How to Improve the Appearance of Your Asphalt Pavements

Posted on September 21, 2022 by admin

Your asphalt pavement is important to you. It was a significant investment intended to increase property value, safety, and curb appeal. So, it is no surprise that you are interested in learning ways to enhance the appearance so that it looks the way it did the day it was installed. Whether you have an asphalt driveway or parking lot, the options for making it look better remain fairly the same.

Continue reading to learn how you can make your asphalt pavement look like new again.

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Asphalt Overlays

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, but they are also long-lasting. If your paved surface is not structurally sound, you can get the same results by removing the old pavement and repaving the entire surface with new asphalt. These two options are the most invasive and significant investments, but they are worth the overall value you receive long term.

Do-It-Yourself Tips

If you are not interested in a pavement renovation, you can still benefit by implementing some do-it-yourself strategies to keep your lot or drive looking great. First, routine debris removal is important. This involves picking up trash and litter on a daily basis. It also involves prompt leaf and snow removal every season. Not only does this prevent unsightly stains, corrosion, and hazards, it makes the lot look clean and fresh. If you have a large lot or complex, it is wise to invest in a street sweeping machine to make this chore more efficient.

Preventative Maintenance and Repairs

Whether you choose to overlay your existing pavement, demo and repave your asphalt, or implement DIY strategies, preventative maintenance and fixing minor damages is a must. Catching small problems early on can save you money and maintain strong pavement. This includes crack filling, pothole repair, line striping and painting, grade repairs, drainage adjustments, and more. You must always be maintaining your paved surfaces, regardless of condition or square footage.

Sealcoating

Every paved asphalt surface should have a protective coating. Asphalt needs to be seal coated every 3 to 5 years, especially in regions that are hot and dry most of the year. This thin, clear protective layer shields harmful sunrays, which prevents it from prematurely fading, cracking, and more. It also creates a waterproof barrier that prevents corrosion, crumbling, heaving, and more.

Are you ready to improve the look of your commercial asphalt parking lot and pavements? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for parking lot paving and commercial road construction in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

Economic Facts About Asphalt

Posted on July 21, 2022 by admin

Asphalt pavement has a lot to offer us in terms of engineering, economics, and more. Learn some admirable facts about asphalt that will help you choose the right paving material for your development or property. From parking lots and industrial complexes, to driveways, sidewalks, and more, asphalt pavement is a top choice for virtually all paved surfaces.

Continue reading to learn some important facts about asphalt engineering and economics, plus where to get superior commercial pavement services in Central Indiana.

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Asphalt Production Basics

Also referred to as bitumen, asphalt is primarily comprised of stone aggregate material, sand, and various additives, but also contains a binding material. The most common binding material used in asphalt pavement is called liquid asphalt. It is a sticky black substance that holds the aggregate and solid materials together. These materials combined render asphalt pavement durable, flexible, and long-lasting. These reasons and more make it the most popular choice for residential and commercial paved surfaces.

What You Should Know About Asphalt Engineering

Traveling on smooth asphalt provides more tire traction because tire contact is maximized.

Smooth pavement lowers fuel consumption and increases gas mileage.

Truck tires won’t bounce on smooth pavements.

Smoother pavements last longer.

A Swedish study revealed that smoother roads can save up to 10% in fuel costs. Review the study, here.

Routine asphalt maintenance is simple and consists of milling for recycled product and placing a new overlay every 15 to 20 years.

Asphalt delivers an infinity of smooth and quiet pavement because it lacks joints.

European and American research has found that quiet asphalt reduces highway noise by 3 to 5 dB(A) or more.

Economic Considerations for Asphalt

Asphalt overlays are one of the most cost-effective methods for resurfacing old concrete.

Studies have proven that asphalt pavements exhibit higher endurance and perform better over a 40 year period.

Asphalt materials are one of the world’s greatest renewable resources.

Out of the 2.27 million miles of paved roads in the United States, 94% is paved with asphalt, including 65% of the country’s interstate system.

Asphalt will render the best return on investment compared to all other paving materials.

Daytime commuters are saved from traffic blocks and long delays since asphalt can be laid at night.

The roadway system in the United States is estimated to have a value higher than $2.4 trillion.

Asphalt recycling saves American taxpayers over $1.5 billion every year.

