If you need a driveway, parking lot, or road, you have probably considered asphalt paving. Asphalt is a wonderful paving material because it is durable and can be laid smooth. Yet you may not have given thought to what asphalt actually is or where it comes from. Here are some fun facts about asphalt. Asphalt Is Natural Asphalt is based on a naturally occurring material called bitumen, which is a tar-like petroleum substance. Natural aggregates such as crushed rock, gravel, or sand are added to the mix. Asphalt Is Ancient Ancient peoples first used natural asphalt for waterproofing. It was used for roads by at least 625 BC, and was an important trade good in ancient Egypt, where it played a role in mummification. Asphalt Is Poured Hot Asphalt is poured hot because at high temperatures, the bitumen flows like a liquid. This allows it to fully coat the aggregate, and to be spread, rolled, and compacted to a smooth, durable surface. Asphalt Is Viscoelastic and Flexible Asphalt is considered a viscoelastic material, as it has properties of both a viscous material and an elastic material. It is flexible and actually moves under heavy loads. Asphalt will generally rebound to its original shape after the load has passed. However, if a very heavy load such as a tractor trailer remains for a long time in high heat, the asphalt could actually become rutted. This means that it is too compacted and can no longer regain its original shape. You can see this sometimes in truck parking lots and near traffic lights that have frequent truck traffic. Not All Asphalt Is the Same Asphalt binders are rated on a lab-tested scale known as the PG scale to determine the temperature range in which the binder performs well. The wider the range the better, but also the more expensive. To increase the range, asphalt plants often add polymers that boost strength and flexibility. Paving Asphalt Must Be Carefully Handled Paving asphalt is generally made in an asphalt plant, where the precise mix of ingredients can be carefully regulated. It is then delivered from the plant to the job site in special asphalt trucks that keep it at the desired temperature. When the trucks arrive at the job site, the drivers slowly lift their truck beds to pour the asphalt. They must take extreme care to pour at just the right rate or the asphalt could cool before it is spread, rolled, and compacted. This is a particular concern during cooler weather, so non-emergency asphalt jobs are not typically performed during the winter months. If an emergency arises during wintry weather, cold patches are available. These will last until a proper repair can be made in the spring, but are not designed to permanently replace hot mix asphalt. Ready to Get Started? Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? Contact TopWest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate.

Asphalt is a sturdy material that can last for years. However, it does need periodic maintenance to keep water out. Water intrusion through small cracks in the driveway’s surface is the number one cause of asphalt failure. As the seasons change, water under the surface freezes and thaws, expanding and contracting and eroding your driveway from the inside out. Fortunately, asphalt cracks are easy to repair when you catch them early. Inspect your asphalt driveway for cracks before and after the winter storm season, and patch them as soon as you find them. You might want to seal the driveway after repairing it to help minimize the risk of future cracking. 1. Prepare the Crack Crack patching works best when the crack is smooth and clean. Put on a pair of safety goggles to protect your eyes, and then: Chip out jagged edges and large broken pieces with a hammer and chisel Remove debris with a wire brush Use a shop vac, compressed air gun, or garden hose to flush out dirt and small debris Make sure the crack is completely dry 2. Fix Smaller Cracks (Up to 1/2 inch) Fixing smaller cracks is quite simple. Here’s what to do: Purchase a rubberized asphalt crack filler from your local hardware or big box store Use a caulk gun to fill the crack with filler, taking care not to spill on the driveway With a trowel or a putty knife, gently smooth out the surface Follow manufacturer instructions for drying time before driving or parking on the patch 3. Fix Larger Cracks (More than 1/2 inch) Fixing larger asphalt cracks is significantly more difficult, and we recommend calling a professional. If you are determined to try, though, here’s what you need to do: Fill the crack with angular crushed gravel until it is no more than 2 inches deep Use a steel tamper or 4x4 post to compact the gravel Pour in a cold-process asphalt repair material. Do NOT use rubberized crack filler Use the tamper or post to compact the material Add and compact more material as needed until the patch is level with the driveway You can drive over the patch in 2 or 3 days, and park on it in 3 or 4 days. Do not seal the driveway or park heavy machinery over the patch for at least 30 days. Place cardboard under any kickstands, and put something under your car to catch any fluid leaks. If your driveway has potholes, deep cracks, or other major damage, do not attempt to repair it yourself. Call a professional with the proper equipment and experience to complete the repair properly and guard against further damage. Based in Abbotsford, Topwest Asphalt also serves Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Maple Ridge. Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? We invite you to call Topwest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!

