Can Extreme Heat Affect an Asphalt Sealcoating Application?
Asphalt pavements are famous for their good looks, economic cost, and construction speed. They have the ability to shed ice and snow faster than similar concrete pavements. As well as provide better traction. An asphalt parking lot or other pavement can have a long life if given the proper attention. One of the best things you can do to ensure that your pavement has a long, healthy, beautiful life is to have a reputable contractor apply asphalt seal coating regularly. However, you should know that asphalt sealcoating should only be used when the weather conditions are within certain tolerances.
What Weather Conditions Are Tolerable for Asphalt Sealcoating?
The manufacturers of sealcoating products specify both ideal and acceptable conditions. Ideal conditions include a temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. A humidity level of less than 50% and a steady breeze of at least three mph. The humidity level can virtually always be low for sealcoating parking lot pavements or streets. However, winds of over 12 or 15 mph can be problematic for an even sealant application. The major issue is the temperature. There are two temperatures that sealcoating contractors must monitor: the air temperature and the surface temperature. Although both temperatures are typically quite close to each other, there can sometimes be a significant variation between them. Many know that asphalt parking lot sealcoating should only be applied if both temperatures are at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit and rising. However, fewer people know that extreme heat can sometimes pose problems for sealcoating Long Island pavements.
How Does Extreme Heat Affect Asphalt Sealcoating Applications?
At the time of application, sealcoating mixes are roughly 70% water; the balance is the concentrated sealant, sand, and any additive deemed necessary for the particular job. The water in the mix must evaporate so that the sealcoat can dry, cure, and establish a strong bond with the pavement. Sealcoating is designed to cure from the top down at a predictable rate so that the bond has time to form. However, if parking lot maintenance contractors apply a sealant to excessively hot pavement, the sealant can dry almost immediately. The bond does not have time to develop, so the best you can hope for is that the life of the sealant will be shortened. The worst-case scenario is that the entire application will fail within days.
How Hot Is Too Hot for Sealcoating Islip Pavements?
Manufacturers recommend that their sealcoating only be applied if the temperature is over 90 degrees Fahrenheit if the contractor takes steps to counteract the heat.
1. Because the evaporation rate is also influenced by humidity and wind speed, contractors may choose days with high humidity levels and low winds to slow evaporation.
2. Sealcoating contractors may schedule an application to begin at dawn. At sunrise, the pavement has not had time to absorb heat from the sun, so it is typically at its coolest point.
3. The pavement temperature can sometimes be lowered sufficiently by misting it with water just before applying the sealcoat.
4. Contractors can apply a thin coat of sealant to act as a primer.
5. Certain additions can be incorporated into the mix to slow the evaporation rate.
Royal Pavement Solutions is an asphalt paving company that provides exceptional work to commercial clients on Long Island. Our services include sealcoating, site work, asphalt paving, building maintenance, asphalt repair, sweeping and portering, lot striping, asphalt crack repair, and concrete work. We are known for our superior craftsmanship, professional project management, and exemplary customer service. Contact us to request a free quote by filling out our online form, calling 844-777-7924, or emailing Kenny@RoyalPavementSolutions.com.
Asphalt Sealcoating: Is Thicker Better?
Although asphalt pavements can deliver numerous benefits, they will require a little routine maintenance to achieve their full life expectancy. One of the most effective and economical ways to protect your asphalt pavement is to sealcoat it periodically. Some people assume that a thick coat of sealant will offer better protection. However, unlike the choice of a sweater on a cold day, asphalt sealcoating is definitely a situation in which thicker is not better, primarily due to the way that sealants dry and cure.
How Does Asphalt Sealcoating Dry and Cure?
The first thing you should know is that drying and curing are not the same thing. As a sealcoating contractor can tell you, sealcoat can feel dry to the touch before it has cured. Asphalt parking lot sealcoating is about 70% water, and this water needs to evaporate for the particles contained in the mixture to knit together, form a protective barrier, and establish a strong bond with the pavement. Sealcoats evaporate their water from the top down; if an asphalt maintenance contractor applies too thick a coat of sealant, the top layer can dry while the lower layers are still in flux.
If you are extremely lucky, about the best you can hope for are cracks in your sealcoating. More than likely, however, the results will be far worse. The trapped sealant may never cure properly. Additionally, the sealant will flake off, starting with the very top layer, then continuing with each newly exposed layer. In the end, your pavement will have little or no protection from the sealant application. You will need to have your parking lot sealcoating job repeated quickly, often within just a few weeks.
What If a Thin Layer of Asphalt Sealcoating Is Not Enough to Protect My Pavement Properly?
When sealcoating parking lots, contractors virtually never apply just one thin layer of sealant. Instead, they apply a thin coat, wait for it to dry, and then apply a second coat. If you deem a third coat necessary, you will not apply it until the second coat has dried. Once the final coat of sealant has cured sufficiently, your parking lot maintenance contractor can proceed with repainting your stripes and markings.
