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SERVICES
ASPHALT
Understanding Asphalt
Asphalt, also known as bitumen, is a sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. It’s primarily used for construction, most notably in the paving of roads, driveways, and highways.
Composition
Asphalt is composed of a mixture of aggregate—which includes materials like sand, gravel, and crushed stone—mixed with asphalt cement. Asphalt cement is a byproduct of refining crude oil, which acts as a binder to hold the aggregate together.
Types of Asphalt Pavement
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Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA): This is the most common type used for road construction and repairs due to its durability and weather resistance.
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Cold Mix Asphalt: Perfect for temporary repairs and cold climates.
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Recycled Asphalt (Milled Asphalt): Recycled asphalt milled from existing roads. It’s cost-effective and contributes to sustainability.
Advantages
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Durability: Asphalt pavements can last for decades with proper maintenance.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Generally more affordable than concrete, especially for large projects.
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Recyclability: Asphalt is one of the most recycled materials, which reduces the need for new materials and conserves resources.
Installation and Maintenance
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Installation: Asphalt is laid down and compacted to create a smooth surface. The process is relatively quick, allowing for roads and driveways to be used shortly after paving.
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Maintenance: To extend the life of asphalt pavement, regular maintenance such as hot rubbering cracks and resealing the surface is recommended.
Cost
The cost of asphalt paving can vary depending on several factors, including the price of crude oil, the project size, and local labor rates.
Choosing Asphalt
When deciding whether to use asphalt for a paving project, consider factors like climate, traffic volume, and budget. Asphalt’s flexibility makes it suitable for areas with freeze-thaw cycles, while its cost-effectiveness is attractive for larger projects.
In conclusion, asphalt is a versatile and widely used material for paving that offers a balance of durability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. Whether it’s a quiet residential driveway or a bustling highway, asphalt plays a critical role in our infrastructure.
SEALCOATING
What is Sealcoating?
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Sealcoating is the application of a protective coating to asphalt-based pavements.
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It’s a mixture of water, sand, polymers, and other additives that forms a protective layer.
Purpose of Sealcoating
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Protection: It shields the asphalt from oxidation, UV rays, and chemical spills.
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Longevity: Sealcoating extends the life of the pavement by preventing damage from various elements.
Benefits of Sealcoating
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Prevents Oxidation: The sun’s rays can dry out the asphalt, making it brittle and prone to cracks. Sealcoating slows down this process.
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Waterproofing: It fills in cracks, preventing water from seeping in and causing further damage, especially in freezing conditions.
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Aesthetic Appeal: Sealcoating gives the pavement a fresh, new look, enhancing its appearance.
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Fuel Spill Resistance: Asphalt and gasoline have similar chemical makeups, so fuel spills can soften and weaken the pavement. Sealcoating creates a barrier against this.
Process of Sealcoating
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Cleaning: The surface must be clean and free of debris.
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Repairing: Any existing cracks or holes should be filled before sealcoating.
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Application: The sealcoat can be applied using a sprayer or squeegee.
When to Sealcoat
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New Asphalt: It’s recommended to wait at least 6 months after new asphalt is laid before sealcoating.
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Frequency: Every 2-3 years, or as needed, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Considerations
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Weather: Sealcoating should be done in dry weather.
Sealcoating is a cost-effective way to maintain asphalt pavement and prevent costly repairs in the future. It’s a straightforward task that, when done correctly, does not need to be carried out often but provides long-lasting benefits.
HOT RUBBER
What is Hot Rubber?
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Hot Rubber involves the use of a heated, rubberized asphalt crack filler.
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This filler is applied into the cracks in the pavement to create a waterproof, durable seal.
How Does it Work?
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Cleaning: The cracks must be thoroughly cleaned of debris and vegetation.
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Heating: The rubberized filler is heated to about 400ºF in a melter.
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Application: The hot rubber is then carefully poured into the cracks.
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Smoothing: After application, the material is smoothed out to ensure a good bond with the asphalt.
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Curing: The filler quickly cools and hardens, forming a flexible seal that moves with the pavement.
Benefits of Hot Rubber
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Durability: The rubberized material forms a long-lasting seal that can withstand temperature changes and traffic wear.
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Waterproofing: It effectively prevents water from entering the pavement, which is crucial to avoid further damage and deterioration.
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Flexibility: The material remains flexible, allowing it to expand and contract with the pavement during temperature fluctuations.
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Quick Readiness: The repaired surface is ready for traffic in under an hour, minimizing disruption.
When to Use Hot Rubber?
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It’s ideal for repairing larger, more active cracks that are subject to movement and expansion.
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It’s commonly used in areas with significant traffic, as it can handle the stress of heavy loads.
Considerations
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Professional Equipment: The process requires specialized equipment to heat and apply the rubberized filler.
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Safety Precautions: Due to the high temperatures involved, safety gear and precautions are necessary to prevent burns and injuries.
Hot rubber crack repair is a professional-grade solution for maintaining asphalt pavement and extending its lifespan. It’s a preferred method for its effectiveness in sealing cracks and preventing future pavement issues.
TAR & CHIP
What is Tar and Chip?
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Tar and chip involves layering hot tar on the ground and then embedding crushed stone chips into the asphalt.
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Once the stones are embedded, they are rolled to create a compact surface.
Installation Process
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Clearing: The area is cleared of vegetation and debris.
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Grading: The site is graded for proper water drainage.
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Base Layer: A layer of base is laid down for stability.
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Compacting: The base material is compacted thoroughly.
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Tar Application: Hot tar is applied over the compacted base.
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Chipping: Stone chips are spread over the hot tar.
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Rolling: The chips are rolled into the tar to create a solid layer.
Advantages
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Aesthetic Appeal: It offers a more natural, gravel-like appearance.
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Customization: Different stone colors and sizes can be chosen for a unique look.
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Durability: It’s more durable than gravel and provides a solid surface.
Maintenance
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Self-Healing: Small cracks can heal themselves over time.
Cost
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Affordability: Tar and chip is less expensive than asphalt paving.
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Longevity: While not as long-lasting as asphalt or concrete, tar and chip can last up to 10 years.
Considerations
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Climate Suitability: It’s suitable for various climates and handles temperature changes well.
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Snow Removal: Care must be taken when plowing snow to avoid scraping the surface.
Tar and chip is a great option for those looking for a durable, attractive, and cost-effective solution. It’s particularly popular in rural areas and for homeowners seeking a unique driveway look.