Commercial Asphalt Paving and Road Construction

If you are interested in repaving your commercial or industrial complex with asphalt, contact an experiencing Indianapolis commercial paving company that has been in business for several years in your area. This is an indication that they are true professionals with a good reputation and a local backing. There are too many fly-by-the-night pavers out there that will take advantage of business owners and deliver low quality results that do not last. If you want your pavement to be strong, start with proper emulsion and installation. A reputable commercial asphalt company can provide this for you.

Would you rather skip the hassle of searching endlessly for the right Indianapolis paving company? Do thousands of Hoosiers have done and contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for trusted commercial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are licensed, bonded, and insured to deliver the highest level of service at the most competitive prices in central Indiana.

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

Posted on June 24, 2022 by admin

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.

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Top 3 Reasons Why is Asphalt More Popular Than Concrete

Posted on June 16, 2022 by admin

In modern construction, asphalt is one of the most fundamentally used materials for paving driveways, roads, parking lots, sidewalks, and more. It’s commonly used in place of concrete by contractors and property owners for a variety of reasons. Asphalt has several desirable features and qualities that makes it a better for many industrial and commercial paving projects.

Continue reading to learn the top three reasons why asphalt pavement is commonly preferred over concrete, plus how to get started with an estimate for asphalt paving in Central Indiana.

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The Benefits of Asphalt are Ample

Although asphalt is a preferred form of paving, this doesn’t mean that concrete has no benefits or advantages. Depending on the project, one material may be better suited than the other; however, many paving project managers are using asphalt instead of concrete these days. Below are some of the most talked about advantages of using asphalt over concrete for commercial and industrial paving projects.

Low Initial Costs

Concrete, in the long run, costs less than asphalt pavement; however, the initial cost of installing asphalt is cheaper than concrete paving projects. This means it’s more economical than concrete as well. The only downfall to the initial cost affordable is that long-term maintenance care for asphalt is sometimes disregarded.

Time Efficiency

One of the most attractive features to asphalt is that it is more time efficient than concrete paving projects. Not only is it time effective, it’s also easy to apply and dries quicker than concrete. This means asphalt is the perfect approach for minor pavement repairs, such as potholes, cracks, and more. When it comes to paving projects or repair, saving time saves money on both ends.

Durability

There is a big difference between asphalt and concrete when it comes to durability, strength, and resilience. Concrete is more susceptible to damage and cracks much easier, making it much more prone to wear and tear, than asphalt paving. This means concrete also requires more maintenance and sealing then asphalt pavement does. Asphalt is also more weather resistant than concrete. It is resistant to normal or extreme climate changes, as well as harsh weather conditions and much more.

These reasons are just the start to why so many consumers choose asphalt for industrial or commercial pavement applications. It is highly recommended to consult your local Indianapolis commercial paving company for accurate and reliable information.

Are you looking for a trusted 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.

Why Asphalt Repairs are So Necessary

Posted on May 20, 2022 by admin

When your commercial pavements are in dire need of multiple asphalt repairs, it is important to make them a priority. This is especially true for newly-laid asphalt pavements and surfaces. External conditions, like inclement weather, water, high temperatures, extreme cold, chemicals, and natural wear and tear, will all take a toll on your asphalt pavements. And the more repairs they are in need of, the more vulnerable the pavement is, which can cost you a lot of money in the long run.

Continue reading to learn why asphalt repairs are so necessary to perform for your commercial lot, plus who to trust in Central Indiana for superior commercial paving and road work.

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The Importance of Asphalt Repair

Why is it so important to repair asphalt? Ultimately, your bottom line depends on it. And although there are several other reasons, they too seem to all involve your business’s overall profits. Not only is it important to stay current on all asphalt repairs for optimal curb appeal, which does impact your property’s resale and investment value, but it is also important for the sake of your potential and current clientele.

Curb appeal plays a large part in attracting new customers, as well as retaining existing ones. Maintaining a clean and well behaved asphalt lot speaks to your businesses. Overall character and culture, which can be comforting to your market. Furthermore, vehicular traffic is less impacted in a negative way by asphalt defects and repair needs. Pedestrians and drivers are safer on a properly paved and maintained asphalt lot.

