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Asphalt is often an ideal material for driveways, parking lots, and other such surfaces. Benefits asphalt offers include: Durability Affordability Easy maintenance However, not all asphalt is exactly the same. The type of asphalt one might use for a commercial property isn’t always the same as the asphalt a contractor might recommend for a home. The best way to learn more about your options is to discuss the topic in greater detail with an asphalt paving contractor. They can help you select the right type of asphalt for your needs. In the meantime, differences between commercial and residential asphalt of which you should be aware include the following: Durability An asphalt parking lot at a busy shop or other such business will see much more foot traffic (and vehicular traffic!) than any type of paved surface on a residential property. Thus, commercial asphalt tends to be more durable than residential asphalt. Cost Commercial asphalt jobs usually cost more than residential jobs. There are several reasons this is the case. First, the durable asphalt that might be ideal for a commercial property may cost more than the type of asphalt that’s best for one’s driveway or backyard walkway. In addition, commercial property asphalt paving jobs usually involve covering larger areas than residential projects require. On top of that, commercial jobs may have strict timelines that influence the cost. Maintenance There’s no universal answer to the question of whether commercial or residential asphalt requires more maintenance. True, commercial grade asphalt is more durable. Because residential grade asphalt is less durable and easier to damage, one might assume it would require more maintenance than commercial asphalt. However, the significant wear-and-tear that a commercial surface goes through can influence its upkeep needs. In addition, because some commercial-grade asphalt is often reinforced for strength and durability, it may have unique maintenance needs that exceed those of residential asphalt. Discuss this topic with an asphalt contractor. They can help you better understand the maintenance needs of different types of asphalt based on the way you plan to use them. Aesthetics Different varieties and grades of asphalt may have different appearances. Often, residential asphalt is more versatile and can be more aesthetically-pleasing than commercial asphalt. Priorities determine which type of asphalt is ideal when accounting for this factor. Many homeowners choose a grade of asphalt that will look best on their properties, as they don’t need a particularly durable form of asphalt that might be better-suited to commercial uses. On the other hand, a business owner trying to accommodate a large number of daily guests might choose a commercial-grade asphalt for their parking lot, even if there may be more attractive styles available. Choosing Residential or Commercial Asphalt: Factors to Consider Account for the following when determining what type of asphalt is right for your needs: The type of surface you’re paving The volume of traffic the surface sees on a daily basis Your budget Your ability and willingness to stay on top of maintenance Curb appeal Most importantly, don’t let the process of choosing a grade of asphalt overwhelm you. Speak with a paving contractor to learn more about the pros and cons of different grades. By consulting with an expert, you’ll find it’s much easier to determine what type of asphalt is best for your property. Contact Asphalt Paving Contractors Today At TopWest Asphalt Ltd., serving both commercial and residential clients, we’d be happy to help you choose the right style of asphalt for your project. Learn more about what we can do for you by contacting us online or calling us at 604 755 0300.

