FAQs about Paving

Pavement resurfacing (also known as an overlay, asphalt overlay or pavement overlay) is the process of installing a new layer of asphalt over the existing pavement. This new layer is generally 1.5 – 2 inch in depth. Pavement reconstruction is the process of installing both the subgrade asphalt layer as well as the top pavement overlay layer.

When the surface has become heavily oxidized but the base (also known as subgrade) remains in stable condition. The condition of the subgrade can be tested through core-testing when there is any concern or question of what shape it is in.

When there is extensive damage or alligator cracks, it is more effective and cost-efficient to completely reconstruct than to do an overlay.

That depends on many factors as no two paving projects are identical. Factors that determine pavement lifespan include weather patterns, the harshness of winter (freeze-thaw cycles), how many heavy trucks use the pavement in question, the thickness of the new asphalt layer, the exact condition of the subgrade prior to resurfacing and how well the new surface is taken care of through routine maintenance. An average pavement overlay lifespan can be from 8-15 years, depending on the above factors.

This again is dependent on many factors as outlines above for resurfacing. On average, however, with proper routine maintenance a newly reconstructed parking lot or road can last from 15-25 years.

At least a day. Rubber tire traffic will not damage new asphalt but care should be taken to avoid sharp turns, such as turning the wheels on an unmoving vehicle.

Proper drainage conditions are extremely important to consider when resurfacing your pavement. How well does your parking lot drain now? How will this be affected by a new layer of asphalt? As a general rule an asphalt parking lot should have a minimum slope of 1% for water to drain properly. This translates to roughly 1″ of fall for every 10 feet of pavement. This is why edge milling is important: by milling the edges of existing asphalt below the level of adjacent concrete, the new asphalt can be installed at the same level as the concrete, preventing water from becoming trapped between the asphalt and concrete. Without edge milling, the new layer of asphalt will sit one and half to two inches higher than the adjacent concrete, increasing water damage to your pavement while also causing a trip or fall hazard for people.

Resurfacing in cold weather leads to cold “seams” which can contribute to premature deterioration and failure. The general rule of thumb is to pave when temperatures are 50° F and rising.

It is important to implement a pavement maintenance plan and start budgeting for maintenance as soon as new pavement is completed. Due to freeze and thaw cycles some cracks may appear after each winter. Yearly crack filling and routine sealcoating beginning after the 2nd year will keep your pavement in the best possible condition. Additionally, have your catch basins, retention basins and drains inspected and cleaned yearly. Have cracks filled once a year. These two simple yearly maintenance procedures can greatly extend the life of your pavement.

Yes, sometimes. Linear cracks (cracks that form nearly straight lines) can be filled with a hot rubberized sealant. We can also use paving fabric over cracks before resurfacing. Alligator cracks require much more extensive work to fix; if a small area has alligator cracking, it can be fixed prior to resurfacing. If the entire lot has alligator cracking, complete pavement reconstruction (not just resurfacing) is probably needed.

Many engineers specify between 1.5 – 2 inches thick:

A resurface will only be as good as the underlying asphalt core surface. If 25-35% or more of the total parking lot area is in need of substantial removal due to subgrade or other problems, it is generally more economical, and more effective, to completely reconstruct the parking lot.