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Most people drive on asphalt each and every day. But what is it, really? What is it made of?

Let’s take an in-depth look at what our roads, driveways, and parking lots are made of. 

Asphalt Ingredients

Asphalt is an aggregate, which means that it is composed of several ingredients, some of which are loose and must be bonded together. Asphalt is made primarily of loose sand and stone particles. These particles are bonded together by tar, and the resulting combination is asphalt. (Side note: tar is what gives asphalt its black color and smooth aesthetic.)

The tar adhesive is a key difference between concrete and other paving aggregates. 

Now that we know what goes into the asphalt mixture, the next question is: How does asphalt get installed?

Asphalt Installation

All asphalt driveways, roads, and parking lots need to be installed over a solid gravel base. This gravel has to be compacted and tightly compressed to create a stable base for the asphalt layer.

Then, asphalt must also be compressed in order to form a solid surface on top of the base layer. Once applied, it must be rolled by a very heavy roller in order to adhere properly to the surface.

After the asphalt has been rolled, applied properly, and compressed, it must be sealed to prevent surface damage. Sealcoating ensures that your asphalt won’t degrade due to the sun or rain. This special layer must be applied after the asphalt has fully cured and been in place for a few months, and it will extend the life of the asphalt. 

And that’s it! Next time you park outside your favorite store or pull into your driveway, you’ll have a slightly deeper appreciation for what, exactly, your car is sitting on.

For more information on our paving services, contact Asphalt Paving Service in Kansas City.

When you need a flat surface for your driveway, it can be difficult to choose between asphalt and concrete. Both have their own relative merits that might make them more attractive to homeowners, but there are a few key differences.

The Differences Between Asphalt and Concrete

Here’s a quick overview of some areas where asphalt and concrete differ:

• Reaction to temperature. Concrete cracks in freezing temperatures, whereas asphalt can become tacky and lose its shape in extreme heat. 
• Sealing capabilities. Asphalt can be sealed to extend its lifespan. Even its aversion to higher temperatures can be avoided if it is sealed and maintained correctly. Concrete can also be sealed, but this only helps prevent discoloration and grease accumulation.
• Upkeep. Asphalt must be sealed every 3-5 years. Concrete must be occasionally degreased if there are going to be cars parked on it. 
• Repair. It is significantly more difficult to repair cracks in your concrete. Asphalt, on the other hand, is easy to repair and inexpensive to resurface when needed. 
• Finishes. Concrete does offer different colors and finishes, while most asphalt is black with various small tweaks to the finishes that can be installed.

The material you choose for driveway paving is entirely up to personal preference. These are just some of the major differences between the two popular paving styles. Overall, asphalt is less expensive, less durable, and easier to maintain. Meanwhile, concrete is more expensive, more durable, and more difficult to repair. 

For questions, concerns, or to schedule an estimate for your asphalt paving services, call Asphalt Paving Service in Kansas City today!

Over time, all asphalt installations will develop cracks. If you don’t fix them, they can do a lot more than just making your driveway look a bit worse. It’s important that you fill and seal your asphalt cracks before they get worse or, in some climates, cause permanent damage to your entire installation.

Why Fill Asphalt Cracks? 

When your pavement is finished and sealed, the protective coating helps keep water from seeping into the asphalt. This is important because water from rain or other elements can erode the compound that keeps your asphalt solid.

Therefore, if cracks are left unfilled (or if they are filled and aren’t sealed afterwards), water can contribute to premature deterioration of your asphalt installation. If left untreated for long enough, cracks can expand and cause your asphalt to develop potholes and other structural deficiencies. 

Save Time and Money

Staying on top of preventative maintenance now can make a big difference later on. Keeping cracks filled and sealed can almost double the life of your asphalt installation. While it might cost you a little money upfront now, keeping up with your pavement maintenance is going to be less expensive in the long run.

In other words, you can avoid having to pay for an entirely new driveway installation by taking care of the one you currently have!

For asphalt paving care tips, services, and more, contact Asphalt Paving Service in the Kansas City area. We are more than happy to help you with all of your pavement-based concerns and questions. 

Routine asphalt maintenance is something that’s often overlooked by homeowners. There are already so many little projects you have to keep track of as a homeowner, it’s easy for your driveway to get pushed to the side. After all, it’s not going anywhere, right?

But that’s what could get you into trouble down the road. Many people don’t realize they should be sealcoating their driveway every few years to keep their pavement protected.

Why? Because sealcoating literally seals your asphalt to resist moisture, reduce oxidation from the sun, and safeguard against damage from traffic and the elements. Its protective qualities make sealcoating an essential weapon against natural wear and tear. 

Without sealcoating, your driveway will have a much shorter lifespan, and it will be vulnerable to gradual weakening over time. As a result, you’ll wind up paying more in asphalt repair costs for things like potholes, pooling, and cracks. 

This is why experts say you should sealcoat your driveway every handful of years. Exactly how often you do so depends largely on your climate. For instance, in dry, temperate climates, you can get away with sealcoating your driveway every five or six years. However, here in Kansas City, we experience pretty extreme temperature swings between summer and winter, and we also experience substantial humidity. The moisture and extreme heat and cold will do a number on your asphalt, so you should sealcoat your driveway roughly every two to three years. 

So, if you’re not already in the habit of routine driveway sealcoating, it’s not too late! Call Asphalt Paving Service right here in Kansas City for professional help with your driveway sealing. We’re excited to work with you!