Removing snow and ice from the asphalt surfaces of your property may be a task you dread every winter. Luckily, the process doesn’t need to be as cumbersome as you might expect. This guide offers a few tips for simplifying the process of removing ice and snow. Keep these tips in mind as the winter weather moves in. The Importance of Removing Snow and Ice from Your Asphalt Surfaces If snow and ice have accumulated on your driveway, parking lot, and other such asphalt surfaces, removal should be among your top priorities. Removing snow and ice from your asphalt surfaces doesn’t merely boost your own safety—it also boosts the safety of anyone else on the property. The law may require you, as a property owner, to address hazards like snow and ice in a timely manner. You could be the target of a lawsuit if someone were to injure themselves on your property in a slip and fall accident because you failed to remove snow and ice properly. In addition, allowing ice and snow to remain on your asphalt for long periods of time could result in damage to the asphalt. That doesn’t need to happen! Tips for removing snow and ice from asphalt include: Shovel Start with the basics. Depending on how much snow has already accumulated, beginning the removal process with shoveling may be best. Once you’ve shoveled some of the heavier snow away, you can begin attempting other methods to remove the ice and snow that you could not remove with a shovel. Apply a Deicing Agent Do you live or own a property in an area that may be prone to relatively harsh winter weather? If so, stock up on rock salt or similar deicing agents before the winter season begins. Apply these products to your asphalt surfaces to melt ice after you’ve shoveled any snow atop the ice layers. (Tip: Don’t let rock salt or similar deicing agents come into contact with your pets, kids, or your plants. Carefully read the instructions to confirm you’re using the product correctly.) Spray Rubbing Alcohol No worries if you don’t have any rock salt or other such deicing agents on hand. An alternative in this scenario is to fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol and spray your asphalt surfaces. After about half an hour, the rubbing alcohol should have loosened the ice. You may now shovel it away more easily than you could before. Install Space Heaters If a winter storm isn’t particularly severe, this tip may prove effective as a means of limiting the accumulation of ice and snow in the first place. Safely installing space heaters in strategic spots in the outdoor sections of your property can help prevent snow and ice from building up. Although they might not stop snow and ice from accumulating entirely, they can minimize the amount that does accumulate, making the removal process easier. Learn About Asphalt Repair Services Again, removing ice and snow is key to protecting your asphalt from damage this winter. That said, if your asphalt does sustain any harm over the years, it may be possible to restore it to its original condition. At Topwest Asphalt Ltd., offering paving solutions in Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, Maple Ridge, and Abbotsford, our asphalt repair team is on hand to help when your asphalt has seen better days. Find out what we can do for you by contacting us online or calling us at 604 755 0300.

Asphalt is a common paving material. It's the hard black surface you see on most major roads and highways, as well as parking lots and driveways. It is the preferred material for paving due to many benefits, including aesthetics and durability. One of the characteristics of asphalt is that it is affected by heat. It is able to expand and contract with changes in temperature, which is both beneficial and detrimental. Learn how heat affects asphalt so that you can prevent damage to your asphalt surfaces. What is Asphalt? Asphalt is made up of aggregates (rocks, sand, gravel) and petroleum. The petroleum is made into a sticky substance called bitumen that blends with the aggregates to form a malleable material that is laid down and steamrolled to make a smooth surface. Once it dries and hardens it will stay solid for many years. The Effects of Heat on Asphalt The petroleum portion of asphalt is affected by heat and cold. When it heats up it expands and when it cools down it contracts. This frequent expanding and contracting can eventually cause the asphalt to become weak and develop cracks. Temperatures above 90 degrees cause significant expansion of asphalt, which can occur often in the summertime. Then when it cools down it contracts, such as after a rainstorm. When the contraction is quick, there is a higher chance of damage to the asphalt, such as cracking or buckling. How to Prevent Heat Damage to Asphalt What can you do to prevent heat damage to your asphalt surface? The first line of defense is sealcoating. Applying a layer of sealcoating every 1-3 years can protect your asphalt from heat damage. Sealing asphalt prevents it from drying out and becoming brittle by keeping it well lubricated. The sealcoat seals in the natural moisture of the petroleum in asphalt. This holds it together and allows it to expand and contract without damage. How to Repair Heat Damage to Asphalt If your asphalt is already damaged, there are ways to repair it. There are 4 levels of asphalt repair: Crack sealing. Small cracks are relatively easy to repair. Cracks can be filled with a sealing material that prevents moisture from seeping into the sublayers of the asphalt. Asphalt repair. When cracks are large or deep, or if the asphalt is buckled or has potholes, then the asphalt needs to be repaired. This may involve removing some of the top layer of asphalt in certain spots and patching it with new asphalt. Asphalt resurfacing. When a significant portion of the asphalt is damaged, it may need to be resurfaced. This involves scraping the top layer of asphalt off the entire surface and laying down a whole new layer on top. Asphalt replacement. Extensive damage to the asphalt and the sublayers below may require complete asphalt replacement. This means the asphalt is broken up and removed, the sublayers are repaired, and new asphalt is laid. Asphalt Can Be Made For All Temperatures Although temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 Celsius) are more likely to cause damage to asphalt, there are different types of asphalt that can withstand hotter temperatures. Asphalt can be manufactured specifically for the weather in the area where it will be laid. This minimizes the effects of weather on asphalt surfaces. Prevent or Repair Asphalt Damage With TopWest Asphalt TopWest asphalt provides a wide range of asphalt maintenance and repair services for residential and commercial properties. We can apply sealcoating to your driveway to protect it from the damaging effects of fluctuating temperatures. If your asphalt already shows signs of damage, we can provide the necessary repairs to restore the condition of your asphalt. TopWest asphalt can help you get the maximum number of years out of your asphalt surfaces. Call 604-755-0300 or contact us today to learn more and schedule a free estimate.

