Asphalt is commonly used for residential and commercial paving projects in the state of Washington. It is an incredibly durable, long-lasting, and attractive paving material that is easy to repair and maintain. All of these benefits make it a great option for homeowners, business owners, and commercial property owners alike.
However, a few myths about asphalt sometimes deter people from choosing it for their driveways and parking lots. As asphalt paving experts, NYS Enterprises is here to debunk the most common asphalt paving myths so you can gain clarity and make the most informed decision for your property. Read on to learn more about nine asphalt paving myths and what the real truth is (from the professionals, of course!).
Myth #1
Asphalt Costs More Than Concrete
Many people wrongly assume that asphalt is a more expensive material than concrete. The reality is that asphalt and concrete are sold at very similar price points, and sometimes asphalt is even more affordable. Also, compared to concrete, asphalt is much easier and cheaper to maintain. If you opt for asphalt, you can save a significant amount of money in the long run.
Myth #2
Asphalt and Concrete Are the Same
Asphalt and concrete are two popular options for driveways and parking lots. But they’re not made the same way, nor do they function the same. In fact, there are several noteworthy differences between the two materials. Asphalt is made with bitumen, which is a binding agent that creates its black color.
Concrete, conversely, mixes a stone aggregate with cement and hardens into a substance that resembles a rock. Due to the way asphalt is made, asphalt is much stronger and resistant to ongoing exposure from external elements. It is also more flexible and much easier to repair. To learn more about the differences between asphalt and concrete, visit here.
Myth #3
Asphalt Isn’t Very Durable
Since asphalt is 100% recyclable, it’s not uncommon for someone to believe it lags behind in the durability department. Believe it or not, recycled asphalt is extremely durable. While it will show signs of wear and tear eventually, just like any other material, it is extremely flexible and will simply bend under stress and fatigue. You can also invest in a quick, affordable, and effective sealing treatment that will increase its strength and durability. Fortunately, asphalt can last for many years without sustaining significant damage or requiring extensive repairs.
Myth #4
Asphalt Doesn’t Require a Foundation
Asphalt, like concrete, must be installed on a strong foundation. This is because an unstable foundation can quickly lead to cracks and potholes. If you choose asphalt for your driveway or parking lot, be sure the contractor knows how to effectively compact and install it so that it stands the test of time. After all, you don’t want to replace asphalt prematurely.
Myth #5
Asphalt is an Outdated Material
More than 94% of paved roads in the U.S. are made of asphalt. There’s a good chance your home or a home in your neighborhood has asphalt. Due to its affordability, durability, lifespan, and appearance, it’s a popular choice for residential and commercial driveways and parking lots. While it’s not right in every situation, asphalt makes sense for many homeowners and business owners. We’re confident in saying that asphalt isn’t going away any time soon.
Myth #6
Asphalt is Only Available in Black
Black asphalt is the most common. However, it’s possible to dye the aggregates in asphalt to align with the aesthetics of different properties. Rest assured that color additives are safe for the environment and can be mixed into just about any hot or cold asphalt mixture. If you’re interested in asphalt but not feeling the black color, you may be able to get asphalt in brown, dark gray, green, and other earthy tones. However, one benefit of its dark black color is it won’t show stains, marks, or spills easily like concrete.
Myth #7
Asphalt is Bad for the Environment
Asphalt is actually good for the environment as it can be recycled into a variety of products and applications. With proper installation and maintenance, it can last up to 20 years or even longer before it’s recycled and reused. According to the Federal Highway Administration, about 75 million tons of asphalt are recycled yearly. When you choose asphalt, you contribute to a greener earth.
Myth #8
Asphalt Is Not Good for Cold Weather
Asphalt performs much better than concrete during bouts of cold temperatures. It doesn’t react poorly to snowmelt chemicals and warms up faster, melting snow and ice quicker than concrete can. It is also much more flexible than concrete and will bend instead of break under stress and freezing temperatures.
Myth #9
Chip Seal is a Viable Alternative to Asphalt
While some property owners think chip seal is a viable alternative to asphalt, it is actually a cheaper, shorter-term solution that does not offer the same benefits. Chip seal is a type of surface treatment that involves a layer of aggregate combined with a layer of asphalt. It is typically sprayed over a road and then rolled into the asphalt.
While chip sealing can be a more cost-effective investment up front, it requires more frequent repairs, repeated re-sealing, and has a shorter lifespan. Furthermore, its rough texture makes it less visually appealing than asphalt. All in all, chip seal may seem like a great alternative to asphalt, but in reality, it is merely a short-term fix instead of a wise long-term investment.
Benefits of Asphalt Pavement
The most noteworthy advantages of asphalt pavement include:
Attractive
Asphalt is aesthetically pleasing and a great way to increase your home or business’s curb appeal.
Durable
As we mentioned above, asphalt is a highly durable material. It can withstand freezing weather and excessive traffic.
Long-Lasting
Asphalt may last up to 20 to 30 years with proper installation and maintenance. It’s a wise long-term investment.
Easy Repairs
In the event of a minor crack or pothole, asphalt can be repaired quickly and inexpensively. Chances are you won’t have to replace or repave entire sections.
Contact NYS Enterprises for Asphalt Paving in Seattle
If you’re interested in an asphalt driveway or parking lot for your property, NYS Enterprises is an invaluable resource. We are experts in asphalt paving and maintenance and are here to serve you. Don’t hesitate to contact us today if you need asphalt paving in the Seattle area.
