Decision Criteria for Commercial Asphalt Overlay versus Full Repaving
With vigilant care, your commercial asphalt surfaces can provide many years of reliability and beauty. However, all paving will eventually reach a point where you’ll have to make some tough choices. One common decision property owners and managers face is choosing between a commercial asphalt overlay and complete repaving.
Every surface is different, but there are several criteria you should consider when making this choice.
What Is a Commercial Asphalt Overlay?
A commercial asphalt overlay is a brand-new layer of asphalt applied to your existing pavement. Typically, it’s part of a larger asphalt resurfacing project. Contractors will remove several inches of surface pavement, leaving the foundation intact.
Then, they’ll apply an overlay. The final product is the look of new paving without the extensive construction, demolition, or costs.
What Are the Benefits of Asphalt Resurfacing?
There are many reasons to consider an Atlanta asphalt overlay. If your pavement is a viable candidate for this service, it’s almost always better to choose it over asphalt replacement. Here are several reasons why.
•Cost-Efficiency: Compared to asphalt replacement, asphalt resurfacing can cost around 50 percent less. Asphalt overlay companies reuse your pavement’s existing foundation, dramatically reducing costs.
•Quicker Turnaround: One of the most significant benefits of asphalt resurfacing is less downtime. Because resurfacing doesn’t require full demolition and reconstruction, projects reach completion much faster. That means fewer disruptions to your property or costly delays.
•Improved Longevity: Atlanta asphalt overlays can last up to 15 years, extending your pavement’s lifespan.
•Enhanced Curb Appeal: A properly installed overlay creates a smooth, beautiful finish. It’s a significant transformation that elevates curb appeal and creates a professional polish for your commercial paving.
•Fewer Repair Issues: A new asphalt overlay can do away with recurring damage like frequent potholes. The overlay will be pliable and crack-resistant, just like new paving. The best asphalt overlay companies can also use resurfacing to address drainage concerns, restoring your pavement’s original elevation.
When Does Investing in a Commercial Asphalt Overlay Make the Most Sense?
Here are a few factors that asphalt overlay companies consider when determining if pavement will benefit from resurfacing:
•Age: Contractors often recommend overlays for surfaces that are 15 to 20 years old. After 20 years, it’s usually better to consider replacing asphalt pavement.
•Foundation Condition: One of the biggest benefits of asphalt resurfacing is that you can reuse the foundation you already have. The overlay sits on top. As a result, the base layers must be in good condition. While Atlanta asphalt overlay companies can often perform minor repairs, extensive foundation damage will disqualify a paved surface from resurfacing.
•Extent of Damage: Asphalt resurfacing companies only recommend an overlay when damage and deterioration are relatively confined. Damage must not cover more than around 30 percent of the total surface area.
What Is Asphalt Replacement and Repaving?
As the name implies, repaving is the process of replacing asphalt pavement. It involves demolishing the existing surface before rebuilding from the ground up.
All asphalt surfaces will eventually require repaving and reconstruction. However, choosing a replacement too early can lead to lost potential and a much lower return on your initial investment.
When Is Replacing Asphalt Pavement a Better Choice?
Repaving makes the most sense when the damage is too widespread and deep to benefit from asphalt resurfacing. Paved surfaces with extensive alligator cracking, subsidence, foundation erosion, and other severe damage require replacement.
An overlay won’t correct deep-rooted structural issues. It won’t correct significantly deteriorated asphalt either, making surfaces older than 20 years better suited for repaving.
Need help deciding what’s right for your property? Turn to The Surface Masters. We’re experts in asphalt replacement and resurfacing, even earning national recognition for our quality work. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions for your budget, business, and property. We’ll work closely with you, reviewing deciding factors and providing valuable recommendations that count.
In addition to asphalt resurfacing, we offer new asphalt paving, milling & reclamation, repairs, crack sealing, sealcoating, concrete curbing, pavement markings, and more. Take the first step toward high-quality, long-lasting asphalt paving by calling The Surface Masters at (770) 250-6392 for a free quote. You can also reach the team via email at Info@TheSurfaceMasters.com or use our online form.