Although fresh snow creates a beautiful winter wonderland, soon the reality sets in that you have to remove it in order to go about your daily life. Improper snow removal techniques can tear up your driveway, as well as your lawn and sidewalks, so it is important to do it right. Here are some tips for removing snow and ice from asphalt. Be Prepared The time to check on your gear is not after a winter weather emergency. Ideally, before the snow season began, you prepared your asphalt and your snow removal equipment. If not, then check on your equipment now. Whether you use a snow blower, generator, chainsaw, or all three, make sure that when a weather event hits, you will be prepared. Check the owner’s manual to see what type of fuel is recommended. Using the wrong fuel will, at best, affect performance and longevity. At worst, you could void the warranty and permanently damage the engine. Head to the local gas station to purchase the correct fuel. Be sure to choose a product with no more than 10 percent ethanol. Have a gas can of fuel standing by, but drain the equipment’s tank if you do not expect to need it for more than a month. Gas that has not been treated with a fuel stabilizer can deteriorate, potentially making it hard to start the engine or causing the equipment to shut down. In extreme cases, deteriorated gas could even damage the fuel system. Hire Snow Removal If you aren’t the DIY type, snow removal services are relatively inexpensive. Naturally, the price goes up for a heavy accumulation or a very large property, but it may still be the best choice. Make sure you choose a reputable service that will take precautions to protect your property. In addition, it is important to book regular service before the next winter storm. In the aftermath of a major snow event, most companies are booked solid. Take It Easy If you prefer to remove snow yourself, take it a little at a time, and make the investment in a snow blower. Shoveling is tough work, and could put you at risk for a back injury or even a heart attack. Remove small quantities as they accumulate rather than trying to dig out from a massive snowstorm all at once. Even if the snowdrifts are high by the time you reach them, remove one layer at a time. Never use an ice pick, which can be extremely damaging to driveways and sidewalks. If possible, stake off the driveway before a heavy accumulation so that you know exactly what is underneath each area of snow. Try to remove snow from heavily trafficked areas first, as packed snow is far harder to remove. Avoid piling snow on your neighbors’ property or in the street. Be respectful and show common courtesy. Ice Melt Naturally, if you have ice on your asphalt, you will need to de-ice it. There are several products on the market, all with their own pros and cons: Sodium chloride (rock salt): Rock salt is the least expensive option, but it is not as effective in temperatures below 25 F (-4 C). It can also leach into the soil, negatively affecting the chemical balance. Calcium chloride: Calcium chloride works quite well at extreme temperatures of -40 (F or C). It is not considered harmful in reasonable quantities, but it can leave a slippery residue behind. It is more expensive than rock salt, but you can use significantly less at a time. Magnesium chloride: This is a newer option that works well at temperatures below 0 F (-18 C). It is expensive, but a little goes a long way. It melts ice quickly, is biodegradable, and will not harm your home or the environment. Removing snow and ice is never fun. Following these tips, though, can help you protect your asphalt, as well as your landscaping and sidewalks, while taking care of this common winter chore. Based in Abbotsford, Topwest Asphalt also serves Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Maple Ridge. Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? We invite you to call Topwest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!

