We depend on our roads, and our roads depend on expert commercial paving.

Most roads endure a heavy load of traffic and constant exposure to inclement weather. That makes them vulnerable to cracking and other surface damage. Commercial paving can extend the life and durability of a road or parking lot, whether it involves striping an existing road, seal coating an asphalt surface to prevent damage or a new construction.

Commercial paving can include either asphalt paving or concrete paving. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and a commercial paving expert can determine which is best.

Before any commercial paving can begin, a study of the sub-grade soil is crucial. Concrete paving requires less of a sub-grade buildup than asphalt. However, it is important to ensure that the sub-base is uniform in material and density. For asphalt paving, the soil grade and thickness must be determined before beginning any work. Any foundation should be approximately four to six inches in uniform thickness. If the base is of poor quality, it should be dug up and replaced.

Asphalt is a mixture of liquefied gravel and sand. One major advantage of asphalt over concrete is that it is much less expensive. An asphalt surface requires fewer repairs than concrete and is less vulnerable to damage caused by salt or ice. It is more flexible and can withstand heavy traffic better without cracking, although the flexibility of asphalt can lead to pot holes. An asphalt surface does require periodic seal coating to ensure a long-lasting smooth surface.

The benefit of concrete is that is has a longer structural life. Concrete roads are designed to last approximately thirty years and to require minimal repair and maintenance. This is a definite plus for roads with heavy commuter traffic. In addition, concrete is more rigid than asphalt and distributes more evenly over a surface. Concrete surfaces are less prone to develop heavy traffic-related problems and therefore, they last for a longer time.

We depend on our roads. Proper commercial paving can make all the difference in the life of the roads we use every day.