Tag Archives: asphalt sealcoating

What Makes Asphalt a Good Paving Material?

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Asphalt is a popular paving material because it is a good paving material. Its various attributes make it effective, and its quality makes it a first-choice for many building and construction applications. Asphalt delivers several benefits in terms of function, longevity, durability, maintenance, and cost-savings, which is why it is the most commonly-used material for paving roads, streets, interstates, highways, parking lots, driveways, and much more. Continue reading to learn more about the advantages of asphalt and why it’s used in so many industries.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Performance and Longevity

Asphalt is a composite material made up of a combination of aggregates, binders, and other additives. It is strong and durable, so it can withstand inclement weather, harsh chemicals, and heavy traffic. It is also water-resistant, which reduces cracking and other freeze-thaw related surface damages. Because asphalt is strong, durable, and resistant to wear and tear, it lasts for years. Not only does this reduce the need for repairs and replacements, it makes the maintenance load much lighter.

Installation and Maintenance

Asphalt is flexible, making it easy to work with. And since it is strong and durable, very little maintenance is needed to keep it in good condition. A quality seal coat, routine sweeping, and prompt crack repairs are the most important parts of asphalt maintenance. Also, the groundwork and foundation preparation work for asphalt is much easier than its outdated alternatives. This reduces labor time, thus reducing installation costs.

Cost

The attributes of asphalt make it a cost-effective material for various paving projects. Although a notable upfront cost, asphalt saves money in the long run. Reduced repairs and installation times combined with all the added conveniences of asphalt make up for the initial investment. Just keep in mind that it will likely need re-seal-coating every 3 to 5 years. This will also keep maintenance low, repairs at bay, and protect your investment.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving

Asphalt & Concrete Service 317-549-1833

Asphalt & Concrete Service 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for asphalt repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lindsey Lewis, and his team of professional pavers, are licensed, bonded, and insured, and have more than 30 years of experience in the paving industry. We offer commercial, industrial, and municipal asphalt paving services at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-549-1833 to request an estimate for Indianapolis asphalt paving, today.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sealcoat

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Sealcoating is an important part of asphalt installation and maintenance. Just like any asset, asphalt requires some protection and routine care to preserve its value. When it comes to choosing a sealcoat for your asphalt pavement, it is important to recognize a few factors that one should consider before making any final purchases.

Continue reading to review some common factors to consider before choosing a sealcoat for your pavement.

Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833 Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833

How to Extend the Life of Your Pavement

Sealcoats serve multiple purposes for asphalt pavements, primarily for protective and aesthetic reasons. They provide a protective coating on asphalt pavement, preserving its fresh black luster and preventing imperfections on its surface. It is applied by either brush or spray to seal out moisture and prevent cracking, potholes, and other general pavement damages. They are meant to last anywhere between two and four years, depending on the rate of natural wear and tear. They are best known for the uniform black appearance they give pavement, as well as, the degree of protection against moisture. This protection against moisture is the key to preventing cracking, crumbling, and pot holes.

If you are in the market for sealcoat, be sure to consider these important factors before you decide to buy one:

1. Cohesiveness
2. Adhesiveness
3. Preparation Time
4. Cure Time
5. Ease of Workability/Application
6. Elasticity
7. Weather Resistance
8. Moisture Resistance
9. Resistance to Natural Wear and Tear

It is highly recommended to consult a professional paving contractor for advice about choosing the proper sealcoat for your asphalt project. There are various circumstances that can influence the type of sealcoat you should use, and countless brands to choose from. A licensed paver can not only offer you accurate and reliable advice, they can provide the sealcoating service for you at an affordable cost!

Indianapolis Sealcoating for Commercial Pavements and Roads

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial sealcoating and asphalt maintenance services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.

Coal Tar-Based Seal Coats Versus Asphalt-Based Seal Coats

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In the paving industry, there has been a long-term debate regarding the pros and cons of both coal tar and asphalt seal coats. And anyone that works in the industry is either for one way or the other, having a strong opinion and preference about each. Although coal tar was used prior to World War II, asphalt-based seal coats were an innovative and exciting addition to the paving industry in the 1980’s.

Continue reading to learn more about these two types of seal coating materials, as well as, the pros and cons of of each.

Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833

Coal Tar Seal Coats

As mentioned, coal tar-based seal coats were used prior to World War II, and have been the customary seal coat for asphalt pavements east of the Rocky Mountains for many years. But in the recent years, many states and municipalities have banned the use and sale of coal tar seal coats for environmental and health reasons. Such states include Washington, Illinois, New York, Minnesota, Maryland, Washington State, The District of Columbia, and Austen Texas. The reason for such bans has to do with coal tar seal coat toxicity. It contains 20 to 30 percent coal tar pitch, which is a steel manufacturing by-product made of 50% polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are harmful to humans and the environment. In fact, it is considered a human carcinogen.

Although there are drawbacks to coal tar emulsions, there are a few strong points worth mentioning as well. Coal tar seal coating is highly durable and the application process is easy. It’s also oil and fuel resistant. It is said that the application of coal tar seal coating has to be precise in order to prevent harming the environment and jeopardizing human health; but everyone has their own opinions about this!

Asphalt Seal Coats

Many in the industry look to asphalt-based seal coats as an alternative to the off-putting coal tar based materials. It is a byproduct of petroleum refining and provides a deep, rich black topcoat color. They are much better for the environment because they do not emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOC’s). This makes this a great alternative to coal tar emulsions. It is also easy to install and less prone to cracking. A few downfalls to asphalt-based sealcoats include their vulnerability to fuel and oil. Unlike coal tar sealcoats, asphalt-based sealers are less resistant to oil, gasoline, and more.

Indianapolis Commercial Paving and Sealcoating Services

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pavement repair and sealcoating service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.