One of the easiest ways to protect your asphalt driveway is a seal coat. This thin barrier will help your driveway repel water, gas, oil, and other chemicals that could otherwise penetrate and weaken the asphalt. A seal coat typically lasts 2 to 3 years, though it should be inspected annually. Although your asphalt contractor would be happy to apply a seal coat, enterprising DIY types may prefer to tackle the job themselves. Here are the 7 steps to seal an asphalt driveway. 1. Check the Weather A seal coat is useless if it gets wet before it has the chance to cure. Pick a week during which mild, dry weather is predicted. It should only take a day to apply the seal coat and another day for it to cure, but preparing the driveway adds time. Look for a clear weather window that is at least 4-5 days long. 2. Trim and Tape the Edges Cut back all shrubbery that overhangs the driveway. Use an edger to carefully cut the grass along the driveway’s edge. Then use painter’s tape to tape off all surfaces close to the driveway such as brick, gutters, or concrete. 3. Clean the Driveway With a broom or a leaf blower, carefully remove all leaves, dirt, dust, acorns, and debris from the entire surface of the driveway. Use a degreaser to remove oil stains. Pick all weeds that are growing in cracks. Use a pressure washer with a 15-degree tip to thoroughly wash the driveway, and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours. 4. Patch Cracks and Holes If you have small cracks or holes in your driveway, it’s worth the effort to fix them before applying sealant. For cracks smaller than 1/2”, just grab a bottle of crack filler. Gently squeeze it into the crack, taking care not to overfill. If you do, use a scraper to spread and level the excess. Allow the filler to dry for at least 4 hours, or a bit longer in humid weather. If you have bigger cracks or holes, it is best to hire a professional to fix them. 5. Hand-Seal Around Structures Start at the top of the driveway, by the house or garage, and work your way to the street. Use a paintbrush to gently cut in around all structures that meet the driveway, such as the garage or sidewalk. 6. Pour a Line of Sealant Again starting at the top of the driveway, pour a line of sealant the width of the driveway. Use a squeegee at a 45-degree angle to spread the sealant evenly along the surface of the driveway. Watch your pressure. If you push too hard, sealant will work its way over the top of the squeegee. If you push too lightly, you will not achieve an even, thin coating. Work back and forth from one side of the driveway to the other, pouring more sealant as needed and stepping back now and then to check your work. Allow to cure for 24 hours before walking on the driveway, and 72 hours before driving on it. 7. Repeat if Needed If your driveway is old and was not previously sealed, you may need a second coat of sealant. Check the driveway after 24 hours, looking for spots that are thin or uneven. If you see any, repeat the process for an even second coat. Be sure to allow the second coat to dry for 24 hours before walking on it, and 72 hours before driving on it. Based in Abbotsford, Topwest Asphalt also serves Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Maple Ridge. Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? We invite you to call Topwest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!

Although installing a new asphalt driveway requires specialized training and equipment that puts the job out of reach for virtually all DIY enthusiasts, it is still useful to know what the process is. A detailed understanding of what is involved will help you read your estimate and keep an eye on the progress of the job. Here are the 6 steps to build a new asphalt driveway. 1. Demolition If you have an existing driveway, regardless of its material, it must be demolished before new installation can begin. Look for forklifts, dump trucks, and other heavy machinery. The pieces are then hauled away for recycling. 2. Grading The biggest source of damage to asphalt driveways is water, which can cause cracking, heaving, and even potholes. To guard against water intrusion, we will carefully grade the soil as needed to ensure proper runoff. 3. Subbase Next, we will install and compact a durable, long-lasting, aggregate subbase. Ranging from 4 to 8 inches in thickness, depending on the type of soil you have, this subbase acts as a frost barrier and provides a solid, stable support for the new asphalt. Aggregate comes in a variety of thicknesses, and multiple types may be used depending on your needs. 4. Binder With the subbase down and settled, a binder of large aggregate and oil is laid on top. This adds strength and durability to the finished driveway. 5. New Asphalt The process of pouring and compacting the new asphalt goes surprisingly quickly. Hot mix asphalt remains at a high temperature in the truck, but must be smoothed and compacted before it loses its warmth and pliability. A mix of small aggregate, oil, and sand, the asphalt will settle into a hard, shiny, smooth, durable, and attractive surface. 6. Curing Although your new driveway will be poured and compacted in a matter of hours, it is not yet ready to use. Wait at least 24 hours before walking on the driveway, 72 hours before driving or parking on it, and 30 days before parking any large, heavy equipment on it. Your driveway will take a full year to completely cure, so try to avoid gas or oil spills and place a piece of wood or cardboard underneath any bicycle or motorcycle kickstands. Seal coating your driveway every one to two years can help protect it from damage or water intrusion, extending its life and keeping the asphalt looking its best. Very few DIYers have access to the heavy equipment that is required to properly install a driveway. However, it is important to know the process in order to keep an eye on the job’s progression. If you have any questions at any time, don’t hesitate to ask! Based in Abbotsford, Topwest Asphalt also serves Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Maple Ridge. Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? We invite you to call Topwest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!

