Asphalt Paving Blog

Asphalt Paving Facts: True or False?

wp_gallery_02With 70 years of experience in asphalt manufacturing and paving, we have heard it all when it comes to asphalt. We thought we would share some of the most common and relevant questions we’ve heard from residential, commercial and municipality customers over the years.

True or false? In colder climates, asphalt outperforms concrete.

True. In colder climates where there is a hard winter, there is no doubt that asphalt is superior to concrete. Concrete surfaces are subject to frost heaves, expansion and contraction; all of which will cause damage and deterioration. In addition, salt used in the winter months causes concrete to deteriorate. Asphalt, on the other hand, is not affected by the cold and does not deteriorate from salt use.

True or false? Asphalt is environmentally friendly.

True. Asphalt is America’s most recycled material, with over 100 millions tons used each year to rebuild roads and highways. In addition, porous asphalt is an ecofriendly option for many paving jobs. Porous asphalt allows water to drain through the asphalt and into the stone bed below. In fact, up to 80% of rainfall infiltrates the surface, helping to remedy erosion, retain water for plant life and return water to the natural water table.

True or false? Proper maintenance and sealcoating means your asphalt surface can last up to 20 years.

True. Properly installed and maintained asphalt surfaces can last anywhere from 15-20 years. Regular sealcoating on your residential driveway or commercial asphalt paved parking lot is the best way to prevent cracking, potholes and depressions. Sealcoating protects pavement from oil and chemical spills, oxidation, water penetration and actually accelerates the rate of melting snow and ice.

True or false? There are different types of asphalt, and the asphalt used should be matched to the needs to the customer.

True. Asphalt is the most versatile pavement material available. Asphalt is used to pave roads, driveways, parking lots, airport runways and even racetracks. Each job requires a different type or mix of asphalt. It is important you find a contractor who knows the difference between perpetual and porous pavement, for example, and one who can tell you the best surfaces to apply hot mix asphalt.

True or false? 50 percent of parking surfaces in the United States are surfaced with asphalt pavement.

False. More than 90 percent of parking areas in the U.S. are surfaced with asphalt pavement, the material of choice for most commercial and residential development owners.

True or false? Smooth asphalt saves you money on fuel.

True. Interestingly enough, smooth pavement means less fuel consumption and less wear and tear on your vehicle. Studies done by the Federal Highway Administration have shown that driving on smoother surfaces can reduce fuel consumption in the neighborhood of 4.5 to 5 percent as compared to fuel consumption on rough pavement. 

True or false? Oil stains and leaf stains are difficult to remove from asphalt and require professional help.

False. There are do-it-yourself solutions for even the most stubborn oil stains on your asphalt surface. Start with a through cleaning and then try using your common household cleaners, like soap, vinegar or even laundry detergent.

How did you fare on these true or false questions? Did any of them stump you?

For more information on Wolf Paving’s services or to request a detailed estimate, please call our Milwaukee area office at 262-965-2121. If you live in the Madison area, please call 608-249-7931. We offer residential, commercial and municipality paving services.