FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Terra Pave is committed to helping you find the right solution for all your paving needs. Here are some common questions we get and helpful answers. If you do not find your question below, please give us a call toll free at 877-728-3320 or contact us via email.
Q. What is asphalt and why should I consider it for my project?
A. Asphalt is a mixture of sand, crushed rock, liquid asphalt, and recycled asphaltic rock all blended together with various measurements to make a variety of different types of asphalt. It is a petroleum-based product used for driveways, roads, paths and projects requiring a smooth surface for traffic. It is flexible and durable, easily maintained and aesthetically pleasing.
Q. Does asphalt deteriorate?
A. Asphalt can deteriorate when fine aggregates are worn away by weather and traffic, or when water is allowed to penetrate the aggregate base. Petroleum spills also cause deterioration by dissolving the cement that bonds asphalt. When the fine aggregates are worn away, there is nothing to bind the larger aggregates together and the surface begins to crack. If left untreated, cracks and potholes will allow water to penetrate the sub-grade, leading to pavement failure.
Q. How long will my parking lot surface last?
A. No two parking lots are the same and the rate at which pavement deteriorates depends on many factors, such as original design, construction, traffic loads and geographic location. The life expectancy of a well-designed, well-built and well-maintained asphalt parking lot ranges between 15 to 30 years. However, without proper maintenance, a parking lot will deteriorate significantly in as little as 5 to 7 years.
Q. How thick should my asphalt be placed?
A. Depending on the use and the amount of stress placed on the asphalt, pavements can range anywhere from 3-9 inches thick, from driveways to roadways on new paving.
Q. How much will my paving job cost?
A. Depending on size, location, thickness, and use, asphalt construction costs vary greatly, and each job must be priced individually. We will provide an evaluation and can help determine the right paving at the right price for you.
Q. Why are there price differences between various types of asphalt?
A. The price ranges greatly for the different types of asphalt depending on how much liquid asphalt is placed in the mix. More liquid asphalt in the material usually adds to the expense.
Q. Does the price of oil affect asphalt prices?
A. Yes. The price of asphalt will always be affected by crude oil prices, which fluctuate when supplies vary.
Q. How can I protect my asphalt investment?
A. Have a pavement management plan to keep the moisture from entering the pavement. Check for cracks and have them filled annually. Apply a seal two to three years after the installation of new asphalt. Proper crack repair procedures and maintenance can double the life of most asphalt pavements. A surface, which is five to ten years old, will usually need a ton of sealant per lane mile and can last up to ten years.
Q. When should automobiles be allowed on a parking lot after it has been repaired or repaved?
A. For asphalt resurfacing, depending upon the temperature of the day, allow 24 hours before reusing. Seal coating needs 24 hour to dry/cure so again wait 24 hours before reusing. For all other services, a set time frame should be discussed with your contractor prior to service.