What You Need to Know About Using Salt on Pavement

There are many misconceptions about using salt and de-icers on pavement. With so many contradicting notions, it can be difficult figuring out whether or not you should salt your asphalt and concrete pavements. And with the current Indianapolis snow forecast, now is the time to clear up any confusion or concerns you’ve had about salting your paved surfaces.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about using salt on asphalt and concrete this winter season.

Commercial Paving 317-549-1833
Commercial Paving 317-549-1833

Rock salt provides an impactful benefit when it comes to creating safer, more stable road and walkways. However, in order to reap the benefits of salt, it is important to know which types of pavements to use it on, and how to be environmentally conscientious while doing so. Here are the top 4 facts you need to know to ensure you protect your pavements and the surrounding ecosystem:

➠ Salt Can Harm the Environment

It is important to apply salt properly and with the utmost care and attention. Otherwise, it can negatively affect the surrounding environment via water runoff. It can also be toxic to local plants and wildlife. In fact, certain studies have identified an increase in salinity within rivers, lakes, and even drinking water, as a direct result of roadway salting practices.

➠ Salt Will Damage Concrete

Concrete is a porous pavement, which means it has pores that can collect moisture and water. This makes them more vulnerable to freeze-thaw cycles and other intruding constituents. Roadway salts are common culprits behind concrete deterioration because they are acidic and breakdown the adhesive bonds that hold concrete together. As a result, concrete freezes more quickly, thus requiring more salting. Overtime, concrete is damaged if ongoing maintenance is not implemented after every season.

➠ Salt Will Not Damage Asphalt

In contrast to concrete pavements, snow salt will not harm your asphalt surfaces. Hot-mix asphalt pavements are made from stone aggregate, sand, petroleum, and other sturdy constituents, so they will not be affected by salts, de-icers, and freeze-thaw cycles. So if you want to use salt on your asphalt, go right ahead! Just be sure to maintain a clear and controlled boundary to prevent water run-off and environmental damage.

➠ Salt Does Not Create Potholes

Although salt can deteriorate concrete, it does not create potholes. Water must enter into the ground below the pavement to create a pothole. As for salt, it weakens concrete, and can even lead to cracking, crumbling, and fissures; however, those frustrating giant craters are thanks to changing weather, vehicular traffic, and lack of proper pavement maintenance. When it comes to asphalt, salt can only cause deterioration or damage if the pavement is already damaged or compromised.

Indianapolis Pavement Repair and Maintenance

Indianapolis Winter Asphalt Patching 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Winter Asphalt Patching 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and municipal paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, winter cold patching, and more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.

How to Clean Moldy Concrete

Many people do not think about mold and mildew growing on foundations made from concrete or cement; however, if the conditions are just right, this type of growth can occur. Not only can mold, mildew, and fungus grow within the pores and on the surfaces of concrete foundations, staining is a probable result as well.

Mold and mildew can cause health problems, respiratory complications, and slippery surfaces. This can be dangerous to residents, guests, customers, visitors, and all other persons inhabiting the infected area. These reasons and more are why mold removal for concrete is so vital. Getting rid of mold growth encourages a healthier environment and a more durable foundation.

Continue reading to learn more about mold growth, including how to effectively eliminate it from concrete sidewalks, driveways, and more!

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

What Causes Mold?

Mold, mildew, and fungus grow in the presence of two principle variables: moisture and a food source. In most cases, these food sources are dirt and dust. Concrete is not capable of fungal growth on its own, but in the perfect conditions of humidity, moisture, and a present food source, mold can quickly grow and thrive for quite some time.

Prolonged weather conditions, water leaks, flooding, and poor insulation can create an environment for concrete mold growth. The combination of moisture and humidity, along with a viable food source, is the perfect formula to house mold and mildew.

Also, concrete is a porous pavement, meaning it has several pores and channels running within it. These pores and microscopic crevices are perfect incubators for fungal growth too. So as mentioned before, given the right conditions, mold can easily grow within and on concrete.

Some conditions are created on a temporary basis, like humid and wet weather mixed with dirt and dust, while others may be an interior issue that requires some extensive renovation or repair.

Cleaning Moldy Concrete

Finding the root of mold growth is the first step in removing it. If the fungus is a result of a larger underlying problem like interior water leaks, then it is vital to correct this issue first, in order to acquire long term mold removal and control. Since concrete is very durable, removing mold is fairly simple and the process is quite easy. Once the mold is removed, it is helpful to keep concrete surfaces that are more susceptible to fungal growth, clean and dust-free.