Let us peel back the mystery of asphalt and uncover its durability and versatility. We will learn its composition, starting with rocks and progressing to the final product that paves our roads. The extraction of raw materials begins the process that creates the asphalt that enables our transportation network.This uncelebrated material is the hidden hero that facilitates our movement. Keep reading to learn more. The Composition of Asphalt At first glance, asphalt appears to be nothing more than a mundane black material. However, its composition is far more intricate than its dull exterior would suggest. Asphalt consists primarily of three key ingredients that work in harmony to create a robust and adaptable substance capable of withstanding vehicular traffic. The backbone of asphalt is formed by aggregates, which make up the bulk of the mixture. Aggregates refer to the combination of rocks, minerals, and other sturdy materials that provide strength and stability. The specific aggregates used can vary in dimension, form, and makeup depending on the desired attributes of the final asphalt product. Common sources of aggregates include crushed stone, sand, gravel, and slag. Binding the aggregates together is a petroleum-derived adhesive called bitumen, also known as asphalt cement. Bitumen gives asphalt its iconic black coloration. This thick, sticky substance oozes from oil refineries and boasts unmatched binding capabilities. When blended with aggregates, bitumen envelops the particles to produce a cohesive compound that can be molded and compressed into road surfaces. Finally, fillers occupy the spaces between aggregates to enhance the performance of the asphalt. Fillers usually consist of fine particles like limestone dust, fly ash, or hydrated lime. They improve the workability and long-term durability of asphalt by making it more resistant to cracking and deformation from vehicular loads. The combination of aggregates, bitumen, and fillers creates a robust paving material critical to modern transportation infrastructure. Different Types of Asphalt Additives and Their Functions Beyond its primary ingredients, various additives can be incorporated into asphalt to enhance properties and address challenges. These additives improve performance, durability and sustainability. Polymer additives boost flexibility and durability. They modify the binder, enhancing resistance to cracking and deformation. Polymer-modified asphalt also better withstands aging and temperature changes. Fibers reinforce asphalt, increasing tensile strength and crack resistance. Fiber-reinforced asphalt performs well under heavy loads and truck traffic. Warm mix additives lower production and placement temperatures, reducing energy use, emissions, and thermal damage. They also improve workability for easier construction and compaction. Recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) conserves resources as a substitute for aggregates or binder modifiers. RAP provides similar performance to virgin materials while reducing environmental impact. Asphalt Paving Services in Vancouver & Surrey Asphalt is far more than a simple black road covering - it is a fascinating, complex material that is crucial to transportation systems. This composition of aggregates, binders, and fillers has been paving our way for centuries, providing smooth, safe driving surfaces. If you want to learn more about our asphalt services, contact us at 604-755-0300 to schedule a free estimate.