Premises Liability

Another important reason why asphalt repair is quite necessary is liability protection. The law requires property owners to maintain a safe premises that is free of any foreseeable, preventable hazards. This legal requirement is upheld by Premises Liability Law, which can be enforced upon any property owner who is negligent in maintaining a safe and well-preserved premises. In fact, many insurance providers perform an annual, on-site inspection to ensure a parking lot is free of hazards. If the parking lot is not in an acceptable condition, they may not renew the policy until all repairs are made.

Top Asphalt Repairs to Focus On

Unless your asphalt lot requires full-on demolition and re-installment or a less-invasive asphalt overlay, there are certain types of asphalt repairs to put at the top of your parking lot maintenance list. These include crumbling pavement, asphalt cracks, heaving, depressions, fading line striping, faded traffic marking, poor water drainage, crumbling bollards, and potholes. It is also important to seal your asphalt lot every 3 to 5 years with a quality sealcoating product.

Asphalt Sealing

Sealcoating is a vital addition to your pavement maintenance plan, as it provides protection against some of the most damaging outdoor hazards and elements, including freeze thaw cycles, ice, snow, heavy storms, water runoff, oxidation (rust), oil drippings, gasoline, and other chemical spills, and even the harsh UV rays of the sun. Without a proper sealcoat, your pavements are subjected to these inclement conditions all year, which causes premature aging, color fading, surface defects, and much more.

Are you ready to schedule your Spring commercial asphalt repair work in Central Indiana? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for skilled asphalt paving and sealcoating in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients.

Should I Be Worried About Standing Water on My Asphalt Lot?

Posted on December 15, 2021 by admin

There are many good reasons why most lots and parking areas are paved with asphalt. It is a low-maintenance, cost-effective, and easy-to-install paving material that performs well for many years. But even though asphalt retains many valuable qualities, it can still be prone to damage, especially when it comes to water. If your asphalt lots have water runoff or drainage issues, namely standing water, you need some professional intervention as soon as possible.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about asphalt water damages and repair solutions, plus who to call in Central Indiana for superior commercial paving construction you can trust.

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Asphalt Water Drainage Problems

A few puddles of water here and there after a rain or storm is nothing to worry about. But if your lots are consistently filled with large pools of standing water or puddles, then you may want to have a pavement inspection scheduled soon. Water is enemy number one to all pavements, including asphalt. In excess, it can speed up the rate of deterioration.

Standing water can do massive amounts of damage to asphalt, including premature cracking, pavement mark fading, potholes, crevices, crumbling pavement, heaving, pavement depressions, and more. In addition to pavement damages, which can waste away your business profits and reduce your company’s overall success, but it can also pose several safety hazards to drivers and pedestrians.

Asphalt Hazards and Property Owner Liability

If your commercial lots and walking areas are not properly maintained, and as a result, someone is injured, you could take on the financial liability for their damages and losses if they choose to pursue legal action through a tort claim. Pavement damages caused by standing water can also cause car accidents, pedestrian accidents, and automotive damage.

The Importance of Using a Quality Asphalt Sealer

Asphalt does have some natural water-resistant properties, but it is not entirely withstanding to the power of moisture, freeze-thaw cycling, and vehicular traffic. One of the most effective and strongly-encouraged services to outsource for asphalt pavements is sealcoating. Asphalt sealers protect pavements from water permeation and damage. Have your asphalt lots sealed by a trusted Indiana commercial paving company to ensure long-lasting protection. Have them resealed every 3 to 5 years, or as recommended by your paving contractors.

Develop a Pavement Water Runoff Plan

Another effective solution to standing water problems on asphalt is to implement a dependable water runoff and water drainage plan for your lot. Your trusted paving contractor can help you devise the best system for mitigation water accumulation on your lot. They can come up with a reliable system to divert water away from your asphalt pavement and keep it draining properly all year long.

Are you dealing with water accumulation issues with your commercial asphalt pavements? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional commercial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also provide sealcoating services.

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Most Common Asphalt Issues

To gauge the condition of your commercial or municipal asphalt pavement, simply look out for 4 tell-tale signs that suggest some attention is needed. This will ensure your investment is protected and your pavement remains a valuable asset to your property.

Asphalt Fading

One of the more noticeable signs that asphalt pavement needs some work is discoloration and fading. When the lustrous dark, rich color of asphalt as turned into a wimpy, dull gray, it is time for a new seal coat. Fortunately, this is a minor renovation that can be completed in as little as one day. It does not require any excavation or use of heavy machinery. Seal coating is important for pavement because it adds an extra layer of protection against the elements, traffic, and other sources of damage. It also makes asphalt pavement easier to clean and look great.