Here’s how to combat mold and mildew on concrete foundations:

⇒ Purchase an OTC Fungicide or Mold-Killing Detergent

These products can be purchased at any local hardware or home improvement center. You may even find them at your local grocer or superstore. Be sure to choose a higher-end product for optimal results. For a homemade solution, simply mix household bleach and water together, using equal parts.

⇒ Allow the Solution to Set in For Some Time

Apply the solution liberally to the infected areas and allow it to sit for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the extent of fungal growth. The next step involves scrubbing, but should then be followed with a second application, setting, and scrubbing once again.

⇒ Use Elbow-Grease to Scrub the Fungus Away

It really takes a lot of scrubbing and elbow grease to scrub the mold away. This job is great for the man of the house. Once the solution is applied liberally to the infected areas, use abundant force to scrub and rub away the fungal growth and stains. Rinse the area thoroughly, and repeat the last two steps until you achieve desirable results.

When You Need Concrete Replacement

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and industrial paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, and more. Request a free estimate, today!

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

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

5 Qualities To Look For in a Paving Contractor

Pavement repair is an important investment to make for your property, so it is necessary for it to be done right. The primary key to all good paving work is installation. Without proper installation and craftsmanship, your pavement does not stand a chance against weather, wear, tear, and time. So you see, all good paving work starts with hiring the right contractor.

Continue reading to learn which qualities you should be looking for in a paving contractor in order to ensure trusted, long-lasting results for your pavement.

Commercial Paving 317-549-1833

Indianapolis Commercial Paving 317-549-1833

License

The first quality you should be looking for in a qualified paving contractor is licensing. The state departments for licensing and regulation of paving contractors issues licensing numbers that your contractor should be able to provide. You can use this number to look up their license status online. (Our state licensing number is #C8081407)

Insurance

The second important quality to look for in a paving professional is insurance coverage. This is for your own protection. Be sure a paving contractor can provide proof of their official certificate for general liability and workers compensation insurance. Insurance coverage is also an indication that you are working with a professional company.

References

Another important quality to look for in a paving professional is their company reputation among past clientele. You can do this by directly asking the paving contractor for references, or you can look up customer reviews and testimonials online on popular sites like Yelp and Angie’s List. A good contractor is always eager to provide references because they are confident and proud of their work.

Written Contract

Before allowing any work to be done on your property, it is vital that you have, in your possession, a comprehensive written contract detailing all of the agreed upon work, materials, payment terms, and estimated completion date. Always be sure your paving professionals incorporate written contracts in their standard business practices to protect yourself and your investment.

No Full Payment Upfront

In most states, the law does not allow contractors to require all payments in full before the work has begun. In fact, such laws do not allow contractors to accept more than one-third of the total contract price, upfront. If a paving contractor mandates that all costs need to be paid in full upfront before they get started on the project, it is not a good business practice.

Professional Pavement Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial paving services in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide a wide range of pavement repair and installation services at the most competitive prices in town. Request a free estimate, today.

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

How to Modify a Parking Lot to Promote Pedestrian Safety

As a real estate owner, your parking lot says a lot about your commitment to customer and employee safety. When it is in great condition, not only do vehicles run smoother and experience less damage, pedestrians are well-guided and protected, thus supporting a safe premises for both staff and guests. However, when you neglect the maintenance needs of a parking lot, whether asphalt or concrete, you can expect a heap of structural problems that may create an unsafe environment.

Continue reading to learn which areas of your parking lot can be improved to promote pedestrian safety, as well as, who to call for trusted pavement repair near you.

Indianapolis Parking Lot Repair

Indianapolis Parking Lot Repair 317-549-1833

Common Causes of Parking Lot Damage

Whether concrete or asphalt, parking lots require ongoing maintenance. Overtime, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy traffic, inclement weather, biological growths, and more, can cause pavements to lose their strength and durability. By staying on top of pavement care, you can better prevent or delay such effects. Pavement maintenance can also be a very serious responsibility, and even an obligation, under tort law. You see, if someone is seriously injured on your property as a result of negligent parking lot care, you could be held financially liable for their economic and non-economic damages and losses.

Pavement Maintenance

When it comes to maintaining a safe premises, pavement maintenance is key. This means staying on top of routine care and minor repairs. There are several types of pavement damage that can lead to unsafe or hazardous conditions for people. Potholes, faded road marks, crumbling curbs, unleveled sidewalks, loose handrails, cracked ramps, and more, are all potentially dangerous defects of a parking that can cause someone to suffer an accident or injury.

Here are some key areas to focus on for pedestrian safety:

Line Striping – When parking lot road markings begin to fade, it can lead to serious accidents. This is especially true for pedestrian crosswalks, directional arrows, and other indicator-based markings. If there areas are not perfectly visible, both drivers and pedestrians can become confused on where (and where not) to go.