We all rely on roads every single day – but have you ever given any thought to how a road is built? Are you in need of one, but have no idea what the process looks like?It is easy to think that you just clear the space and press the asphalt. But, the truth is, there is a lot more involved than just laying down some asphalt. In fact, it takes a lot of careful planning and assessing before physical labor ever begins. Whether you are in the market for a new roadway or parking lot - or you are just satisfying a curiosity - here is the step-by-step process for road building. Step One: The Planning Phase You absolutely cannot jump into road building without a plan. Building a road is more than making the decision to do so. There are so many different things that need to be decided in order to successfully reach the end product. To give you a better idea, here are just a few of the many things that go into planning. You will need to: Address any permit concerns Decide on the material you would like to use Review terrain or environmental issues Make sure that all utilities are clear for the road to be built Most importantly, you will want to feel confident in the team you hired to get the job done. Step Two: The Design Phase Designing the road is next. A survey of the area will offer insight into the terrain, location, drainage ability, potential traffic (including the type of traffic), environmental impacts, and so on. This is the time when you look at the current situation and the future. How will this road impact the area, including the residents that live nearby? Is the area set to have major growth in the near future? If so, will the size of the road be able to handle the traffic? All of this is so important to consider when designing a road. And, it is important to get input from all professionals in the field. Step Three: Construction Commences Often referred to as earthwork , there is a lot that needs to be done to the road the asphalt joins the party. After all, building a solid and stable foundation is of the utmost importance for a road’s longevity. So what are the steps in creating the foundation? It will vary based on each project, but this should give you a general idea: An embankment is created The dirt is leveled and heavy machinery is used to create a smooth surface Using water, the soil is even more compacted so that it is denser and better equipped to handle the roadway without sinking Drains and sewers have to be installed so that drainage water and sewage are properly carried away without disrupting the road This step in the process is a tedious one and constantly involves checks and inspections before moving on. Any small mishap will have to be addressed before it can be ready to move on to the next step. Step Four: Paving It is time for the asphalt! This is the moment everyone has been waiting for as it means that the road is almost ready. The key is to work with a team that is highly experienced in paving so that you know it will be properly leveled and spread evenly along the foundation. You want the end product to look as good as it is strong and durable. Step Five: Test for Quality Last but not least, you never leave a project without checking it for quality. After it has time to set, any last-minute road markings are placed and drainage is tested. If everything checks out, it will be safe to open the roadway for travelers. Want to Learn More About Road Building? If you are interested in learning more about road building or how it can enhance your project, Topwest Asphalt LTD offers residential and commercial paving, asphalt grading, parking lot paving, and more. Contact us today at 1-800-ASPHALT.

Encountering areas of standing water on pavement can be inconvenient - but it can also be dangerous for the asphalt. Unfortunately, in an area that is not properly graded - or that has worn down over time - dips and other uneven areas can easily occur, putting the asphalt in jeopardy.Rainy situations are a reminder of why grading is so important. But how does it work? And what exactly is asphalt grading? What is Asphalt Grading? Asphalt grading is a method of ensuring parking lots, driveways, roadways, and sidewalks are entirely level. A primary reason this is addressed is so that water will not puddle in a rainy situation, but rather properly drain and shed. A level surface can reduce the chance that water will stand, And asphalt grading goes a step further to ensure runoff. Depending on the roadway, it may be slightly higher in the middle so that it can slope. It doesn’t take much elevation to make this happen so any special grading is not usually very noticeable at all. How Asphalt Grading Works One of the first steps that must be done in the creation of a roadway involves creating a subgrade. While this may vary, it typically consists of about 3 to 6 inches of tightly packed stone aggregate material, such as gravel. Compacted, this creates a solid and firm foundation on which the asphalt will be placed. The asphalt is then sloped appropriately so that water cannot pool, but rather drain. To do this, a slight pitch of about ½ inch is all that is needed. Known as asphalt crowning, this creates a high point in the middle so that the slope and runoff can easily be created as a proactive means of protection. Not every roadway requires crowning, but it is always an option that can be used if necessary. Factors that Impact Asphalt Grading There are a few things that can impact the overall process of asphalt grading. Understanding the area and the terrain, as well as taking into consideration any nearby drains/sewers and structures is vital for success. The following factors play a role: The type of soil found at the site that needs to hold the gravel and asphalt The type of erosion control The overall density of the site The Importance of Asphalt Grading One of the most important reasons for asphalt grading is to avoid standing water. Nobody wants to have to step around puddles, drive through them, or end up getting wet because of them. So having a level ground can be convenient. But the need for asphalt grading is even bigger than this. While every day rain puddles will dissipate as quickly as they came, standing water can be dangerous for asphalt. When a road isn’t properly graded, standing water can stick around. It will begin to seep into the asphalt and then into the roadway’s foundation. This leads to degradation and instability – and eventually cracking, potholes, indents, and more. Even the tiniest cracks can lead to major problems in the future. Proper asphalt grading allows you to maintain control over where the water goes, ensuring it drains from the roadway - and away from any structures. Asphalt Grading at TopWest Asphalt Ltd. If you want to give your asphalt the greatest chance for longevity, then you need the right .team of experts on your side. At TopWest Asphalt Ltd. , professional asphalt paving is what we do. And that means you can expect the perfect grade to keep your pavement puddle free. Contact us at 604-755-0300 to schedule a free estimate.

