If you have potholes, large cracks, or depressed areas in your pavement, you’ll want to repair them as soon as possible. If you’re like most people, you may think gravel is the best option. However, the professionals at Capital Paving & Sealcoating encourage you to consider asphalt millings instead.
Asphalt, or pavement, milling is the process of grinding and removing the top layer of the asphalt to prevent it from becoming too high with periodic resurfacing. In addition, this prevents drainage issues and creates space for a new sub-base, if needed. When this is done, the asphalt that is removed isn’t just thrown out, it is recycled and turned into asphalt millings.
Below, we’ll explain why asphalt millings are so popular among contractors in Anne Arundel County.
5 Reasons Asphalt Millings are Popular
Below are the top 5 reasons that asphalt millings are popular:
Reduces project costs
Since asphalt millings are technically waste from previous projects, they are cheaper than new materials. We then pass the savings on to you- our customers- which reduces the overall costs associated with your project.
Eco-friendly
Asphalt is non-biodegradable, which means it will last forever. Therefore, paving new roads and patching existing pavement with asphalt millings is better than gravel. If not used, the millings will simply go to waste and take up valuable space in the landfill. Finally, certain projects qualify for tax credits when using asphalt millings- which serves to further reduce your costs.
Plus, there are several environmental concerns associated with using gravel. For example, gravel mining generates pollution. Also, air quality in the surrounding area is decreased when laying and driving on loose gravel due to the dust being stirred up.
Bonds well
Gravel is not stable for paving roads/parking lots or for filling potholes because it tends to scatter and sinks into the subsurface. Eventually, you find yourself driving on dirt.
On the other hand, blending a combination of acid, polymers, and other ingredients into the millings will rejuvenate the tar to create a smooth, stable surface.
Can withstand wet weather
Some people choose to use crusher run, which is a combo of coarse and fine aggregate, to hold their gravel roads together. Unfortunately, wet weather creates a muddy environment. Another issue is that this material often deteriorates and becomes sandy over time. On the other hand, asphalt millings withstand wet weather because they create a hard surface that won’t deteriorate in water.
Require little to no maintenance
Over time, gravel roads sink and erode, which means the subsurface must be regraded and the gravel must be replenished. However, asphalt millings require little to no maintenance because it gets harder and stronger with exposure to the sun. On average, a surface of asphalt millings can last up to 30 years. Of course, you will want to work with a company that uses high-quality millings, such as Capital Paving & Sealcoating.
Are You Considering Using Asphalt Millings for Your Next Project?
If you need to repair your paved surface and are considering using asphalt millings, contact the professionals at Capital Paving & Sealcoating.
We have been in business since 1956 and have been serving Anne Arundel County for more than 20 years. We have the experience and expertise to complete a variety of paving projects- from paving a full driveway or parking lot to pothole repair. We are proud to be large enough to work on commercial projects, but still small enough that we can maintain the values that we were established under, including offering top-notch customer service.
Regardless of your project goals, you can guarantee that we have what it takes. Contact us today so schedule your consultation and start planning your next paving project.
