt

Contrary to asphalt laying, asphalt sealcoating can be done so long as the outdoor temperatures are between 50°F and 85°F. Any temperatures cooler or hotter than that are not compatible with asphalt sealcoating work.

Are you looking for a qualified commercial paving service to help you prepare your asphalt pavements for the upcoming seasons? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis Indiana asphalt paving and sealcoating services at the most competitive rates in the central parts of the state. We serve commercial, industrial, and municipal clients.

The Benefits of Using Concrete for Construction Applications

Posted on January 20, 2022 by admin

Have you ever heard anyone use the phrase concrete jungle to describe an industrial or commercial complex or area of the city? Although this colloquial term may seem to imply a negative point, there is actually very good reasons why concrete is used so predominantly in the building and construction industry. If you are preparing to build, whether new construction, conversion, or remodel, these reasons will be important to you once the planning process begins.

Continue reading to learn the various benefits of using concrete for construction applications, plus who to choose for superior and unparalleled commercial and industrial paving services and social Indiana.

Commercial Concrete Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

The Advantages of Concrete

Concrete delivers a wide range of benefits in the building and construction industry. Known for being durable, low maintenance, and Eco-friendly, concrete is exceptionally compatible for several different applications.

Concrete is Durable and Long-Lasting

Concrete is generally comprised of a collection of aggregates, which can be sand, gravel, or dirt, and a bonding agent, which is usually cement, but can also be vitamin in some cases. Because of this unique composition, concrete is highly durable and long-lasting. With proper care and good maintenance, concrete pavements and installations can last decades longer than wood or steel building components. In fact, concrete hardens over time, making it even more resilient as the years pass by.

Concrete does not rust, oxidize, rot, or burn. However, concrete is susceptible to corrosion and similar damages caused by natural wear and tear. With a little maintenance and care, these susceptibilities can be abated significantly.

Concrete is Eco-Friendly

Concrete is also a pragmatic and sensible paving material because it is Eco-friendly. Concrete is considered to be an energy-efficient pavement for a few reasons. First, it does not produce any harmful or toxic carbon emissions during production or installation, like carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide.

Additionally, concrete is hundred percent recyclable. It can be broken down and reused over and over again without losing any important or valuable properties. And for those cold winter months, concrete delivers energy efficiency by retaining heat in itself. This cuts back significantly on heating bills through the season.

Concrete Has Many Applications

Concrete is a predominant and popular paving material in the building and construction industry because it has so many applications and uses. This versatility makes it a valuable paving material and construction tool for residential, commercial, and industrial construction. From roads and interstates to fencing, poles, sidewalks, bridges, overpasses, walls, curbs, parking lots, buildings, statutes, hardscaping, pools, and more, the uses for concrete are virtually endless.

Are you looking for a professional pavement company that can deliver outstanding work for your commercial or industrial concrete project? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial concrete maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout the central parts of the state. Request a bid, today.

Essential Asphalt Paving Strategies for High Performance Results

Posted on November 29, 2021 by admin

When it comes to asphalt paving, all conditions must be compatible to get the best results. This includes the time of year, seasonal weather, state of local environment, and of course, skill of labor. If you are preparing for an asphalt overlay or large-scale commercial asphalt project, there is absolutely no room for risk. You do not want the outcome of your asphalt venture to negatively impact your bottom line.

Continue below to learn some essential asphalt paving strategies that will ensure your asphalt development renders high performance results, including longevity, safety, and curb-appeal.

Indiana Asphalt Contractors 317-549-1833

The Right Time of Year for Asphalt Paving

Because ambient weather is so essential for proper paving results, the best times of year to pave asphalt is during the spring and fall. Namely, there should not be any snow on the ground, nor should the ground be frozen.

Spring is the busiest asphalt paving season, which generally begins right after the final snow melt, and peaks just before June. However, April and May can be troublesome because they are the rainy season here in the Mid-west. Weather has to be just right for proper asphalt paving.

Weather for Asphalt Work

The weather must be dry, and temperatures must be ambient in order to get good results with asphalt work. Rain, snow, and ice are not compatible weather conditions, nor is high levels of heat, moisture, or humidity. If the ground is frozen, asphalt work cannot begin until it has thawed completely, which means freezing temperatures are also non-compatible for asphalt paving. If the forecast calls for bad weather, most asphalt companies will postpone work to a drier day with better climate.

Winter Paving

Most asphalt work is done around the winter season since frozen ground poses all sorts of obstacles and problems with paving. Here in the Mid-west, winter climates do not generally peak until after the holiday seasons, so December asphalt work is usually compatible. If asphalt work is done on frozen ground, the mix can cool to quickly or break apart, leading to premature, if not immediate, cracks, potholes, and similar structural defects.

Cold Mix Asphalt Work

Highly experienced asphalt companies have access to innovative paving technologies and state of the art materials, such as cold mix asphalt, which allows winter asphalt work to commence with guaranteed results. Good paving contractors have the skills to work quickly and efficiently in winter to perform cold season paving without any problems. Choosing a reliable Indiana paving company is critical to outcome of your development.