Asphalt is the dark black type of pavement you see on roads, parking lots, and driveways. It is one of the most commonly used pavement materials because it is durable and the process of laying asphalt is relatively quick. However, one pitfall of asphalt pavement is that it is capable of heaving, or buckling. When this happens it can cause bumps and cracks in the pavement that could be potential hazards. Why does asphalt heave in the summer? Here’s the cause and how to get damaged asphalt repaired. Heat Expansion One of the biggest benefits of asphalt can also be a potential problem at times. Asphalt is somewhat flexible, meaning it expands and contracts with changing temperatures. This allows it to fluctuate without cracking in many cases. However, when the asphalt becomes really hot from extreme summer temperatures, it can start to somewhat melt or soften enough to be easily damaged by traffic. All it takes is a heavy truck on a sweltering summer day to cause asphalt to buckle. UV Rays From the Sun When the sun shines directly on the asphalt on a hot day, the UV rays can take their toll on the pavement. They cause the different oils in the asphalt to break down and mix together in a way that compromises the integrity of the pavement. As it loses its elasticity, it is more prone to cracking and buckling. Water Under the Pavement When there is moisture under the pavement and the hot sun heats the asphalt, the water underneath it can get hot enough to turn into steam. This causes the asphalt to heave and possibly crack. Another problem that occurs when there is water under asphalt that gets hot from the sun is that the pavement sort of rolls or slides on the water, which causes it to buckle. What To Do About Buckled Asphalt If you have places in your parking lot or driveway that have heaved, buckled, or cracked, you should get those spots repaired. In many cases the pavement can be repaired in just the places where the asphalt has heaved, unless there is extensive damage that would require complete resurfacing. In the case of moisture under the asphalt, the sublayers may also need to be repaired or replaced. How to Prevent Heat/Sun Damage to Your Asphalt The best way to prevent heaving due to heat or sun damage is to keep your asphalt well sealcoated. Asphalt sealing is recommended every 1-3 years depending on the amount of traffic and the condition of your pavement. The sealant provides protection for your asphalt in the following ways: Reflects the sun. Sealcoating reflects the sun off of the pavement to prevent it from getting too hot. Prevents the oils from breaking down. A thorough sealcoat can keep the oils in the asphalt from breaking down so that the pavement won’t become brittle and prone to cracking. Repels moisture to encourage runoff. Sealant also helps the moisture to run off instead of soaking through and getting underneath the asphalt. When To Seal Your Asphalt The best time to seal your asphalt is in the spring before the weather gets hot. This way you may be able to prevent summertime heaving and other damage due to the heat of the sun and the UV rays. Who Should You Call For Asphalt Repair? If you have asphalt pavement that is buckled, cracked, or otherwise damaged, it is best to call a professional asphalt paving company. TopWest Asphalt provides asphalt repair and sealcoating to fix the uneven spots in your pavement and seal the asphalt to prevent further damage. Your driveway or parking lot can look like new again with a little help from us. Call 604-755-0300 or contact us today to schedule a free estimate.

