What Is an Asphalt Resurfacing or Overlay? | Cape Cod
What Is an Asphalt Resurfacing or Overlay? | Cape Cod
Sooner or later, the surface of all asphalt pavements will need to be renovated. When crack repairs and patches are no longer enough, many property owners believe that their only option is to have the pavement removed and replaced. However, asphalt paving contractors can often delay a total reconstruction through asphalt overlays or asphalt resurfacing.
What Is an Asphalt Resurfacing or Overlay? | Cape Cod
The two terms are interchangeable. Whether the work is performed by commercial paving companies or driveway paving contractors, both terms refer to the renovation of the surface layer of the asphalt without reconstructing the underlying foundation.
Can All Pavements Be Resurfaced?
The foundation supporting the pavement must be stable and in good condition. Asphalt paving contractors typically extract a core sample to check the foundation’s condition. If the foundation is in poor condition or the pavement has extensive alligator cracking, it may be more economical to reconstruct the pavement rather than resurface it. Overlays can be installed on concrete pavement as well as on asphalt pavement. However, only your asphalt company can tell you whether an overlay is an excellent choice for your specific pavement.
What Are the Advantages of Resurfacing Asphalt Pavement Instead of Reconstructing It?
An overlay can save you a substantial amount of money. An overlay will also require less time than reconstruction, so your pavement can be returned to service sooner. Furthermore, although an overlay is faster and more economical, it will have the appearance of new construction.
How Long Will an Asphalt Overlay Last?
Whether the pavement is newly constructed or an overlay, its longevity can be affected by the quality of the care it receives, the weight of the vehicles it supports, the volume of traffic it receives and other factors. A properly installed and well-maintained overlay on a street or parking lot typically lasts between 10 and 15 years. On residential driveways, overlays often last much longer.
Why Is Asphalt Milling Recommended for Resurfacing Projects?
Asphalt milling is the precision removal of asphalt pavement to a predetermined depth. When installing an overlay, milling can provide several significant benefits.
• An asphalt overlay is typically about two inches thick. The additional pavement depth can lead to rough transitions between the resurfaced pavement and adjacent pavements. Milling can smooth these transitions. This keeps drivers happier, reduces the risk that pedestrians might trip and prevents water from becoming trapped between pavements.
• If there are low spots in the existing pavement, milling can be used to make the area more level before the overlay is installed.
• Milling allows manhole covers, curbs, and other features to be kept at a height that is consistent with the new depth of the pavement.
• Proper drainage is critical to the longevity of asphalt pavement. Edge milling is an effective way to ensure that the pavement has the correct slope.
If your asphalt pavement is in poor condition, contact Dirtworks to learn whether asphalt resurfacing is an option. We offer a variety of services, including driveway paving, milling, commercial paving, asphalt reclamation, site work, excavations, sealcoating, snow removal, parking lot striping, dirt road repairs, asphalt overlays, pavement markings, and asphalt repairs. Dirtworks services most locations in the Cape Cod and Southeastern Massachusetts area. We have established a reputation for delivering exceptional work at competitive prices. If you would like to receive a free estimate, submit the request form online or call 508-240-5541.
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