Asphalt is a popular choice for commercial pavements because it offers several benefits to property owners. It looks good, and it can help add value to the property. When hiring a contractor for commercial asphalt paving, ask about references and past projects. Also, ask about their warranties.
Curb Appeal
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you know that real estate agents often talk about “curb appeal” a lot. The attractiveness of a house and its yard can mean the difference between a quick sale and a long wait on the market. Asphalt paving is an appealing option for homeowners because it can be done quickly and with minimal impact on traffic. Asphalt is also durable and aesthetically pleasing, and it helps a home look well-maintained.
A well-kept exterior can create a “halo effect” on the interior, so buyers will expect the home’s features and condition to be up to par. On average, homes with good curb appeal sell for about 7% higher than those without it. Strategic landscaping, a clean house and yard, and fresh paint can improve a home’s curb appeal.
Durability
Due to its durability and ability to tolerate adverse weather and heavy traffic, asphalt is a fantastic material for commercial construction. It also requires minimal maintenance and repairs when properly maintained.
Asphalt is made by carefully combining aggregate materials like rock, gravel, and sand with a sticky black petroleum byproduct called bitumen. This material is then heated to create a strong and durable surface that can handle much weight. Proper construction and pavement design are essential for asphalt durability. A quality asphalt project will have a well-graded and compacted sub-base, an adequate thickness (driveways four inches, parking lots five inches), and smooth transition spots that prevent bumping as cars or trucks roll over the new surface. Good drainage is another important aspect that will keep water from pooling on or near the asphalt. Selecting a reputable asphalt paving La Porte IN service is crucial to ensure your investment in your pavement project delivers long-lasting quality and durability. With a trusted provider, you can have confidence that your money will be well-spent, leading to a smooth, resilient surface that stands the test of time.
Energy Efficiency
Asphalt is one of the most energy-efficient pavement materials. It is made from stone (aggregate), sand, additives and liquid bitumen. Bitumen is a thick, dark kind of petroleum that is refined or found in natural deposits.
A previous study indicated that 88% of energy consumption in the life cycle assessment (LCA) of pavements is accounted for by material production. This includes heating aggregates and asphalt mix.
Environmentally Friendly
Asphalt is better for the environment than many people assume. It requires significantly less energy to produce and construct than other paving materials. It also reduces harmful greenhouse gas emissions after its construction. Scientists are developing technologies that allow asphalt to be produced and laid at lower temperatures, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases. Other green asphalt applications include using recycled materials, constructing porous pavements to manage stormwater and using lighter-colored asphalt to reduce the urban heat island effect. When concrete pavements reach the end of their life, they are often rehabilitated with asphalt. This saves energy from hauling the old pavement away, reduces waste material disposal, and reduces the cost of using existing materials. Smooth asphalt surfaces also reduce the amount of fuel vehicles use by lowering friction between tires and roads.