Urban development is constantly underway in busy towns and cities across the country. The US population is steadily growing, and with that growth comes change. New businesses are popping up all around and for people to access those new businesses, roads are needed. How is a new road built? Here’s the step by step process of laying an asphalt road from the breaking of the ground to the final product. Steps in Building an Asphalt Road The process of building a new asphalt road can be broken down into 7 basic steps: Clearing the land. If the land is undeveloped, it will need to be cleared first. This means removing all trees and vegetation until there is just a layer of dirt remaining. If the land was developed but has fallen into disrepair, the pre-existing structures or pavement will need to be removed. Preparing the ground. The next step is to prepare the ground for paving. This means grading and sloping the land to encourage proper drainage. Moisture needs to be able to run off and flow away from the road naturally to prevent damage to the asphalt and sub layers. Lack of proper grading can lead to future potholes and asphalt failure, so this step is crucial. Laying the sub base. Once the ground is properly graded, the sub base layer can be put down. This provides a barrier between the ground soil and the pavement. It may be made of recycled concrete or bricks, manufactured aggregates, or granular fill. These materials are compacted to encourage proper drainage and reduce swelling and shrinkage in fluctuating temperatures. Laying the binder. The next layer that must be put down is the binder. It is made of a sticky substance called bitumen that is mixed with aggregates to form a solid, non-slip surface. It will not melt unless it reaches a temperature of 240 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for even the hottest climates. Laying the asphalt. The top layer is the asphalt. Asphalt is made of bitumen mixed with aggregates to form a solid, smooth surface. The initial color is a deep black that provides an attractive looking surface. The color will fade to gray over time from sun and traffic. Connections. The next step is to connect the new road to the other roads it leads to and away from. This requires careful paving to provide a smooth transition from the new pavement to the existing pavement. Painting. The final step is painting. Lines and directional symbols will need to be painted on the asphalt to direct traffic and provide safety information. How Long Does it Take to Build a New Road? The length of time varies depending on the situation. On average, laying a new asphalt road can take 2-3 weeks. For longer roads it could be as long as 8 weeks. The condition of the land and the length of the road are the biggest factors in determining the time frame for laying asphalt. How Soon Can You Drive on a New Road? It takes the asphalt a few days to solidify enough to be ready for vehicle and foot traffic. It is safest to wait at least 3 days after pavement is laid before using the road or opening it to others. Who Should I Hire to Pave My Road? If you have a new commercial building or business that needs a road, you’ll need a professional commercial asphalt paving company to build it. Road building is something that needs to be done by an expert to ensure the lasting success of your pavement. It requires specialized equipment and knowledge to build a quality road that will stand the test of time. TopWest Asphalt Builds Quality Asphalt Roads If you’re looking for a qualified, reliable asphalt paving company to build your new road, TopWest Asphalt has the experience necessary to provide you with top quality results. Call 604-755-0300 or contact us today to learn more and schedule a free estimate.

New asphalt pavement looks great when it is first laid. The deep black color, the smooth surface, and the sculptured edges provide a polished, professional appearance. But it seems that no sooner is asphalt put down than it begins to fade, crack, and crumble. This only happens if you don’t take the proper steps to protect it. If you have an asphalt driveway, parking lot, or other surface, it will need periodic seal coating and maintenance to protect it from damage from traffic, rain, sun, snow, ice, chemicals, leaves, and other debris. If you intend to do it yourself, here’s everything you will need. Supplies Needed For Asphalt Maintenance You’ll need the following materials in order to do your own asphalt repairs and maintenance: Barriers. The first step should be to place barriers to keep all vehicle and foot traffic off the asphalt surface. This can be construction cones, buckets, sawhorses, or whatever items you have handy. Stringing yellow safety tape between them can help make it more visible that the area is off limits. Pressure washer. The next step is to thoroughly clean your asphalt surface with a pressure washer. You’ll need one with significant pressure that can blast away dirt, debris, mildew, chemicals, and anything else that may be on the surface. Allow the surface to dry for at least 24 hours before applying sealcoating. Oil spot primer. If there are oil stains on your asphalt, you’ll need to use oil spot primer to remove them before applying sealcoat. Follow the directions carefully for how to apply and remove the oil spot primer. Broom or squeegee. You will need either a broom or squeegee that is made for applying asphalt seal coating. Crack filler. Before sealing your asphalt you’ll want to fill any cracks that are visible. You can purchase asphalt crack filler that can be applied to the cracks in the surface. Some crack fillers go on hot and others go on cold. Read the directions carefully before applying to ensure you are using the crack filler correctly for best results. Seal coating. You will need a good quality seal coating to apply to your asphalt surface. There are a variety of