Handicap Spaces – Painted handicap parking spaces should be perfectly visible at all times. If they start to fade, drivers may not be aware that the spaces exists and occupy the spot, which may force handicap individuals to walk farther than they should, potentially putting them at risk of being hit by a car or slipping and falling.

ADA Ramps – ADA ramps are another important consideration, especially for disabled or handicapped individuals. Overtime, ramps can deteriorate, which can lead to crumbling aggregate, unleveled surfaces, holes, and more.

Water Drainage – Poor water drainage will cause a wide range of structural damages, such as potholes, but it can also lead to flooding, which can pose certain safety hazards for both drivers and pedestrians. A flooded parking lot is not safe to walk and it can block important emergency exits. For drivers, it can cause skidding and wipe-outs, which puts everyone at risk.

Potholes – Potholes and wide gaps in a parking lot can be quite hazardous to anyone on foot. These form as a result of freeze-thaw cycles, and worsen from lack of maintenance and surrounding environmental conditions. It is important to repair potholes as soon as they form to prevent accidents, as well as, worsening pavement conditions.

If your parking lot has any of the above defects, it is strongly encouraged to have them resolved before the heaviest part of winter is here. To get started, contact a licensed Indianapolis pavement repair company for a professional assessment and written quote.

Indianapolis Parking Lot Repair

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for parking lot paving services in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide a wide range of pavement repair and installation services at the most competitive prices in town. Request a free estimate, today.

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

What is Cold Mix Permanent Patching?

Permanent patching is a type of environmentally-friendly pavement repair that involves using a high performance cold patch asphalt mix. Continue reading to learn more about cold asphalt permanent pavement repair, including when and where it can be applied.

Indianapolis Pothole Repair 317-549-1833

Indianapolis Pothole Repair 317-549-1833

Cold Asphalt Permanent Patching Grades

Permanent patching material is most commonly used to fill potholes. It is very high performance, which allows it to be used all year long, in virtually all average outdoor temperatures. It comes in 3 different grades for each significant season we experience here in Indiana. There is a specially formulated winter grade for temperatures of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, a spring and fall grade for temperatures between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and a summer mix for temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Recommended Products:

Unique Paving Materials® (UPM) Permanent Pavement Material
✔ EZ Street® Cold Asphalt
✔ Aquaphalt® 6.0 Black Water-Based Asphalt and Concrete Patch

Advantages of Cold Asphalt Patching

Permanent patching cold asphalt mix comes with a wide variety of features that makes it a great option for year-round pothole remediation. Not only can it be used year round because it comes in 3 flexible grades, it is also an all-weather product that is suitable in both wet and dry conditions. Furthermore, cold asphalt mix is a permanent solution to potholes, which means it lasts substantially longer than all other pavement patching materials.

Best of all, installation is generally quick and simple. Permanent patching cold asphalt material is ready to use since it does not require any priming prior to application. Instead, a straight forward, 3 step process of pouring, scooping, and compressing is all that is required. Just be sure to leave permanent patching projects to the professionals! They have the proper training, tools, and resources to deliver outstanding results that last.

Indianapolis Winter Cold Patching

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to learn more about the winter road patching and pothole repair services we provide in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our licensed paving contractors offer a wide range of winter cold patching services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties, and all at the most competitive prices in town. Request a free estimate, today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Common Pavement Problems

As a real estate owner, the aesthetics of your property remain important to you, which is why it can be a frustrating experience watching your paved surfaces deteriorate or decline right, year after year. If you have been dealing with pavement problems long enough, then it is time to starting searching for solutions. Fortunately, our paving experts have provided a list of the most common inquiries we get pertaining to pavement performance issues and repair.

Continue reading to review this list, and learn what your options are for turning the condition of your pavement around.

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

Why is My Concrete Pavement Cracking?

Concrete is susceptible to a variety of elements and influences that can cause it to crack, buckle, crumble, and more. Most commonly, it is due to freeze thaw cycles and other harsh environmental conditions. Concrete also cracks when it is not properly mixed and cured.

Why Do I Have Potholes in My Parking Lot?

Potholes form as a result of annual freeze and thaw cycles. This cycle of freezing and thawing causes pavements to expand and contract, which results in deteriorated aggregate. As pavement aggregate worsens, it weakens, and begins to deteriorate further until a hole is formed on the surface. Foot and vehicular traffic are contributing factors to a growing pothole, as well as, inclement weather and other natural elements.

Why Do I Have So Many Puddles?

