When it comes to asphalt driveways, there are three different types of services provided to customers through Reis Asphalt, Inc., located in the heart of Southcoast Massachusetts. Customers can choose to pave a brand new asphalt driveway, resurface an existing asphalt driveway or have patching does to repair specific problem areas. In this section we are going to discuss the process of overlaying an asphalt driveway.
Resurfacing Criteria
Not every driveway or parking lot needs to be completely rebuilt from the sub-base on up. If the existing asphalt is still structurally sound, the homeowner or business owner can choose to have the area overlayed with a new layer of asphalt. Resurfacing your driveway or parking lot is a great way to boost curb appeal without investing a lot of money.
It is important to understand that not every driveway or parking lot can be resurfaced. Reis Asphalt will do a thorough evaluation of your existing surface to determine whether the overall integrity of your asphalt meets the criteria to be effectively resurfaced. The finished results after overlaying an asphalt driveway will only be as good as the existing surface that it is going on.
If repairs are necessary, they must be completed before resurfacing your asphalt driveway. Any existing cracks that go un-repaired will actually reflect through the new layer of asphalt. Proper drainage also must be considered to ensure that the added layer of the driveway won’t create problems with standing water.
Resurfacing Process
Step One – Any sections of your existing driveway that are cracked or deteriorated must be repaired prior to overlay. These areas must be completely removed and replaced down to the base to ensure these areas will not reflect through the new layer of asphalt.
Before we even get started, we will do a complete analysis of how and where the water will flow on your resurfaced driveway and will repair any existing grades by reshaping the sub-base in the affected areas. Some adjustments will also be made to areas such as gutters, sidewalks, curbs, garage floors, storm sewers and the street approach aprons in order to maintain proper drainage.
Step Two – The next part of the process involves a thorough cleaning of the existing asphalt driveway. Then we use a tack coat to help bond the new layer of asphalt to the existing pavement.
Step Three – Reis Asphalt will then pave a fresh asphalt course that will level your driveway or lot to ensure adequate drainage.
Step Four – The final step involves paving a second layer of 2-inch deep top asphalt over the area to create a smooth finish.
Overlay vs. Reconstruction
When overlaying is an option, we provide our customers with an estimate for the complete repair and overlaying process as well as an estimate for a complete reconstruction of a brand new asphalt driveway. There are distinct advantages to both methods, so it is important to consider them both carefully.
When done properly, resurfacing your existing asphalt can add an extra 8-15 years out of your current driveway or parking lot. However, a newly reconstructed pavement will last anywhere between 20-30 years with proper care and maintenance.
If you have questions about the services provided by Reis Asphalt, Inc. or if you want to set up an appointment for a free consultation on your next asphalt driveway or parking lot, please call us at 508-996-0735 or use our online contact form. We have been paving asphalt driveways throughout Southcoast Massachusetts in Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fall River, Little Compton, Fairhaven and the surrounding area for over 28 years.