Blogs

August 28, 2022September 7, 2022

Is Asphalt Only Black?

There’s just something about how sleek and polished an asphalt driveway makes your home look. After all, aesthetics play a huge role in your property’s curb appeal and overall value. That being said, even your driveway does not need to be limited to a single, cookie-cutter look. After all, your home and property is a further representation of you! So for the homeowner looking for a durable driveway that’s as unique as them, we’ve got good news. Asphalt is far more colorful than just black!

What Other Colors of Asphalt are Available?

Aside from varying mixtures which result in differing tones of gray, asphalt can also be tinted. How, you ask? A common procedure called sealcoating! While sealcoating is a normal part of your asphalt driveways maintenance, it can also be used to create different colors on your asphalt surface.

White or Cream Asphalt

A major benefit of tinting your asphalt driveway white is that it decreases the amount of heat absorbed by the driveway. In areas that receive an extreme amount of sun and heat, white asphalt stays up to 30 F cooler. The overall look of white asphalt is also extremely pleasing when paired with a lighter colored home. For those who love the look without the maintenance, cream tinted asphalts can mimic the appearance of concrete.

Go Green

Did you know that you could tint your asphalt various shades of green? This is great for recreational areas, such as tennis courts. It’s a fun look that doesn’t distract from your other landscaping.

Red

To really stand out from the crowd, a red coated asphalt driveway is sure to catch the eye. There are varying shades available, from ruby red to fire truck. Just like lipstick, there’s a shade sure to match with your specific preference. This color also pairs well with brick homes.

August 28, 2022August 28, 2022

How to Prepare a Driveway for Asphalt Paving

Before paving any asphalt driveway, the area to be paved needs careful preparation. Both the quality and lifespan of your driveway depends largely on how well the underlying base is prepared. Epic Paving & Contracting has provided commercial and residential property owners with professional resources in asphalt paving for more than 20 years. With over two decades of paving experience, we are confident that preparation is the key to a beautiful asphalt driveway that holds up over many years of trouble free service.

Paving A New Asphalt Driveway

The first step when installing new asphalt is to remove the former, damaged surface. Whether it’s asphalt or concrete, start stripping it all away so you can start with a fresh canvas. You will most likely need heavy machinery such as bobcats and forklifts to help you remove the old paving. As you most likely don’t have these items in your backyard, an equipment rental company will come in handy here.
If you are installing a new driveway, the existing surface must first be removed. Once that is done, the area must be graded to ensure water will not sit on the surface of the new driveway. Appropriate water drainage is imperative to a durable, long lasting driveway. Effective drainage will help prevent your pavement from collapsing prematurely.
After grading, a supporting layer called sub-base is laid down. This layer assists in load-bearing, and is mostly made of crushed stones. If you are installing a new driveway on top of an existing one, it is imperative to lay a new sub-base for structural integrity.
A binder layer made of bitumen and oil is then laid down, followed by a proof roll on top. This proof roll detects any soft areas that may need more sub base added to it.
Once all your soft spots have been filled, it’s time for the new asphalt to be put in place! Asphalt is dumped and then rolled smooth, which helps to compact the material. Once the asphalt cools, it is ready for action!
But wait – there’s more! It is still wise to wait at least 24 hours before driving on your new driveway, and the asphalt must be cured between 30 (commercial) and 90 (residential) days to stop oxidation. Asphalt will eventually need to be resurfaced, but the good news is you can do it yourself using a driveway sealant!

August 28, 2022September 7, 2022

How To Keep Your Driveway Looking New

Curb appeal matters. In fact, it’s likely what drew you to your home in the first place! And we all know what a huge role your driveway plays in curb appeal. It only makes sense to keep your driveway looking as beautiful now as it did when it was brand new. That’s why today we are sharing the best tips for keeping your driveway looking and performing like new. So it can be the envy of the neighborhood for years to come!

Sealing Your Driveway Is Non-negotiable

Some homeowners believe that sealing their driveway is an optional, cosmetic “extra.” This is not the case! Sealing your driveway regularly (about every two to three years) is the best way to prevent costly repairs and visual boo-boos. Nobody wants to look at a driveway covered in stains, mold, mildew, and cracks.

Your Driveway Should Be Properly Cleaned

You can’t prevent oil or chemical spills, but you can take care of them to ensure they do not stain or weaken your driveway! Good old fashioned kitty litter is purrfect for sopping up oil stains, and a grease-cutting dish detergent will do wonders for removing any lingering stains. Just make sure you use a plastic bristled scrub brush to prevent scratching your driveways surface. Battling mold or mildew? A pressure washer can take care of that for you!

Patch That Crack ASAP

It doesn’t matter if you see a little crack or a big break. You should repair any damage to your driveway as soon as possible. Pay close attention to your driveway after a cold snap, heatwave, or heavy downpour so you can catch cracks early. There is also some preventative action that can be taken to avoid cracks. Such as ensuring water has an appropriate pathway off and away from your driveway, and parking in the center of your driveway as often as possible to avoid uneven pressure bearing.

Be Mindful of Removing Snow and Ice

Avoid using metal shovels and salt (if your driveway is made of concrete) to remove snow and ice from your driveway. If you do choose to use salt as part of your deicing routine, be mindful of the environment. Salt in water runoff affects plants and animals as well as local waterways. In fact, studies have shown increased salinity in rivers, lakes and drinking water as a result of roadway salting.

If you are diligent with your driveway maintenance, you will be sure to have a gorgeous, durable, and long lasting driveway for many years. If you need assistance repairing, seal-coating, or even installing a new driveway, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our qualified team of professionals are here to help!