Does the Application Method Control the Thickness of Asphalt Parking Lot Sealcoating?
Parking lot sealcoating can be applied with sprayers or squeegees, and some contractors choose to employ both on certain jobs. If your asphalt maintenance contractor’s workers are untrained and inexperienced, they can apply the sealcoat too thickly regardless of whether they use sprayers or squeegees. Conversely, if your contractor’s crew members are properly trained and well-experienced, they will be capable of using either method to apply a thin coat of sealant. Therefore, you should spend the time necessary to select a competent, reputable contractor for all of your parking lot maintenance jobs, including your parking lot sealcoating.
Trust Royal Pavement Solutions, Long Island’s Leading Asphalt Maintenance and Paving Company
Whether you need sealcoating, asphalt crack repair, lot striping, asphalt milling, site work, asphalt paving, sweeping and portering, concrete work, building maintenance, or asphalt repairs, we have the skills, experience, and staffing to serve you. Royal Pavement Solutions is a locally owned paving company with a deep commitment to delivering exemplary craftsmanship on every job. Our goal is your complete satisfaction, and we are more than willing to put in the work needed to reach that goal. We would be happy to provide you with a free quote if you will fill out our online request form. You can also call our Islip office at 844-777-7924 if you prefer.
Employee Dedication Runs Deep at Royal Pavement Solutions
Regardless of the industry, successful businesses typically have one thing in common: great employees. At Royal Pavement Solutions, we know that we have some of the best in any business.
Employee Dedication Runs Deep at Royal Pavement Solutions
Prior to founding Royal Pavement Solutions, Kenny Roy started working for his grandfather’s paving company at a very young age during summer vacations. Initially, the company assigned him to floor duty in the shop. Then, he learned and filled various functions as he progressed to field work and estimating. A private equity group purchased the family company, however, and it was eventually closed. Kenny then created his own team and opened a pavement maintenance business in 2019.
What Is the Key to the Success of Royal Pavement Solutions?
Kenny gives all the credit for the company’s success to his employees, which currently number 17 carefully selected individuals. Some of Kenny’s employees worked for his grandfather. Therefore, he handpicked them for his team when his grandfather’s business was dissolved. For example, Donna, Kenny’s office manager, has known him all his life and has been with the family for 34 years. In today’s world, many companies struggle to find dedicated employees, but dedication runs quite deep at Royal Pavement Solutions.
Does RPS Face the Same Type of Challenges Most Paving Companies Face With Employee Turnover?
Kenny states that one of the company’s strengths is the ability to retain their employees. This is a great source of pride for him. He further states that the entire team possesses a true passion for the paving industry. Also, he notes that every employee shares a commitment to delivering exceptional work to every customer on every job. Although Kenny admits that the company could serve more customers by hiring more employees, he is not willing to hire just any candidate. Kenny and his team seek to build long-lasting relationships with the company’s clients, and he knows that this requires serving them appropriately, giving them the most value for their money, and being willing to go the extra mile whenever it is necessary. Therefore, he only expands his team when he finds strong candidates who are also a good fit for the business and its company culture.
What Services Does Royal Pavement Solutions Offer to Long Island Customers?
Royal Pavement Solutions offers an extensive list of paving services, including asphalt paving, parking lot striping, asphalt milling, sweeping and portering, asphalt crack repair, sealcoating, building maintenance, site work, concrete work, and asphalt repair, to customers in every Long Island community. Kenny credits his employees for the company’s exemplary reputation for extraordinary results and superb customer service on every job. If you would like to experience the difference that Kenny and his team can make, submit the online form to request a free quote at absolutely no obligation to you. You can also call 844-777-7924 to make your request, or if you have questions that you need answered about any of the services that the company offers.
What Are the Elements That Can Damage Asphalt Parking Lots?
What Are the Elements That Can Damage Asphalt Parking Lots?
Asphalt parking lots are a crucial part of our urban landscape. They provide a smooth and durable surface for vehicles while enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of commercial and residential properties. However, despite their durability, asphalt parking lots are not impervious to damage. In this blog, we’ll explore the various elements that can lead to the deterioration of asphalt parking lots and how to mitigate these issues. Your asphalt parking lot is under constant attack from the elements, and a proactive maintenance plan is the best way to defend your pavement.
Harsh Weather Conditions:
One of the primary culprits that can damage asphalt parking lots is harsh weather. Extremes in temperature, such as freezing winters and scorching summers, can cause the asphalt to expand and contract, leading to cracks and potholes. Additionally, heavy rainfall can erode the surface and weaken the asphalt over time.
To mitigate the impact of weather, regular maintenance is essential. Sealcoating your asphalt parking lot and filling cracks can provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.
An example of harsh conditions:
View this post on Instagram
Heavy Traffic Loads:
Asphalt parking lots are designed to withstand the weight of vehicles, but excessive and heavy traffic can accelerate wear and tear. Over time, this can lead to the development of ruts and depressions in the asphalt surface.