The function and appearance of your home’s driveway contribute a lot to its overall curb appeal. A broken and damaged driveway not only looks terrible, but it could even damage your tires or those of your guests. Every so often, then, you’ll have to replace it. There are many ways to install an asphalt driveway. You can try to do it yourself, hire a handyman, or rely on a professional asphalt installation company. The quality of the installation will depend on who you choose. Here are some differences between the right way and the wrong way to install asphalt that dramatically impact the quality of the finished driveway. Right Way: Removing Existing Driveway To properly install a new asphalt driveway, it’s imperative to remove all of the existing driveway to create a flat surface. This is true whether the existing driveway is made of asphalt or some other surface, such as pea gravel. This will give your new driveway the best chance of staying intact the longest. Wrong Way: Paving Over Existing Driveway Some contractors or DIY kits suggest paving your new asphalt driveway over your existing driveway, as it will save time and could potentially lower the cost. However, this is a terrible idea, as installing an asphalt driveway over an uneven surface weakens its structure. It is worth the time and effort to remove all of the existing driveway before installation. Right Way: Letting the Base Settle Underneath a properly installed asphalt driveway is a base, usually constructed of soil and crushed rock. This base is important for drainage, among other construction-related concerns. It takes time for the base to settle properly to be able to install asphalt over it. It’s important to allow this time. Wrong Way: Rushing to Put on Asphalt For some contractors, installing the highest number of driveways is a priority because it maximizes their profitability. This often leads to substandard installation jobs that don’t last. If your contractor doesn’t give the base time to settle and instead rushes to install the asphalt surface, he or she is prioritizing profits over the quality of your installation job. Right Way: Relying on a Professional Contractor For the best results, you want to hire a professional asphalt installation company or contractor. Installing smooth and lasting asphalt takes expertise and experience gained from many asphalt projects. Don’t skimp so much that it impacts the quality of your finished driveway. Wrong Way: Buying a DIY Patching Kit In some cases, DIY asphalt patching is sufficient. This is true when you have only small cracks that have not been left alone long enough to allow water intrusion. Once the cracks are larger, though, or your driveway has developed potholes or overall unevenness, the time has passed for DIY patching. At this point, you need to call in an expert. It is still possible that your driveway may be repairable, depending on its condition, but only with professional equipment and expertise. Get a reliable asphalt contractor to assess the situation and perform the work correctly. Do you need a professional asphalt installation company to replace your driveway? Call TopWest Asphalt at 1-800-ASPHALT to schedule your driveway installation project.