products out there, so do your research to find one that is made for the purpose you’re using it for. Read reviews to compare the different products and determine which one to purchase. You’ll need to check the weather forecast before applying seal coating to your asphalt surface. Make sure there is no rain coming for at least 24-48 hours so that the seal coat will have sufficient time to dry. Should I Apply Asphalt Seal Coating Myself? Asphalt seal coating can be a DIY (do it yourself) job in some cases. However, there is always a chance that something could go wrong and your asphalt surface will not be adequately protected. This could shorten the overall lifespan of your asphalt. Another consideration is the number and cost of supplies needed for the job, as well as the amount of time and labor required. Benefits of Hiring Asphalt Experts For Maintenance If the time, effort, and supplies required to maintain your asphalt seems like a lot, consider the benefits of hiring an asphalt paving contractor for maintenance: Professional results. When you hire asphalt professionals, you get professional looking results that last. Quality products. Asphalt paving experts know what products are good quality that will stand the test of time. Someone else does the work. You can sit and relax while someone else preps and seals your asphalt. Can handle large surfaces. If you have a large driveway or parking lot with a lot of square footage, professional asphalt paving companies have the equipment necessary to handle large areas. Who Should I Hire To Protect My Asphalt? The experts at TopWest Asphalt have the knowledge and experience to provide lasting protection for your asphalt surface. We use the highest quality products that we’ve tested extensively on our many paving projects. Your pavement will last longer and look newer with professional asphalt maintenance . Call 604-755-0300 or contact us today to learn more and schedule a service appointment.

Of the many ways to improve your home, paving your driveway is a guaranteed way to add value. Asphalt pavement is the blacktop surface you often see when parking lots and roads are paved. It is also ideal for residential driveways. But before you get started, make sure you are aware of these 10 things you didn’t know about paving your driveway. 1. Asphalt is affordable. When compared with concrete or pavers, asphalt is a more affordable paving material. The only less expensive option is tar and chip, which is not really considered to be pavement because a lot of the gravel remains loose.2. Asphalt can last for many years. With maintenance an asphalt driveway can last for at least 20-30 years, or even longer in many cases. Even without maintenance you can still get close to 10 years, but then when you do address it, the required maintenance will be more extensive. 3. Asphalt driveways need regular maintenance. An asphalt driveway will need to be resealed periodically to prevent damage and deterioration of the asphalt surface. It may eventually need to be resurfaced, which is a much simpler process than the initial laying of the asphalt. 4. Asphalt is environmentally friendly. Asphalt is actually a naturally occurring material found at the bottom of lakes all over the world. The type of asphalt used for paving driveways is partly made up of recycled materials, such as tires, glass, and asphalt roofing shingles. Asphalt does no harm to the environment when it is laid and as it breaks down. It can also be reclaimed and reused. 5. If not laid correctly, asphalt will crack. The foundation beneath an asphalt driveway must be prepared effectively or the asphalt will be prone to cracking. This is why professional installation is recommended. Cracks in your driveway can sometimes be patched, but the problem will continue if the foundation beneath it is not repaired. 6. Water can drain through asphalt. Asphalt is naturally porous, allowing rainwater to drain through it and into the ground below. This prevents water from pooling in low spots and causing damage to the surface. 7. Asphalt is better suited for cold and mild climates. In extremely hot weather, asphalt is susceptible to melting and warping, making it better for cooler climates. Asphalt is able to shift with changes in temperature, which means it is less likely to crack in freezing temperatures. 8. An asphalt driveway has excellent return on investment. When it comes to improvements to your home, paving your driveway provides a high return on investment in general. Paving your driveway with asphalt has a higher return on investment than any other paving material.9. The best time of year to have your driveway paved is spring or summer. Warmer conditions provide an ideal mixture of the asphalt for a smooth driveway. Cold temperatures can make it difficult to mix and lay the asphalt. 10. Asphalt driveways are consistently gaining popularity. More homeowners are having their driveways paved with asphalt due to the many benefits. 5 Things You Didn’t Know About TopWest Asphalt If you’re a potential new customer, we want you to know the following about us: 1. We’ve been in business since 2007. Jay Chauhan, the founder of TopWest Asphalt, has over 15 years of experience in the asphalt paving industry. 2. We provide free estimates. Our estimates are always free, giving you the opportunity to compare quotes and thoroughly weigh your options. 3. We are dedicated to quality. We believe in providing quality workmanship in every project. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority. 4. We provide residential and commercial paving services. Our paving services extend to businesses and homeowners. 5. We also provide maintenance services. We do more than just pave your driveway. We provide maintenance services to keep your driveway looking great for years to come. To learn more, call 604-755-0300 or contact us for a free estimate.

