When planning to install a new pavement, one of the most difficult decisions for many property managers is choosing between concrete and asphalt paving. Either material can be an appropriate choice for some locations and types of pavements, but in the Atlanta area, asphalt is the right material for most commercial pavements. However, if you are a property manager, there are a few things you need to know about asphalt’s routine care, preventive maintenance, and repair.
What Property Managers Need to Know About Asphalt Paving
What Is Considered Routine Care for Asphalt Paving?
Routine care for your asphalt pavement begins as soon as your paving company completes the installation with your decision to open the area to traffic. Asphalt needs time to cure sufficiently before it is subjected to loads, so be sure to wait the time specified by your asphalt company. After that point, routine care includes the removal of trash, dead vegetation, and petrochemicals on a regular basis. Keep weeds and grass along the edges of the pavement trimmed, and do not allow heavy loads to remain stationary for more than a few days.
What Is Considered Preventive Maintenance for Asphalt Paving?
Preventive maintenance encompasses virtually every procedure that is not an asphalt repair, a rejuvenation, or routine care. The purpose of preventive maintenance is to mitigate or prevent damage to the pavement, so the category includes sealcoating. Most asphalt paving companies also include crack sealing or crack filling in this category.
What Is Considered an Asphalt Repair?
Most contractors define asphalt repairs as procedures designed to mend damage that cannot be handled by a simple crack repair. Alligatored asphalt, potholes, and similar types of damage usually require a repair method known as patching, which involves the removal and replacement of the damaged area. Depending on the paving company, an asphalt overlay could be classified as a repair, or it could be considered a rejuvenation; the reason that the overlay is needed is often the differentiating factor.
Why Should I Choose Asphalt as My Paving Material?
When expertly installed and cared for, asphalt pavements can be remarkably long-lived, attractive, and safe. Compared to concrete, asphalt is less expensive, and the delay time between installing the pavement and opening it to traffic is shorter. When an asphalt pavement needs a repair, the procedure is usually economical and fast.
How Should Property Managers Budget for Their Paving Needs?
Paving contractors know that no two commercial pavements are identical, so you should discuss your specific needs with an experienced, reputable contractor. In general, however, you should budget for the following services at certain intervals.
1. Crack repairs are normally scheduled every six months.
2. Sealcoating is typically performed before a new pavement is a year old, then repeated every two years.
3. Asphalt repair procedures should be performed as soon as the damage happens.
4. Asphalt overlays are usually needed every 12 years or so.
If you need assistance with the installation or care of your asphalt pavement, we can help. The Surface Masters is a highly regarded asphalt repair, maintenance, and paving company serving the Atlanta metropolitan area. Our services include asphalt sealcoating, crack sealing, asphalt repairs, pavement markings, asphalt resurfacing and paving, and concrete work. We have an outstanding reputation, impeccable references, and a commitment to quality. You can get a free quote by filling out our online form, or you can call 770-250-6392.