Both summer rains and winter snowstorms can wreak havoc on your asphalt. Proper maintenance and storm preparation can help to minimize the risk of damage, but sooner or later you will likely need some repairs. Here are 5 tips for fixing your asphalt after a storm. 1. Treat Minor Problems If you have maintained your asphalt and prepared it for storm season, you may find only minimal damage even after a severe storm. Treat minor cracks, divots, and depressions immediately, as these problems can worsen over time. Crack filling and skin patching are inexpensive ways to nip minor issues in the bud. 2. Dig-Out Patching If your asphalt is too badly damaged for minor crack filling or skin patching, dig-out patching may be the solution. As the name suggests, this type of repair involves digging out the damaged section and replacing it with new asphalt. It is a more extensive repair than crack filling, but far less complex or expensive than complete resurfacing or replacement. 3. Resurfacing If your asphalt takes extensive damage, you might assume that it needs to be entirely replaced. Yet in most cases, resurfacing can take care of the problem. This involves completely removing the top layers of asphalt, patching any structurally damaged areas, and then pouring a new surface. This can add many years to the lifespan of the asphalt at a significantly lower cost than total replacement. 4. Edge repairs In some cases, the asphalt itself is fine, or can be easily repaired, but heavy rain or snow may cause unevenness or separation along the edges. Any gaps between the asphalt and related structures such as sidewalks can provide an entry point for water that could erode the asphalt from below. Milling and wedging can fill in these gaps, creating smooth, even transition points that do not permit water intrusion. 5. Attention to Detail After you assess the structural quality of your asphalt, and make repairs if needed, it is time to take a look at the details. Pavement markings, signage, speed bumps, and other details must be carefully assessed and redone if needed. Heavy precipitation can wreak havoc on even the best-laid asphalt. However, proper maintenance and preparation can help to minimize the damage. Once the storm passes, it is important to assess the asphalt as soon as possible and make any needed repairs. Asphalt damage tends to worsen over time, so the sooner you take care of simple problems, the less likely they are to become serious issues. Complete structural failure is unlikely after the first storm, but the risks increase with each subsequent storm if previous damage is not repaired. Based in Abbotsford, Topwest Asphalt also serves Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Maple Ridge. Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? We invite you to call Topwest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!

New asphalt can be an elegant and highly practical solution for many applications. Whether you want to replace a gravel driveway, build a new parking lot, or turn a dirt road into a finished one, new paving can be an excellent choice. However, although properly laid asphalt is durable enough to withstand extreme weather conditions with minimal damage, it must be given enough time to cure before being exposed to those conditions. Here are the weather factors you must consider when timing your new paving services. Temperature “Hot mix” asphalt is mixed at a temperature of approximately 104 to 121 C, and transported to the job site in a heated truck that maintains this temperature. It must be poured, spread, and compacted before it drops below approximately 85 C. In warm weather, this is easy. In wintry weather, though, the temperature of the asphalt starts to drop quickly as soon as it leaves the truck. This causes it to thicken, making it difficult to properly pour and spread. It might even harden before it is compacted. The temperature of the ground also matters, as pouring asphalt onto a frozen surface could cause the embedded aggregates to break out of the binder. The minimum recommended temperature for placing the base layer of asphalt is a ground temperature of at least 5 C. Upper layers have a minimum recommended ground temperature of 10 C. For best results, though, it is ideal to wait until the ambient air temperature is at least 20 C. Precipitation Precipitation can mean anything from a light mist to a downpour, so it is important to break down the term. While it is not advisable to start paving during any sort of precipitation, a light drizzle that begins during the job and does not cause puddling is not typically a concern. Heavier precipitation, though, could have impacts that must be considered: Cooling: Rain causes the asphalt mix to cool more rapidly. At high ambient temperatures, rain may not be as important, but it can definitely affect the results on a cooler day. Bonding: The various layers of asphalt must bond tightly together, and significant moisture could disturb that process. Your asphalt contractor will carefully monitor the situation, including the temperature of the asphalt mix and the compaction process. If rain becomes too heavy, the project will be halted until conditions clear. Standing Water Standing water is a significant hindrance to the paving process. Even small puddles quickly turn to steam when hot mix asphalt is poured on top of them. This can cause the binder to separate from the aggregate in a process known as stripping. If puddles are present, whether it is actively raining or not, your contractor will wait until they evaporate before proceeding. Based in Abbotsford, Topwest Asphalt also serves Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Maple Ridge. Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? We invite you to call Topwest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!