Large Crack Formation

Cracks are no good to have in pavement. Cracks lead to more cracks, and exponential damage after that. For this reason, it is important to keep an eye out for large cracks in your asphalt driveway or parking lot. Any crack larger than 1/4^th of an inch should be treated right away. This includes cleaning, filling, and sealing all crackers larger than a quarter inch. This will prevent water from seeping into the pavement and jeopardizing the sub-grade.

Potholes

Potholes stand out, so you don’t have to go looking for them. But you do need to have them repaired for the sake of liability, as well as your investment and property value. If your asphalt has many potholes and large cracks, it might be time for a complete repaving project. If there is just one or two potholes, you can have them cleaned, filled, and sealed just like you would large asphalt cracks.

Excessive Staining or Discoloration

If your asphalt is excessively stained from oil, grease, dirt, trash, and leaves, it is time for some work to be done. Fortunately, asphalt surface stain removal is an easy DIY job. Start with routine sweeping to prevent more staining from occurring, and then use quality OTC asphalt pavement cleaners and a power washer to clear away oil and debris stains. For larger pavements, rent a street sweeper.

How does your asphalt pavement look right now? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial asphalt maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the central parts of the state. Request a bid, today.

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Price Comparison of Asphalt and Concrete

Posted on September 22, 2021 by admin

The most common and widely used materials for paving roads, sidewalks, street ways, and more are concrete and asphalt. When you are planning an upcoming paving project, you might be wondering which material is the more economical choice in terms of price.

Continue reading for a brief discussion of the price comparisons of asphalt and concrete, and who call for trusted commercial paving service in Central Indiana.

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Asphalt Versus Concrete

With proper installation and routine maintenance, both asphalt and concrete can last for several years. So, the paving material that you ultimately choose will depend on several factors, including your budget, particular paving application, regional climate, location, intended use, and much more. It is important to speak with a licensed and experienced Indianapolis Indiana paving contractor who can help you understand the best options for your pavement installation or repair project.

When you are focusing solely on budget, the cost of asphalt versus concrete may play an important role in your final decision. Both materials may pose both advantages and disadvantages depending on your paving needs.

Asphalt Cost

In the paving industry, asphalt is one of the most economical choices because it is a very inexpensive material. For this reason, you often see roads and driveways paved with asphalt. In comparison, concrete is typically more expensive and requires a higher level of routine maintenance.

You can expect asphalt cost anywhere between $1 and $5 per square foot installed, while concrete has the average cost of $3 to $10 per square foot.

These prices depend on several factors, of course, and will vary depending on retailer, grade, quality, and volume. One of the most determining factors will be the size of your paved lot. The larger the lot, the more money it will cost to install, regardless of paving material.

Comparing the Two

It is difficult to compare the cost without first identifying all of the factors unique to your paving project and/or needs. As a general consensus within the industry, it is suggested that asphalt is typically cheaper, but only initially.

Over time, asphalt will require some routine maintenance, such as seal coating, or minor repairs, which can add to the annual cost of paved asphalt. You can expect paved asphalt to last anywhere between 10 and 30 years, while most concrete paved surfaces last between 20 to 60 years.

Are you interested in learning more about your Indiana commercial paving project or pavement repair needs? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a seasoned commercial paving contractor in Indianapolis, Indiana today. We specialize in both asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial clients.

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FAQS About Chip Seal and Asphalt Paving

Posted on July 14, 2021 by admin

Deciding between chip seal and asphalt paving in Indianapolis is not an easy decision unless you have educated yourself on the fundamentals of both pavement protection methods. If you are wondering how chip seal compares to asphalt paving, it might help to review some frequently asked questions about both materials.

Continue below to review some FAQs about chip seal and asphalt paving, including who to trust for superior commercial and industrial pavement construction in Indianapolis Indiana.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know Which Paving Material Is Right for My Property?

It is important to consult with a professional Indianapolis paving contractor so they may assess your property and determine which paving material is best for your paving applications. Such factors they will consider include your soil conditions, the property location, regional climate, land grade, average traffic patterns, and water drainage.

What is Chip Sealing? What is Asphalt?