Parking lots can have a lot of puddles for a number of reasons, including sub-base issues and poor water drainage. But the most common culprit behind mass parking lot puddles is rutting and depressions. Poor compaction is generally the cause behind rutting and grade depression problems. During the pavement installation process, a roller is used to compact the asphalt. If improper technique, equipment, or roller size is used, poor compaction will result.

What Did the Sealcoat Peel Off My Asphalt?

The most common reason behind peeling sealcoat is a failure to bond. When asphalt surfaces contain oil spots, dirt, rust, and other contaminants, the sealcoat cannot properly bond to the asphalt. And when sealcoats are applied during seasons of cold weather, it can affect the outcome if the curing process takes place in freezing cold temperatures.

How Do I Remove Mold From Concrete?

Mold can be cleaned from concrete with a few simple steps. You can opt for an over-the-counter mold-killing detergent, or you can make your own solution with bleach and water. Either way, some thorough scrubbing action, followed by an extended soak-time and a rinse, can get the job done. Use a pressure washer to rinse the pavement clean for best results.

How Do I Remove Stains On My Pavement?

It depends on the type of stain. Rubber tire marks will come clean with a hard bristled broom and some rock salt. Grease stains will require some pressured water, dishwashing liquid, and a strong-bristled brush. For moss stains, combine distilled white vinegar and water, saturate the stains, allow everything to soak for 30 minutes, then scrub away with a hard bristled brush.

How Do I Make My Asphalt Look Better?

If your paved surface is old and faded, an overlay is a great investment. As long as the existing pavement is in good structural condition, a new layer of asphalt can be poured directly over it, rendering a fresh, brand-new paved surface. Not only are overlays efficient and cost-effective, they are long-lasting.

Who Can I Trust for Pavement Repair?

ACI Asphalt Concrete Inc. 317-549-1833
ACI Asphalt Concrete 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional pavement repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our team of licensed and insured paving contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. Request a free estimate, today.

3 Types of Pavement Cracks and How to Fix Them

Now is the time of year to make repairs and renovations to your paved lot. Not only does the weather permit such work, making the process more efficient and successful, it also prepares paved surfaces for the upcoming winter climates. Common winter expectations, like heavy precipitation, strong winds, and extreme temperatures, can all negatively impact asphalt and concrete pavements if they are not sufficiently protected.

One of the most frequently-made repairs this time of year are for surface cracks. There are three common types of surface cracks, all of which can occur to both asphalt and concrete pavements. Continue reading to learn how to identify, repair, and prevent such cracks on your property.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833
Block Cracks in Asphalt Pavement

The 3 Common Pavement Cracks:

Reflective

Reflective surface cracks occur when a crack or joint in the underlying pavement “reflects” upward through the surface. These types of cracks are primarily dealt with in resurfacing projects, but they can also appear in the form of “low-severity” cracks following new pavement installation. They are not a good sign since they reduce the overall lifespan of your asphalt or concrete overlay.

Block

Block cracks are easy to identify because they form in patterns of squares; the cracks intersect each other at nearly 90 degree angles. They are often found in parking lots, as they tend to happen as a result of not having enough traffic. You see, steady, consistent traffic on pavement helps to knead it and keep it flexible, making it more resistant to crack formation. Other reasons why block cracks form is due to low-penetration asphalt, excessive air voids, overly high plant mix temperatures, and more.

Edge

Edge cracks are just that; cracks that form around the edges of pavement, usually along curbs, sidewalks, medians, and drainage ditches. They are identified accurately by measuring their location; if they are parallel to and within 18 inches of the edge of the asphalt or concrete, they are considered edge cracks. The most common causes are insufficient base construction, inadequate shoulder support, poor drainage, and frost effects.

Resolve Pavement Cracks ASAP

It is important to catch and resolve pavement cracks early on, before they can spread and lead to larger structural problems. The best way to do so is to hire a licensed and insured Indianapolis paving company for help creating the best pavement repair and maintenance plan for your property. Depending on the extent of damage to your lot, you may require crack-filling, crack routing or widening, pavement resurfacing, re-striping, curb repair, ADA ramp repair, and more. To protect your lot from future damages, be sure to discuss sealcoating options with your trusted paving contractor.

Get Started With a Free Quote

ACI Asphalt Concrete Inc. 317-549-1833
ACI Asphalt Concrete 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, and more. Request a free estimate, today!

ACI Asphalt & Concrete Offers Workable Solutions for Your Commercial Paving Problems!

