Where do pavement defects come from?
Pavement defects are caused by one or more of the following sources: Improper technique or workmanship, defective materials, unstable sub base, inadequate design, and environmental impact. To get the most life out of your pavement it is important to have a reputable contractor design and install your asphalt surface. Proper maintenance is also a key factor in preserving surface life. Examples of Pavement Defects
Why does my driveway crack?
Cracks that run across asphalt in a line are usually formed due to expansion in sub base materials such as soil or rock, and then transmit through the asphalt. Some cracks which resemble alligator scales, or spider webs are a result of soft, yielding base, or too heavy of a load using the surface. Other cracks that form can be from cold seams, or joints made during the paving process.When resurfacing or overlaying an existing asphalt surface with cracks, the new surface can be protected from cracking again simply by installing Petro-Tac membrane strips over the crack. This will prevent any reflective cracking in the new surface.
How often should I seal my asphalt pavement?
Asphalt surfaces should be sealed periodically to provide maximum durability. Our formula of asphalt sealer is designed specifically for the St. Louis climate. Our formula combined with our application process should yield 2-4 years between applications. Both asphalt driveways and asphalt parking lots may have different application frequencies due to traffic, load force, and weather exposure. Asphalt sealer should not be applied annually to any pavement.
When are you going to do my job? When am I scheduled?
We provide an online scheduling system view-able by our customers 24 hours a day. Upon receipt of your contract you will be given an user Id and password to access the schedule. This is done to protect the privacy of our customers. Projects are generally listed in a "first come, first serve" order. Keep in mind that asphalt paving is subject to weather conditions and soil conditions. Poor weather or moist soil will affect scheduling of your project. The schedule is intended for providing updates that you as our customer can follow at your own convenience.
How long before I can drive on my new surface?
Asphalt Paving – 24 hours for residential, 2 hours for commercial. Asphalt seal coating - 24-48 hours.
I have several cracks in my pavement. How should they be treated?
First determine the age and overall condition of your asphalt pavement. You don't want to invest too much money into something that may have to be replaced in a year or two. As a general rule, cracks ALWAYS need to be filled in order protect the asphalt surface from being damaged due to frost heaves. Hot, rubberized filler is the best for filling cracks . However, on residential asphalt driveways, liquid crack filler is a good alternative because it has a less obtrusive look and its not subjected to highly repetitive traffic; like a parking lot. Keep in mind that cracks will always come back over time.
How warm does it need be? What temperatures? Is it too cold?
This is a question generally raised during winter months. For Asphalt paving, temperature need to be at least 40 degrees and rising for commercial, and for residential at least 50 degrees and rising. Asphalt paving has a better finish the warmer the ambient temperature is. Thickness of asphalt also plays a role in how warm it should be for an ideal finish. The thicker the layer, the longer it retains heat; making it easier to obtain a good finish. For seal-coating, it needs to be 50 degrees and rising with no overnight chance for frost. Seal coating may be damaged by cold temperatures. Colder temperatures also affect how sealer cures. During the cure process, asphalt sealer undergoes molecular changes that are highly affected by temperature and sun exposure. Ideal temperatures for seal coating are between 65 and 90 degrees.
Do you do concrete or patios?
NO, but we highly recommend referring to the Better Business Bureau before selecting a contractor. There are many concrete contractors available, and the differences between the quality they offer vary greatly. www.bbb.org
Can a price be given if I have my square footage?
NO. Every project receives a customized, detailed proposal outlining the scope of work and prices. No "cookie cutter" pricing. Our estimators need to look at your job closely to make sure every aspect of your project is accounted for. This will ensure your expectations are met.
Do you do "chip & seal" or "tar & chip" surfaces?
NO. While aesthetically pleasing, these styles of surfaces can be messy due to loose aggregate or tar "oozing" in hot summer temperatures.
Do you have insurance?
YES, we carry all insurances to cover any and all incidents that we will be held responsible for. We carry higher than average limits on Workman's Comp, General Liability, and on our fleet.
Are there discounts available?
Yes. We offer 2 types of discounts. The first discount would be for cash payment. The second type of discount would be for multiple jobs as once; ie: two neighbors combining their projects. The amount of the discount is determined by the estimator, or operations manager.
How should I treat Ice and Snow?
Asphalt is not vulnerable to Rock-Salt or De-Icer. If you have ice, just use salt or other melting agents from your local hardware, or feed supply store. Make sure if you use salt, that you keep it away from concrete surfaces, because it can cause damage to concrete. If you have snow, you can use a snow blower, plow, or shovel to remove the snow from your asphalt pavement. Just be sure to mark any curbs or parking blocks you have, because they can be damaged, cause damage to equipment, or cause injury to people.
Have a question you do not see? Contact us now and we will be happy to help!