Many people are confused about the differences between chip seal and asphalt paving because the material others are quite similar. Chip seal, also known as tar and check pavement, retains many of the same properties as hot liquid asphalt.

However, the primary difference between the two types of paving materials is their application compatibility. In simplest terms, conventional asphalt mix is poured and spread onto a base of aggregate while still hot, and then compacted or rolled down into a solid, unified surface.

Similarly, chip sealing also involves the use of hot liquid asphalt, however the hot asphalt is sprayed onto a base of aggregate rather than poured and dispersed. Then, chips are added to the surface of the asphalt mix while it is still warm, and then compacted into a cured state.

Which is Better for My Paving Application?

If you were to drive over pavement constructed with asphalt, and the pavement constructive chip seal, you probably would notice a difference. However, when you need asphalt paving, it is important to learn which type of asphalt paving method is better for your application. For instance, chip sealing is often reserved for covering existing asphalt with minor damages like cracks and small potholes. Hot asphalt paving is generally reserved for new pavement installations and invasive or comprehensive repairs.

How Does Chip Sealing and Asphalt Paving Compare in Terms of Durability?

Asphalt is a thicker, denser material, and therefore, able to withstand natural wear and tear at a much higher level of resistance. Chip sealing is applied over existing pavement to fill in cracks and small holes, thus rendering a smooth, refined surface. Because chip seal is spray-applied in thin layers, it is not as durable and long-lasting as hot mix asphalt pavement. The general rule of thumb in terms of lifespan for asphalt is years, while chip seal is said to require reapplication after 7 to 15 years.

How Much Does Chip Seal Cost Compared to Conventional Asphalt?

As mentioned, chip seal does not last as long as traditional asphalt because it is applied in a thinner coat. Therefore, chip seal needs to be reapplied every 7 to 15 years, depending on relevant external factors and regional elements. For these reasons, chip seal needs to be reapplied two or three times before traditional asphalt would require a repair or overlay. This means that, although chip seal is cheaper, because you pay for multiple chip sealing jobs within the same time you would pay for one asphalt job, the costs are quite similar.

Does your commercial property or parking lot have some potholes that need patched up or repaved? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pothole repair and asphalt paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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The Best Temperatures For Paving Asphalt

Posted on March 24, 2021 by admin

No matter what kind of asphalt paving job is on the docket for the day, all professional pavement contractors know to consider the most important elements of such work, most importantly, temperatures. In addition to the outdoor climate, ground temperatures, ambient temperatures, and mix temp are all critical factors that impact the overall results of an asphalt paving or patching project.

Continue below to learn more about the best temperatures for asphalt pavement work.

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Timing and Temperature Control for Asphalt Paving

Ambient, ground, and mix temperatures must all be well-monitored and managed, but there is more temperature control that comes into play after asphalt is poured. Contractors have to move very quickly to compact the mixture and smooth it all out before it can begin to cool, or cure. If asphalt mix cools to fast, there is no way to ensure full compaction, which leads to several pavement defects and extensive deterioration down the line. This is why proper asphalt installation is so vital.

Asphalt Mixture

The temperature of the asphalt mixture is a critical part of a successful pavement job. The most commonly used material is hot asphalt mix, which arrives on site at extreme temperature levels; usually between 275 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit. In order to lay the asphalt mixture initially, it must cool down to at least 290 degrees Fahrenheit, but as cool as 220 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything lower than 190 degrees Fahrenheit can cause the asphalt mix to cool to quickly, and therefore lead to poor compaction and unstable performance. Variables that impact the thickness and cure time include ground temperature, wind speed, and ambient temperature.

Ambient Temperature

Ambient temperature is the temperature of the air. For any type of pavement installation work, ambient temperatures should be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and in the best case scenario, climbing as the day progresses. Because wind speed can also impact how quickly asphalt mix cools, which can ultimately lead to a bad paving job, the ambient temperature for asphalt work ideally should be higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit on exceptionally windy days.

Ground Temperature

The temperature of the ground, both at the surface and below, are important factors to consider before laying asphalt. If the ground is to cold, proper installation may not be possible. If the ground is too hot, the asphalt mixture might not cool fast enough. Generally, the ideal ground temperature for asphalt work should be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit and climbing. The ground is usually cooler in the morning, so the temperature should rise throughout the day from 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

How are your commercial pavements looking this year? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial asphalt maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout Central Indiana. Request a bid, today.

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