Parking Lot Paving
Parking Lot Paving 317-549-1833

ACI Asphalt & Concrete is the number one choice for commercial pavers in Indianapolis, Indiana! This is largely due to the fact that our professional road construction specialists are highly trained and extensively experienced in the asphalt and concrete paving industry. Furthermore, in combination with an immense staff of licensed, bonded, and insured paving contractors, we retain the latest technologies, innovative materials, and state of the art tools, allowing us to achieve the highest standards of excellence on every job.

These reasons and more are why our team of expert pavers are successfully completing asphalt and concrete projects for commercial and industrial properties, every day!

Our Company Offers the Most Competitive Rates for Asphalt and Concrete Paving Work!

ACI Asphalt & Concrete offers a wide range of professional-grade paving services, including asphalt and concrete work, curb repair, sidewalk repair, block paving, road striping, milling and overlaying, seal coating, removal and replacements, and much more. Take a closer look at some of the top paving services we offer for Indiana commercial and industrial properties:

Asphalt Repair
Asphalt Repaving
Sealcoating
Parking Lots
Potholes / Chuck Holes
Speed Bumps
Crack Repair
Striping
Walking Paths
Asphalt Milling
Excavation
Demolition
Parking Blocks
Concrete Repair
Concrete Replacement
Sidewalks
Curbs
Steps
Concrete Grinding
ADA Ramps
Storm Drains
Dumpster Pads
Ballard Post
Demolition / Removal
Drainage Pipes
Hand Rails

Why Choose Us?

ACI Asphalt & Concrete is licensed, bonded, and insured, with more than three decades of hands-on experience in the paving industry. We are also active members of the Better Business Bureau, Indiana Manufactured Housing Association, Community Association Institute, and the Apartment Association of Indiana. As a locally owned and operated company here in Indianapolis, we are dedicated to supporting our communities with reputable and friendly paving service at economy-based prices.

AND THAT’S NOT ALL!

Request More Information Today!

ACI Asphalt Concrete Inc. 317-549-1833
ACI Asphalt Concrete 317-549-1833

Here at ACI, we are truly dedicated to proving superior paving services for the local municipalities in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. In fact, we are truly honored to be members of the local community, and strive to be your affordable solution for professional, high-quality municipal pavement repair and service. Contact us at 317-549-1833 to learn more about our asphalt and concrete paving services, today.

Why is My Asphalt Deteriorating?

Have you taken a close look at your asphalt pavement lately? If it is beginning to show signs of deterioration, there is usually a good reason why. Fortunately, asphalt is a material that is easy to work with and repair. So if your asphalt lot has seen better days, a quick makeover is no problem.

Continue reading to learn your options for asphalt repair, as well as, some common reasons why asphalt deteriorates.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833
Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

What Causes Asphalt to Deteriorate?

Learning what causes asphalt to deteriorate is important so that you can better protect your newly-restored pavement and increase its lifespan. Although some things cannot be controlled or avoided, there are many others that can. Here are the primary reasons why asphalt pavement will breakdown:

Poor Quality Installation

The most common reason why a relatively new asphalt paved surface begins to deteriorate is due to poor installation. Inexperienced or unethical contractors may render a poor quality job as a result of cutting corners, old equipment, a lack of resources, poor quality materials, and shoddy workmanship. For this reason, the best decision you can make for your premises is hiring an experienced and licensed Indianapolis asphalt paving company that can provide professional repairs and services that stand the test of time. When asphalt is laid properly, it can last decades.

Poor Water Drainage

Another reason why asphalt will begin to corrode sooner than it should is poor water drainage. This is usually a result of poor quality work, as mentioned above. When a lot cannot sufficiently drain standing water from its surface, the water will penetrate the asphalt and cause the liquid asphalt binder to lose its resistance to water, which can lead to compaction problems and more. Once colder temperatures come around, the freeze-thaw cycles will begin, causing the water to expand cracks and produce pot holes.

Foot and Vehicle Traffic

If your lot experiences a lot of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, it is more likely to show signs of deterioration soon than a vacant lot would. The impact and weight of cars, trucks, vans, and more, will cause the pavement surface to form cracks that will eventually expand and crumble overtime. Stains from chemicals, grease, and dirt will also impact asphalt. Discoloration and fading may occur from sunlight exposure, which can dry out liquid binders, allowing for water penetration.

Natural Elements

As mentioned, some things are out of your control, for the most part. Overtime, natural elements like wind, rain, snow, and ice, will cause pavement to deteriorate. This is what we call “natural wear and tear.” And although these elements are not controllable, you can protect your asphalt and extend its life with a quality sealcoat. Just be sure it is applied by a licensed and insured asphalt paver.

Who to Call For Experienced Asphalt Paving

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional asphalt paving and seal coating in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our team of licensed and insured pavers provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. We serve all of Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Request a free estimate, today.