If your asphalt has developed a pothole, it is only natural to want to fix it as soon as possible. Potholes can cause damage to vehicles, and a deep pothole could even cause an accident. In addition, small potholes can worsen if they are not addressed quickly. However, while emergency repairs can be performed anytime, full repairs should wait for warm weather. Here are 3 reasons to repair potholes in spring. Temperature Temperature matters when it comes to asphalt. “Hot mix” asphalt is kept in a well-mixed liquid state inside a heated truck. When the weather is warm, it will remain in its liquid form long enough to pour it, spread it, and level it off. It will then harden gradually to form a tight seal and a durable surface. When the weather is cold, though, asphalt begins to cool and thicken as soon as it leaves the trucks, which can lead to uneven pouring. It may begin to harden before it is completely spread and leveled. In addition, frozen ground can cause the embedded aggregates to loosen and break free. It is likely that the pothole patch will not be tight and even, which could allow water intrusion and even lead to a new pothole in the same spot. Precipitation Showery weather is fairly common during the spring, but snow and heavy rain are rare. Asphalt repairs can be done in light drizzle without any damaging effects. Heavy precipitation, though, can cause the asphalt to cool too quickly or even lead to water buildup within the deeper layers of the new asphalt. Spring is an ideal time for repairs since rains are usually light and brief. Winter Weather Damage Winter weather is tough on asphalt. It expands and contracts during cycles of freezing and thawing, and significant snow accumulation can further weaken the asphalt’s structure. Cracking and water intrusion are extremely common. Odds are good that if your asphalt has developed a pothole, there are most likely other areas that are less severely damaged. Performing your pothole repairs during the spring also gives you the opportunity to assess the rest of the asphalt for cracks or holes that should be addressed. Cold patch asphalt is applied directly from the container without the need for heating, so it is a great short-term fix for potholes that develop during the winter. However, it is generally not the best long-term solution. If you used a cold patch to get you through the season, spring is an excellent time to have it replaced with durable hot mix asphalt that is designed to last. Based in Abbotsford, Topwest Asphalt also serves Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Maple Ridge. Are you ready to start your next asphalt project with a team you can count on to do the job right, on time, and on budget? We invite you to call Topwest Asphalt today at 1-800-ASPHALT to discuss your project and schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!

Just like you probably give little thought to the air you breathe, you probably spend little to no time thinking about the makeup of your driveway. In both cases, though, once a problem arises (you’re wheezing or gasping for air – or you’re jostled by potholes or bothered by cracks or pesky stains you can’t get rid of) your attention shifts. You come to appreciate that which you’ve taken for granted! Let’s take a closer look at the latter: Your driveway. If you’re suddenly spending time thinking about it, you’re probably contemplating have it refinished. (Or, maybe you’ve decided to pave a brand new driveway where one didn’t exist before.) In either scenario, you have one key decision to make: Should you go with asphalt or should you go with concrete? Asphalt: America’s Paving Material of Choice The more than 3,500 asphalt plants in the United States produce approximately 30 million tons of asphalt each year. The vast majority of paved roads (92%) are covered with asphalt. Why is asphalt the material of choice for America’s roadways? One major reason is that it costs up to 40% less than concrete. Asphalt also can withstand the most punishing traffic, lasts up to 20 years with regular preventive maintenance, is smoother than concrete, and is ready for traffic shortly after it has been applied. Concrete must cure for a long period of time. Asphalt is the material of choice for our nation’s transportation infrastructure — and is the ideal choice for your driveway. Asphalt is A Quick, Cost-effective Way to Restore Your Driveway If you want to rejuvenate an existing driveway that’s cracking, pitting, flaking, or stained, you have two options. You can hire a crew to jackhammer your existing surface, haul away the debris, and pour a new concrete slab. Or, you can hire an asphalt paving service to install an asphalt overlay. An asphalt contractor will deposit a layer of hot asphalt about one or two inches thick over an existing surface that has degraded over time. The asphalt is immediately spread, rolled, and compacted while it’s still hot. Once it cools and dries, your driveway will look brand new, yet cost a fraction of the initial paving job. Depending on season (asphalt cures more quickly in warm temperatures), an asphalt driveway may be ready to use in as little as two days. (Concrete, on the other hand, may take a week to cure.) An Asphalt Driveway is Easier to Maintain than A Concrete Driveway Have you ever taken a walk through your neighborhood and stumbled over cracking, buckling sidewalks? Most