Does your commercial property require asphalt work this year? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional asphalt paving and winter cold patching pothole repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all through Central Indiana.

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

The Critical Link Between Soil Stability and Paving

Posted on October 28, 2021 by admin

When it comes to paving, there is always the possibility of the unexpected, and often times, unstable ground soil can be one of those unexpected obstacles pavers run into. Continue reading to learn more about soil instability, how it affects the paving process, and of course, how to fix it.

Soil Compaction Paving Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

Top Causes of Soil Instability

The most common causes of unstable soil involve three issues: 1) composition, 2) compaction, and 3) organic matter. The presence of all three of these components, and the degree of their severity, have a direct influence on soil stability, but will vary from property to property.

When the ground is not evenly elevated, soil can be poured into missing gaps to create an even surface. But when soil is not poured and compacted in thin layers, it lacks proper support capacity. Soil must be compacted and uniform to provide a stable foundation for paving.

Soil Composition Affects Stability

When the ground soil contains high traces of organic matter, it can also be very unstable for paving projects. Topsoil, plant matter, and decomposing insects can become a stability problem when mixed with precipitation like rain or snow.

The most common cause of soil instability is composition. Strong soil retains a healthy balance of natural minerals, matter, water, and air. With the right balance, soil is stable enough for paving; but if soil lacks a balanced composition, it can be extremely problematic for paving projects.

How to Solve a Soil Instability Problem Before Laying Pavement

There are several soil stabilization methods paving contractors are likely to use for properties whose ground soil does not meet certain stability criteria. For example, pavers will use drainage tiles to remove excess moisture from soil. More methods of soil stabilization include:

☑ Installing Reinforcement Grids
☑ Chemical Stabilization
☑ Tilling and Turning Over Soil
☑ Dirt Sub-Grade Excavation
☑ Soil Replacement
☑ Soil Bridging
☑ Foamed Asphalt Injections
☑ Installing Soil Separation Fabric
☑ Professional Paving Service

Do you have questions about your commercial paving needs? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed, bonded, and insured pavement installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The Best Weather For Asphalt Paving Projects

Posted on September 28, 2021 by admin

Here in Indiana, the weather tends to significantly fluctuate around this time year. Sometimes summer weather can extend well into September and October, and sometimes the Autumn chill can come sooner than we can say pumpkin pie. This year, for instance, we are experiencing a long summer, as it seems to be with this week’s 80° weather forecast.

So, as who needs asphalt work done on their commercial property, you may be wondering whether now is a good time to move forward. Is it too hot to pave asphalt? Is it going to be too cold to put an asphalt paving project in the books?

Continue reading to learn the facts about the best weather conditions for asphalt paving, including who to call for commercial paving work near you.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving Contractors 317-549-1833

Asphalt Paving is Best Between May and October

The best time of year to pave asphalt is between the months of May and October, give or take depending on the region you live. Here in Indiana, Mid-June through September is a good guideline to adhere to when it comes to scheduling any sort of asphalt work, including asphalt repair, asphalt overlays, or new construction asphalt paving.

Since Indiana and surrounding states experience fluctuating temperatures this time of year, these guidelines can be extended, or in some cases shortened drastically. It is important to consult with a licensed Indianapolis commercial paving company for the best advice on when you’re asphalt project should be scheduled and implemented.

Ground and Ambient Temperatures

Ground temperatures and ambient temperatures are key factors to a successful asphalt paving outcome. If ground temperatures are too cold, the work area cannot render a compatible foundation for a lucrative asphalt paving result. The asphalt mix simply loses heat too quickly and cannot stabilize properly. Accordingly, if ground temperatures are too hot, asphalt mixes may not adhere well to the surface.

Ambient temperature refers to the climate of the day. The best ambient temperatures for asphalt paving lie between 50°F and 80°F. Daily air temperatures lower than 50° Fahrenheit are not conducive to good asphalt paving results. Most paving contractors will refuse to pour asphalt on days with temperatures lower than 50° Fahrenheit.

Solar Radiant Flux

Sunnier days are best for asphalt work because it prevents asphalt from curing too quickly. Known as solar radiant flux, sunshine allows the asphalt mix to maintain equivalent heat distribution and cure properly. So, the sun’s heat can greatly affect the result of an asphalt paving project.

Pavement Thickness

Pavement thickness is another key factor to consider when scheduling an asphalt paving project. As mentioned, if the weather or ground surface is too cold, asphalt mix loses its heat too quickly and cannot properly stabilize or cure. If your asphalt paving design calls for a thin layer of asphalt, it will lose heat even faster, making ground and ambient temperatures vital to the overall success of your project.

Are you looking for a qualified commercial asphalt paving company in your area? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a licensed contractor about commercial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

You Might Also Read:

Can Asphalt Be Paved in the Rain?
Why is My Asphalt Deteriorating?
The Quickest Ways to Improve the Look of Asphalt