Is your asphalt driveway, parking lot, or road showing signs of serious deterioration? If you’re past the point of patching, filling, or repairing, then you’re left with two options: Either put down an asphalt overlay, or tear up and repave your entire paved structure.
For many property owners, asphalt pavement overlays are the more sensible choice. They’re more budget-friendly than total repaving jobs, and they can be completed without having to demolish the entire existing surface first.
So, if you’re interested in a pavement overlay, here’s what you need to know about how the process works. This should help you decide if an overlay is the right move for you.
First, How Extensive Is Your Pavement’s Damage?
If your pavement has sustained major structural damage over the years, then an overlay may not be a good fit because the old pavement will need to be ripped up from root to stem anyway.
What constitutes “major structural damage”? Conditions like large, deep potholes, tree root damage, extensive rutting, and bad drainage fall under this umbrella.
For Moderate Damage, Asphalt Milling Is a Must
Cracks, raveling, and other superficial damage to the top layer of your paved surface will require asphalt milling before the overlay can be applied. With asphalt milling, we will remove the damaged layer so that the new asphalt can develop a strong bond with the layer beneath it. This will also ensure a smooth, level surface on top.
Base Repairs May Be Necessary, Too
While an asphalt overlay prevents you from having to rip up the entire foundation of a paved structure, the base may still need some work before the new asphalt layer can be installed. This will ensure the new structure is firmly supported and will prevent structural problems from developing in the future.
Finally, the Asphalt Overlay Gets Installed
Once all of the above steps are addressed, the asphalt overlay can be installed. Usually between 1.5″ to 2″ in thickness, the overlay will provide your driveway or parking lot with a fresh, even surface.
Now, if you’re ready to take the next steps with a pavement overlay, get in touch with the crew at United Asphalt Paving! We will be happy to assess the current state of your asphalt and make a plan for installation.
Call now in Fort Worth, Houston, or anywhere in between!