Asphalt Paving
Asphalt pavement is used in a variety of different applications. It is durable, cost-effective, strong, and the material of choice for parking lots across the nation. Asphalt resists heavier loads compared to concrete and lasts for many years when combined with proper asphalt maintenance.
In order to extend the life of your asphalt parking lot, it is important to develop a pavement management plan involving routine inspections and ongoing preventative maintenance. The following are common asphalt maintenance procedures for parking lots:
Asphalt Repair & Patching
Patching is a common asphalt repair on areas of pavement with potholes. Potholes occur when water seeps into pavement through unsealed or poorly sealed cracks. When the water freezes, it expands and enlarges the cracks. After the ice under the pavement melts, a void is left. Therefore, surrounding pavement falls into the void and forms a pothole.
Asphalt Repair Procedure
Asphalt repair consists of filling the affected areas with hot or cold asphalt mix, depending on the season and/or site location.
Asphalt Removal & Replacement
As asphalt pavement advances through its performance lifecycle, its appearance decreases over time. Fine hairline cracks spread and deepen within the asphalt. As a result, without ongoing maintenance, water may enter through cracks and holes may form. In this case, the most effective form of repair is to remove and replace the deteriorated area.
Cost
The cost for asphalt removal & replacement depends upon the geographic location, the amount of grading and substrate work required, and other site-specific factors.
Asphalt Resurfacing
In more severe cases of asphalt failure, resurfacing can be a long-term and cost-effective solution (also referred to as overlay).
If you notice grade depressions (standing water on the pavement) and/or large sections of alligatored areas (interconnecting cracks forming a series of blocks resembling an alligator’s skin), it is a good idea to have your pavement resurfaced.
Asphalt Resurfacing Procedure
This process consists of several steps including: preparing and cleaning the area prior to performing work, leveling asphalt of low areas, grinding of all transitions, adjusting of all drainage structures, and many other steps unique to each site.
Resurfacing Options
Geotextile Reinforced Resurfacing – An option that may be included with asphalt resurfacing is Petromat. Petromat is a non-woven, petroleum-based geotextile fabric. It’s used to lessen reflective cracking between the existing pavement and the newly installed asphalt surface. This fabric acts as a waterproofing membrane, while also adding structural support and strength.
Leveling Binder – In low areas, hot asphalt is installed at various depths to adjust pitch to proper grades while increasing parking lot strength.
Butt Joint/Grinding – When areas require the resurface to tie into other existing surfaces (i.e., concrete, etc.) asphalt is removed along the perimeter to allow proper depth of asphalt on the edge.
Transitional Milling – In areas requiring the resurface to tie into other existing surfaces (i.e., concrete, etc.), asphalt will be milled and replaced to allow proper depth and transitions. An asphalt milling machine is used to remove an appropriate depth of pavement in a grinding process. The spoils can then be hauled off and recycled.