Proper design and construction of the parking lot, including a strong subbase, can help distribute the weight of vehicles evenly. Regular inspections can identify areas that require immediate attention, such as resurfacing or patching.
UV Radiation:
Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can break down the binder in asphalt over time. This process, known as oxidation, can cause the asphalt to become brittle and prone to cracking.
To protect your parking lot from UV damage, consider applying a UV-resistant sealant. Sealcoating not only provides a protective barrier but also enhances the appearance of the asphalt.
Oil and Chemical Spills:
Automobiles often leak oil and other fluids, which can penetrate the asphalt surface and weaken it. Chemical spills, such as those from cleaning products or industrial materials, can also corrode the asphalt and compromise its integrity.
Promptly clean up oil and chemical spills to prevent long-term damage. Sealcoating can act as a barrier against these substances, reducing their impact on the asphalt.
Vegetation:
Overgrown vegetation, such as roots from nearby trees or weeds, can push through the asphalt, causing cracks and upheaval. Tree roots, in particular, can be powerful enough to lift sections of the parking lot.
Regularly trim and remove vegetation near your parking lot to prevent damage. Installing root barriers can help keep tree roots at bay.
Conclusion:
Asphalt parking lots are an integral part of our infrastructure, but they are susceptible to damage from various elements. Harsh weather conditions, heavy traffic loads, UV radiation, oil and chemical spills, and vegetation can all take a toll on your parking lot’s longevity.
By implementing a proactive maintenance plan that includes sealcoating, crack filling, and regular inspections, you can extend the life of your asphalt parking lot and ensure it continues to serve its purpose for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained parking lot not only enhances safety but also leaves a positive impression on visitors and customers.
Revitalize your business’s image with a freshly paved parking lot from Royal Pavement Solutions. Our team of experts knows the importance of a well-maintained parking lot, and we are committed to helping you create a safe, organized, and visually appealing space for your customers.
Our Latest Pave:
Don’t let a dingy parking lot be the reason potential customers pass you by – Contact us right away to arrange a consultation, and allow us to demonstrate how we can improve the exterior appeal of your company. Choose Royal Pavement Solutions for superior quality, exceptional service, and a parking lot that will make your business shine.
If you would like to learn more about caring for your asphalt pavement, contact the experts at Royal Pavement Solutions. We are a well-respected company with an impeccable reputation. Our services include asphalt maintenance, milling, asphalt paving and repair, parking lot marking and striping, site work, and concrete repair and installation. You can call our office at 844-777-7924, or you can submit your request for a free quote online by filling out our online form.
Different Types of Asphalt Mixes
In North America, asphalt has become the leading paving material, and people widely use it for city streets, residential driveways, tennis courts, airport runways, parking lots, and many other types of pavements. As you can see, asphalt is a very versatile material that provides a durable, economical, and attractive pavement. To the untrained eye, all asphalt pavements may appear to use the same type of paving material, but there are actually several types that have been developed over the years. These include stone matrix, porous, and cold mix asphalts. However, most paving projects use hot mix asphalt, but there are various types of asphalt mixes within this one category.
Types of Hot Mix Asphalts
The melting point of the specific type, the stiffness of the mix, and the maximum and minimum thicknesses of the individual layers can affect the installation process.
How Does a Pavement’s Intended Use Influence the Type of HMA Chosen?
The choice of a type is often a balancing act between the cost and the properties desired. For example, engineers often choose Type 3 HMA for pavements that will have a high volume of slow-moving traffic. This includes municipal streets, parking lots, and bus stops. Type 3 is an economical choice that offers excellent durability. If the pavement has paramount aesthetics, engineers may choose Type 7 HMA for its ability to provide the smallest aggregates and create an extremely smooth surface for the pavement. Type 6 HMA has slightly larger aggregates than Type 7, so it is stronger and not quite as smooth. Type 6 and Type 7 are both popular choices for residential driveways, asphalt overlays, and surface courses.
Is the Same Type of HMA Used for All Courses?
Many times, builders can use different types to construct an asphalt pavement. For example, builders often consider the surface course, the top layer of the pavement, important for smoothness, quietness, and appearance. On the other hand, the base layer needs to be extremely strong and highly resistant to temperature changes and compressive stress. Builders typically use a type of HMA in the layers between the base and the surface that provides the best combination of strength, cost, stability, and longevity.
Contact Royal Pavement Solutions to Learn More
Royal Pavement Solutions can help you choose the right type of asphalt for your project. We are a leading provider of asphalt paving, repair, milling, and sealcoating, and we also offer concrete services, parking lot striping, and site work. Our remarkable reputation has been built on our exemplary workmanship, customer service, integrity, and professionalism. We would be happy to provide you with a free quote, so complete the online form to submit your request. If you prefer, call our main office at 844-777-7924.
