If looking at, or driving on, your asphalt is making you cringe, it’s likely causing a chain reaction among your community or customers. In a commercial property, it can contribute to overall curb appeal sparking a bad visitor experience; in communities and public roadways, it can cause vehicular damage, accidents and again, create a less than admired overall community appearance. Whether the cause is lack of preservation measures such as sealcoat or lack of maintenance or just plain neglect paired with wear over the years, the damage is done and property managers are left with two options to fix it— resurface or repave.Deciding what your pavement plans should be really depends on the type/extent of the damage done and the age of the surface. The best route to a cost-effective solution is to have your surfaces inspected by a professional who can give you a breakdown of the issues and help you choose the best plan of action. However, it always helps to be informed.Below is a list of conditions relative to your asphalts condition to inform you about your options.
Resurfacing
Resurfacing means focusing on just the top layer of the asphalt surface. With this process asphalt paving contractors will remove and replace the top layers of your existing asphalt. This option is cheaper than repaving and is best suited if:
- Your surface was paved less than 20 years ago
- The issues appear to be surface level (not down to the foundation)
- Less than 30% of the pavement needs repair
- The cracks are less than a quarter-inch wide and a few inches deep
Repaving
Repaving is the removal and replacement of the existing pavement. This includes a rebuilding and regarding of the foundation with brand new asphalt added. This is the only option when the damage is too severe and/or the majority of the asphalt is failing. While this solution is costly, it will provide you a brand new, durable surface ready for decades of use. This option is suited for you if:
- Your existing surface is over 20 years old
- The foundation is unstable, damaged and/or showing signs of drainage issues
- More than 25% of your pavement needs repair
- There is alligator cracking, potholes and large cracks more than a quarter-inch wide and a few inches deep.
An asphalt expert will be the best resource for determining if these conditions apply and to help you make the right decision. The team at GuardTop is happy to help schedule a job walk or site inspection to assist you in beautifying your surfaces for the new year and many more to come. The team at GuardTop is happy to help schedule a job walk or site inspection to assist you in beautifying your surfaces for the new year and many more to come. Contact us for help, call 877-9GUARDTOP.[ARForms id=100]
