Here at Wolf Paving, we care about ensuring our work is the very best it can be and that it lasts as long as possible. To achieve the best results, we carefully consider every aspect of a paving project, literally from the ground up. What kind of soils exist at the site? If paving has been done before, what materials were used and are they re-usable in the current project? We ask these questions because we know an excellent base is required for an excellent result. A weak base could result in the pavement above it shifting, cracking, or even sinking. 

You may already be aware that the asphalt being laid down for new roads and patching older roads is largely made up of recycled material.  In fact, asphalt is one of America’s most recycled materials.  You may also be aware that, in some cases, the recycled material comes from roofing shingles as well as roads. 

Using RAS in Asphalt Mixtures

The use of recycled asphalt shingles, or RAS, has been fairly limited in the past, though, mostly because roofing materials contain a lot of extra material besides the asphalt itself.  For example, roofing shingles may have nails, plastic, fiberboard, paper, cellophane, and wood.  This makes the recycling process much more challenging. 

Additionally, local and state governments have been waiting on additional studies to be done regarding whether asphalt-using RAS is as reliable as asphalt that does not use it. These studies are increasingly showing that asphalt that uses RAS is as reliable and durable as more standard asphalt mixes, provided they are properly mixed.  Therefore, the use of RAS mixtures is on the rise.

The way your driveway looks can reflect on your home and property. When an asphalt driveway is first installed, it has a fresh look to it. After some time, you begin to see the wear and tear from weather and any traffic. To keep the driveway protected and looking fresh, an asphalt overlay can be added.

If you are considering an asphalt driveway installation there are certain things you need to understand before starting the project. First, determine what time of year is best for installing an asphalt driveway. This will depend on the climate where you live. Determine the best weather conditions for installing an asphalt driveway. Understand how the size and depth of the project will effect installation. Find out what the homeowner needs to do to prepare for asphalt driveway installation.

If you live in a warm climate it is possible to install asphalt year around. If you live in a climate where there is a hard winter, asphalt cannot be installed in cold weather. In cold weather, the hot asphalt will cool quickly and there may not be enough time for the crew to finish grading and smoothing the asphalt before it hardens. If this happens the driveway will come out bumpy and uneven or the project will not get finished.

The thicker the asphalt application the more time the crew has to work with it. In general, a thicker application stays warm longer than a thin application. At 40F a 1.5” application must be finished in 16 minutes, while a 3” application must be finished in 46 minutes. It is better to wait until the temperature is above 70F to install asphalt, to make sure there is enough time to smooth and grade the driveway. It is also best to install asphalt when conditions are dry.

Homeowners generally know very little about installing an asphalt driveway. Preparing for asphalt driveway installation involves selecting a contractor and reviewing the contract. Only deal with reputable contractors, get at least three quotes and make sure everyone is quoting the same quantities and specifications. Get references before making a choice of contractors and review the contract to see who is responsible for such things as, moving fences, lights, overhead wires, damage to grass and bushes, etc. The contract should include: starting and completion dates; workmanship; depth of crushed aggregate; inches of compacted asphalt; types of hot mix; dimensions of pavement; warranty period and what it covers.

Before work is started the homeowner should check with utility companies for underground utilities, obtain a permit if required, and verify that new construction satisfies building codes, placement requirements and inspection requirements. 

Your parking lot or driveway is in disrepair with pot holes everywhere but you have no idea who to turn to for your asphalt maintenance. You know you need to get it fixed but where to even start looking?