Asphalt is probably one of the most abundant materials across the United States. You see them everywhere, on roads, driveways, and even roofs.
It is most preferred to concrete because you can repair it quickly and cheaply. The most known two methods of asphalt repair are:
- Sealcoating
- Resurfacing
Some people have a hard time understanding these two. One is simple routine asphalt maintenance, while the other is a more outright asphalt repair.
What’s the difference?
Sealcoating (famously referred to as re-sealing) is the process of applying a thin layer of asphalt over an existing paved surface. It would help if you did it at least every 3 to 5years.
Its purpose is to protect the paved surface from damage caused by UV rays, moisture, and fluids from vehicles.
Plus, it makes the surface look as good as new while extending your paved surface life expectancy.
It would be best to remember that seal coating doesn’t cure already existing issues such as cracks.
Resurfacing (also called overlaying) is a complete repair; you’ve probably seen it done on most roads. It involves complete removal and replacing the top layers of the asphalt surface.
You should try and resurface every 15 to 20 years.
It’s a very cost-effective measure, but You must have installed your asphalt surface correctly for resurfacing to be done.
Otherwise, a poor installation will need you to rebuild your paved surface all over again. Resurfacing may not also be possible when your asphalt surface has defects like alligator cracks and edge cracks.
Why is asphalt re-sealing and resurfacing necessary?
Asphalt plays the role of a binder that holds the gravel, sand, and rocks together, it is very flexible, and for this reason, it can hold the weight of vehicles and people.
However, with time weather elements do get the best of the asphalt. The heat from the sun makes the asphalt slowly deteriorate. As a result, the asphalt allows water and moisture into the surface after a while.
When the cold weather hits, the water inside expands, causing cracks on the asphalt surface, and when left unattended, the cracks can become ugly holes.
Asphalt re-sealing and resurfacing help prevent and deal with this kind of issue.
In need of asphalt repair and maintenance, contact Al’s Paving today if you reside in Temple, TX, and the surrounding areas.
