Best Asphalt Paving Company in Irving

Asphalt Paving

Do you have a cracked, crumbling, or aged driveway? Consider asphalt paving for your next driveway renovation project.

Asphalt is one of the most popular driveway materials. Its durability, compared to other materials such as concrete, makes it highly cost-effective. Asphalt also has a quick-installation and drying time. You can drive on your new driveway in two days. 

Is there a difference between asphalt and blacktop?

The terms “asphalt” and “blacktop” are used interchangeably in the US. That said, blacktop is mostly used to refer to driveways while asphalt is used when referring to driveways.

Technically, there’s a difference between asphalt and blacktop. Both are a mixture of bitumen and crushed stone. Bitumen is a viscous black semi-liquid that is a by-product of petroleum distillation.
For asphalt, the crushed stone and bitumen are mixed in a drum at a minimum temperature of 250 degrees. The hot mix at that temperature is malleable enough to pour and strong enough to hold the weight of vehicles.
​
Blacktop has a higher percentage of crushed stone than bitumen. As a result, it has a sparkle on the surface. Another difference is that blacktop is heated to a higher temperature, 300 degrees Fahrenheit. That increases durability but makes it unsuitable for heavy traffic. 

How many years does an asphalt driveway last?

The main advantage of asphalt over concrete is durability. However, that doesn’t mean asphalt lasts forever. Properly installed quality asphalt can last up to 30 years. Climate is another factor – too much heat cause cracking while too much rainfall softens and breaks down asphalt.

Installation and climate are out of your control. However, how you care for your driveway is also crucial to its durability.

​The following are some asphalt driveway maintenance tips:

• Prevent water damage by installing drainage away from your driveway.
• Periodically apply asphalt sealer to protect your driveway from sun damage.
• Repair cracks, chips, and holes, as soon as possible.
• Avoid driving on the edges of your driveway, as this is where the asphalt is weakest.
• Avoid parking on the same spot every day on new asphalt.
• Spray water on your driveway on extremely hot days.

How long does it take for asphalt to cure fully?

It takes 6 to 12 months for asphalt to cure fully. That said, in 2 to 3 days, your new asphalt driveway will be dry enough for vehicle traffic.

Curing means that the asphalt has fully hardened. As asphalt cures, it changes color from black to grayish. During the curing process, asphalt loses its oil due to oxidation from the sun. This oxidation process is crucial since fresh asphalt has too much oil.

The excess oil can result in scraping on the surface of new asphalt when a vehicle steers too hard (power steering tear). That is particularly a problem in residential driveways where cars maneuver to enter garages. Until your asphalt driveway fully cures, it is best to avoid extremely heavy traffic.
To slow down cracking and deterioration of your driveway, you need to apply asphalt sealant.

​Sealing asphalt allows the asphalt to cure without losing too much of its oil. However, applying the sealer immediately after application results in the asphalt retaining too much oil. Experts recommend waiting for at least 30 days before sealing. 

Providing Excellent Paving Contracting Services
Call Today:  (972) 895-6977