If you’re trying to figure out or planning on replacing, repairing, or maintaining your asphalt surfaces, let McConnell & Associates answer a few frequently asked questions we get about asphalt. We will cover questions about general asphalt maintenance and how to tell it is time to get it done. Also, what are your options for replacing your parking lot? We will also cover some of the maintenance for you to extend the life of your asphalt. If there are any questions you may have that we didn’t cover in this blog, reach out and let us know what that is so we can answer them for you as soon as possible.
The FAQ’s of Asphalt
Q: What is the average lifecycle of asphalt?
A: With no maintenance, the average life cycle is roughly 10-15 years. However, with regular maintenance such as asphalt patch repair, sealcoating and crack fill, that lifecycle can be extended to roughly 20 to 30 years before needing a full overlay.
Q: What are some signs that asphalt maintenance is needed?
A: Oxidation, cracks and potholes will appear, as well as any water pooling and drainage issues. You can tell it’s oxidation when the appearance of your asphalt surface becomes ‘lighter.’ When asphalt is recently paved or sealcoated, it will have a dark black appearance. Over time, that will fade away. When cracks and potholes are visible, it is time to have an asphalt professional come out and apply crack fill or do an asphalt patch on the failing section. Water pooling can also be an indicator of failing subgrade, causing issues in the drainage, which would need to be corrected to prevent any major issues to your asphalt surface.
Q: Why are the edges on the asphalt pavement cracking?
A:If there is no existing curb along the border, the asphalt will crack along the edges
Q: Why do I need asphalt crack fill?
A: Crack fill prevents water from entering the asphalt. When the water then freezes and thaws it will leave empty space in the pavement, compromising the structural integrity of the asphalt, which will likely cause a pothole.
Q: When should I Crack Fill vs. Sealcoating?
A: Asphalt parking lots will crack. Your parking lot should be evaluated and crackfilled every year or two to keep moisture from penetrating the cracks. Sealcoating should be done after your asphalt has cured and be repeated after the sealcoat material has worn off. We typically recommend sealcoating every 3 to 5 years depending on the traffic volume.
Q: How much does it cost to pave a parking lot?
A: The cost varies on by factors such as square footage of the parking lot, thickness of the asphalt, base preparation that will be needed, and local material costs.
Q: Can I pave over an existing asphalt surface?
A: Yes, but it does depend on the condition of the existing asphalt. If the base layer of existing asphalt is structurally sound and your lot has not been overlaid before then an asphalt overlay may be an option.
Q: Can asphalt be paved over an existing concrete parking lot?
A: Yes this can be a good option if there is only surface damage to the concrete lot. If there are broken areas these will still need to be repaired prior to the asphalt installation.
Q: When is the best time of year to pave my parking lot?
A: Spring, summer, and early fall are the most ideal times of the year to pave asphalt. The warmer temperatures help the asphalt cure properly.
Q: How long does it take asphalt to cure?
A: Typically, 24 hours. But could show tire marks days later on really hot days.
Q: Why does water seep to the surface between the curb and asphalt?
A: It could be groundwater or over-watering from a sprinkler system. A french drain can be installed and run to daylight or an existing drain box.
Q: How thick is the pavement on a typical parking lot?
A: A typical parking is 6” thick, 4” Base and 2” Surface.
Q: What is the difference between an edge mill overlay and complete mill and overlay?
A: If there are no drainage issues in the parking lot, you can do an edge mill and overlay. But if the lot is flat and has tight drainage the complete mill and overlay is your best bet. The new asphalt will be at the same elevation as the old.
Q: What are the slope requirements for ADA parking stalls and walkways?
A: All pavement in ADA areas is required to be less than 2% in any direction. This includes the parking area and designated walkways.
Q: What is the best fix for blown out asphalt in front of my trash dumpster?
A: This is typically caused by the weight of the trash truck and the base failing in that section. The best fix is for the asphalt to be removed and over excavated to allow for rock. Install 6” of rock and compact and then 6”-8” of new asphalt. Sometimes a concrete pad is the preferred alternative.
Q: Is asphalt a Green product?
A: Yes, asphalt can be recycled and reused. Most of the asphalt installed today includes recycled materials. In most cases this is around 20%-40% recycled asphalt.
Q: What is the best way to slow down traffic in a parking lot or drive lane?
A: An asphalt speed bump can be installed. Or there are also rubber and plastic ones that can be bolted down to the existing pavement.
These are just a few of the questions we field when it comes to asphalt, asphalt maintenance, and asphalt paving. If you have any questions on this topic please reach out to us at (816) 842-6066 or leave us a message at mcconnellassociates.org/contact/.
Also check out our business listing in NKC Business Council
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