Saturday, December 16, 2017

Techniques Of Asphalt Maintenance Central Alabama

By Carl Roberts


When you are considering asphalt maintenance for your driveway, there are four main areas considered. Over time, asphalt will become dry and brittle and thus develop cracks. The asphalt will wear away as more cracks form. After that, there will be water penetration which further worsens the situation. Water makes base materials to move, causing the surface to crack. When considering asphalt maintenance Central Alabama residents ought to be conversant with what it involves.

Patch repairs deal with isolated areas. Through the use of backhoe as well as saw cutting, there is removal of the pavement. The other option is to use grinding machines. After asphalt gets removed, it gets replaced with new ones. The method that is used for the removal is what determines amount that gets removed. The depth removed needs to be equal to 1.5 times the original thickness. There might be the need to replace base-rock so as to match areas in the surrounding.

Overlay is affordable and is used to give the surface a new image. When dealing with overlay, many factors are considered. For once, thickness will need maximum 2.5 inches and 1.5 inches on the lower side. Secondly, there needs to be a smooth transition. In considering where to have existing pavement ground, overlay section is not to be ground down to the level of existing structure. This weakens strength of overlay.

In regard to seal coating, it is a very important way of extending lifespan of asphalt and should not be overlooked. Seal coating is a mixture that contains water, emulsified asphalt, mineral fibers and admixtures. The coating will seal top layers and therefore will prevent water penetration into the pavement. Top layers will be protected against exposure to sunlight and also against oxidation.

Summer presents a good time to have the driveway sealed since the heat from the sun causes the seal used to dry faster. You can also schedule the maintenance during early fall since it protects your driveway from the encroaching winter. A sunny day is needed to apply the seal. Besides, it is supposed to stay dry for 24 hours after that. Therefore, weather forecast must be checked in advance.

Coal tar and acrylic are very popular materials which are used as sealants. Coal tar has been in use for a very long time. It is a material that is resistant to the weather. Besides that, it has sheen added to it. When coal tar is used, it is supposed to be applied after every 3 years. It can also be applied earlier if there is aesthetic need.

Acrylic sealers are a more recent option. They are very durable and provide a barrier between materials that cause damage to asphalt and the asphalt. The main things that cause damage are oil and gasoline. Acrylic sealers are friendly to the environment but are costlier. In addition to that, they can work for over six years before needing replacement.

Well groomed driveways prevent vehicles from damage posed by large cracks. They also add to the curb appeal of property. The driveway needs to be maintained regularly.




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