Asphalt pavement can have a much longer life than some people believe. For example, there are several stretches of asphalt paving on busy interstates built more than 50 years ago that are still in service. However, professional asphalt and paving organizations, as well as state and federal transportation agencies, stress that without timely asphalt repairs and ongoing maintenance, a pavement cannot achieve such a remarkable life. Asphalt paving contractors typically include asphalt resurfacing as part of an effective maintenance plan.
Asphalt Resurfacing & Overlay Methods | Austin, Texas
What Is Asphalt Resurfacing?
Resurfacing is the installation of a layer of asphalt over the top of an existing pavement. This is why many contractors refer to it as an asphalt overlay. Do not confuse resurfacing with reconstruction; reconstruction involves removing the existing pavement, rebuilding the foundation and installing new pavement. An overlay is much more economical than reconstruction.
Is an Asphalt Overlay Always an Option for Damaged Pavement?
Not all pavements are suitable for an overlay. One critical requirement is that the foundation needs to be in a relatively stable condition. If the foundation needs extensive work, it may be more economical to reconstruct the pavement. A reconstruction may also be more economical if more than 25 percent of the pavement has alligator cracking, subsidence, deep potholes or large cracks.
How Long Do Asphalt Overlays Last?
Asphalt and paving contractors know that the life of any pavement will depend on a variety of factors, including the weight and number of vehicles using the pavement, the type of soil beneath the pavement and the quality of the pavement’s drainage. Parking lots and public thoroughfares often need resurfacing after they are 12 to 15 years old. If the asphalt contractor installs an overlay of the correct depth, the overlay receives proper maintenance, and the customer is proactive about repairs, the overlay can often have a similar life before it needs another resurfacing.
How Do Contractors Install Asphalt Overlays?
The precise steps depend on the type and condition of the existing pavement. Following are the basic steps that most contractors take when installing overlays.
• The paving contractor will use a milling machine to ensure proper drainage and to keep the new surface at the appropriate height.
• The contractor will repair cracks, potholes and/or small areas of alligatored asphalt.
• If necessary, the contractor will apply a tack coat to ensure proper bonding between the overlay and the underlying pavement.
• The contractor will spread fresh asphalt and compact it. Hot mix asphalt is typically preferred over warm mix. Depending on the depth of the overlay, it may be necessary to install and compact more than one course of asphalt.
• If appropriate, the contractor will apply edge lines, parking lot stripes or other pavement markings. Typically, traffic can access the resurfaced pavement within 24 hours.
Choose a Reputable Asphalt Austin TX Contractor
As one of the leading asphalt paving contractors in Austin and Central Texas, Alpha Paving is ready and able to assist you with all your pavement-related needs. We offer a full range of asphalt and concrete services, including asphalt repairs, asphalt paving, asphalt resurfacing, sealcoating, parking lot striping, concrete installation, concrete repairs, asphalt milling, road construction, speed bump installation, parking lot maintenance, crack sealing and street maintenance. Our clients include counties and municipalities, churches, industrial facilities, shopping malls, educational facilities, retailers, health care facilities, restaurants, subdivisions, apartment complexes, hotels, and office parks. We deliver superior results and exceptional customer service and at a competitive price. You can request a free quote by submitting our handy online form or calling 512-677-9001.