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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Asphalt Paving in Michigan

Serving Wayne, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Livingston Counties

Welcome to our FAQ page. Here, we answer your top questions, providing insights into the process, materials, and maintenance of your asphalt project. Dive in to become more informed and make the best decisions for your commercial paving needs. If you have any further questions feel free to contact us about professional asphalt services in Canton & Monroe, Michigan.

Commercial Asphalt Paving FAQs

What is asphalt paving?
Asphalt paving is a type of pavement that is made from a mixture of asphalt cement, aggregate, and water. It is used to create durable and long-lasting surfaces for roads, parking lots, and other commercial and industrial areas.
What are the benefits of asphalt paving?
Asphalt paving offers several benefits. It's cost-effective, providing a durable and long-lasting surface at a lower price point than many alternatives. It's also quick to install and has a shorter curing time, meaning less disruption to traffic flow. Asphalt is also recyclable, making it a greener choice. Its dark color helps melt snow faster in winter and provides a smooth surface for driving, enhancing safety and performance.
Why should I choose asphalt over concrete?
Choosing asphalt over concrete can offer numerous advantages. Asphalt is generally more cost-effective to install and repair. Its installation is faster, reducing disruptions. Asphalt's flexibility makes it less prone to cracking under heavy loads or shifting ground, and its dark color helps melt snow faster, a bonus in colder climates. Asphalt is also 100% recyclable, reducing environmental impact. Regular maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan, providing an excellent return on investment.
 
What are the different types of asphalt paving?
There are two main types of asphalt paving: hot mix asphalt and cold mix asphalt. Hot mix asphalt is made from a hot mixture of asphalt cement, aggregate, and water. Cold mix asphalt is made from a cold mixture of asphalt cement, aggregate, and water.
 
What is asphalt milling?
Asphalt milling, also known as cold planing, is a process that removes part of the asphalt surface from a driveway, parking lot, or road, without disturbing the underlying structure. This procedure is often used when an asphalt surface has become too damaged for simple repairs, but the base layer remains intact. The removed layer can then be recycled and used in new asphalt mixtures, making milling a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for maintaining high-traffic surfaces.
 
How long does asphalt paving last?
The lifespan of asphalt paving can vary widely, but on average, well-maintained asphalt pavement can last 15 to 20 years. Several factors influence its durability, including the quality of the initial installation, the volume and type of traffic, the climate, and the regularity of maintenance. Regular sealcoating, prompt repair of cracks or potholes, and good drainage can significantly extend the lifespan of asphalt, making it a durable and cost-effective choice for many paving projects.
 
How do you pour asphalt paving?
We pour asphalt paving in a few basic steps: We prepare the surface by removing any existing pavement or debris. A base layer of aggregate is installed. We then mix, spread, and compact the asphalt mix. The final step is sealing the surface.
 
What are the different types of asphalt sealers?
There are two main types of asphalt sealers: hot liquid sealers and cold liquid sealers. Hot liquid sealers are applied hot and require a primer. Cold liquid sealers are applied cold and do not require a primer.
 
How often should I schedule asphalt sealing?
As a general rule, you should schedule professional asphalt sealing every 2-3 years. The frequency varies based on a variety of factors, including the volume and type of traffic your asphalt pavement receives, the climate and weather conditions in your area, and the quality of the initial installation and maintenance. Regular sealing is crucial to extend the lifespan of your asphalt, prevent damage from elements like water and UV radiation, and maintain the aesthetics of your pavement.
 
What are the signs that I need to schedule asphalt repair?
Watch out for visible signs of damage in your asphalt pavement that indicate a need for repair. These include potholes, cracks, fading or a worn-out appearance, pooling water, and raveling (loose aggregates on the surface). If these issues are not addressed promptly, they could worsen over time, causing more extensive damage and leading to costly repairs.
 
How do you repair asphalt?
First, we assess the damaged area to determine the severity of the issue. For minor cracks, we may use crack filling. For larger cracks or potholes, we employ patching or resurfacing techniques. When damage is extensive, full-depth reclamation might be necessary. Regardless of the repair method, we ensure a smooth, uniform finish that blends seamlessly with the existing pavement, prolonging its lifespan and enhancing its appearance.
 
What are the different types of asphalt cracks?
There are three main types of asphalt cracks: transverse cracks, longitudinal cracks, and alligator cracks. Transverse cracks are cracks that run across the pavement. Longitudinal cracks are cracks that run the length of the pavement. Alligator cracks are a network of small cracks that form a crisscross pattern on the pavement.
 
What are the different types of asphalt potholes?
There are two main types of asphalt potholes: full-depth potholes and partial-depth potholes. Full-depth potholes are potholes that go all the way through the pavement. Partial-depth potholes are potholes that do not go all the way through the pavement.
 
What are the benefits of hiring a professional asphalt paving contractor?
Hiring a professional asphalt paving contractor can help you ensure that your asphalt paving project is done correctly and efficiently. A professional contractor will have the experience and expertise to choose the right type of asphalt for your needs, install it properly, and seal it correctly.

Schedule Asphalt Services From Canton to Monroe, Michigan

Whether you need pro asphalt repair, milling, resurfacing, sealing, or coating, S&J Asphalt Paving Company can handle all your commercial and industrial asphalt paving needs. Fill out our online form or call us to get an estimate on asphalt services in Monroe & Canton, Michigan.

Commercial Asphalt Contractors With Top Notch Reputation

“Top shelf company! Crews show up on time as scheduled. Work done professionally. Just finished our Condo complex of 120,000 square feet. Mark is great to work with on planning and oversight of the job. Patching, new speed bumps, crack filling, sealcoat and parking stripes and it looks new!” 5 star rating Robert Piech, Shiawassee Condos