sidewalks are paved with poured concrete. When they crack or crumble, there’s little that can be done to repair them besides hiring a concrete company to pour more concrete. The same is true of concrete driveways. If you have an asphalt driveway that eventually begins to show signs of cracking, you can repair it quickly and inexpensively on your own with widely available, easy-to-apply sealants available at most home improvement retailers. Asphalt is More Durable than Concrete The durability of any concrete surface is highly dependent on proper installation. Concrete must be prepared with the correct ratios of ingredients, or it won’t set properly. Additionally, concrete will degrade over time if it is subjected to deicing salts applied in cold climates. The salt infiltrates the porous surface and eventually causes a condition called “spalling,” which causes the top layer of the driveway to flake off. Asphalt doesn’t flake, and can stand up to salts and other harsh materials. Unlike concrete, asphalt flexes and is able to better withstand temperature extremes. The expansion in the heat of summer and the contraction during the chill of winter will, over time, cause concrete to weaken and crack. Asphalt Driveways are Black: That’s Beneficial for Two Key Reasons A major complaint that homeowners have with their concrete driveways is that they stain easily. Motor oil, spills, crushed tree debris … over time a concrete driveway becomes discolored and dirty. A black asphalt driveway hides stains, naturally! Additionally, the rich, black hue simply looks more sophisticated than concrete and aesthetically complements the exterior of most homes. Another benefit of asphalt’s dark color is that it retains the sun’s heat. If you live in a cold climate with snowy, icy winters, you’ll appreciate the fact that snow will melt more quickly and ice will form more slowly on asphalt. Your driveway will be safer, and you’ll have less snow to shovel! If you are ready to give your driveway a makeover, or pave a brand new driveway, asphalt is longer-lasting and more cost-effective than concrete. When you choose asphalt, your driveway will be functional and reliable and eventually blend into the background where it belongs. After all, you have more important things to occupy your thoughts! Contact TopWest Asphalt today at 604-755-0300 to arrange a quote.

The winter season is harsh on your home’s exterior. Snow and ice may damage paint, concrete, and asphalt. To prevent long term damage and to reduce repair costs, it is critical to maintain the exterior of your home. For those with asphalt driveways, pathways, or more, here's how to maintain your asphalt throughout the winter. Avoid Using Salt, When Possible Salt is efficient at breaking up the snow and making roads quickly driveable. It’s available for commercial and residential applications where snow removal is needed. Whenever possible, though, avoid using salt on your asphalt. On roads that are frequently re-paved, any damage caused by the salt will be repaired by the city as part of their maintenance costs. For homes and small businesses, it’s best to avoid asphalt damage. Skipping the use of salt or other chemically-based snow removal techniques will help preserve the condition of your asphalt. Ensure Plow Blades Don’t Hit Asphalt If plow blades hit asphalt or concrete, the pressure can cause cracks or holes to form. If you’re planning on using your own snow plow to remove snow, make sure that you avoid accidentally hitting the asphalt with sharp snow plow blades. If you’re hiring a contractor to plow the asphalt, make sure that they are careful to ensure that there’s no damage. Seal Asphalt in Fall One of the most effective strategies to maintain asphalt in the winter is to take care of it in the fall, spring, and summer. In the fall, you should have professional contractors seal or repair any existing damage to your asphalt before the first signs of snow. Weakened asphalt has less of a chance of withstanding the winter without damage. In this case, investing in preventative maintenance in the fall is cheaper and more effective in the long run than re-paving the asphalt in the spring. Keep Snow and Debris Away Throughout the winter, it’s important to keep snow and debris off of asphalt as much as possible to prevent the weight of the snow or debris from damaging the asphalt. While it’s likely not possible to completely avoid having snow on your asphalt at all times, you should aim to regularly remove snow build up whenever possible. Before the winter season, you can plan to remove trees and hedges located near asphalt to prevent related debris. Hire a Professional Snow Plowing Service The easiest way you can remove snow and maintain your asphalt during the winter is to hire a professional snow plowing service. Depending on the frequency of their service, you may be able to regularly rely on the professional service to keep asphalt clear of snow without having to shovel anything yourself. Just make sure to ask plenty of questions about the service and look for positive reviews online. Maintaining your asphalt is the best way to prevent the need for re-paving it. This includes regular sealing, preventative maintenance, and making small repairs quickly instead of letting them escalate. If you need any of these services, please contact TopWest Asphalt at info@topwestasphalt.com.