Is your driveway apron in need of repair? The apron refers to the part of the driveway that connects to the street. If your driveway apron is cracked, crumbling, or showing signs of damage, it needs to be repaired. As a homeowner or property owner it is your responsibility to make sure your driveway connects to the street according to the regulations of the city or county you live in, as well as any community or neighborhood restrictions. How much can you expect to pay for driveway apron repair? Here’s a general idea of the cost range and what factors into the overall cost. Average Cost for Asphalt Driveway Repair In general, asphalt driveway repair ranges from $500 to $1,500. The range is wide because it depends on a wide variety of factors. It is impossible to determine the exact cost of an asphalt repair project without an assessment of the damage and the repairs that will be necessary. But to get a general idea of where the cost may be within the above range, consider the following. Factors Affecting the Cost of Asphalt Repair The actual cost of repairs to an asphalt driveway varies based on the following factors: Extent of the damage. If the asphalt has merely superficial damage, it may be able to be patched, which is the lowest cost option. But more extensive damage may require resurfacing of the asphalt, which will cost more than patching. The highest cost comes when the asphalt needs to be completely redone, meaning the old asphalt is removed, the surface is prepared, and new asphalt is laid. Size of the driveway. Even if just the driveway apron is being repaired, the width of the driveway will be a factor in how much asphalt will be needed. The wider the driveway, the higher the cost of apron repair. Sidewalk. If your neighborhood has sidewalks and there is a sidewalk that goes through your driveway, that will need to be accounted for when planning your driveway repair project. Paving around a sidewalk adds additional complexity to the project that could increase the cost. Drainage. Since the driveway apron is the portion that leads to the street, drainage may need to be considered. Planning for proper drainage from your driveway to the street gutters is another factor that may add to the cost of the project. City, county, and community requirements. If your property is on a public street as most are, your driveway apron must meet city, county, and community or neighborhood requirements. If your neighborhood has a homeowner’s association, there may be certain regulations that apply to your driveway apron and how it is designed and paved. The complexity of the requirements could add to the cost of repair. Style preferences. Your driveway apron can be a style option for your property. If you have an embellished or enhanced driveway apron, it will cost more to repair it. It will also cost more if you want to upgrade your driveway apron to include a unique style. Get a Free Estimate From TopWest Asphalt TopWest Asphalt provides a full range of asphalt paving services , including driveway apron repair. If your driveway needs improvement of any degree, we can provide repair or repaving, whatever is needed to restore the beauty and functionality. We have extensive knowledge of the local regulations and requirements to ensure your driveway apron is up to code. To learn more, call 604-755-0300 or contact us for a free estimate.

Asphalt is a paving material used for a wide variety of surfaces. From driveways to parking lots to roadways, asphalt is one of the most common paving materials. It’s versatile, durable, and relatively low maintenance. If you’re thinking about getting asphalt pavement laid for the first time or having a surface repaved, the level of thickness matters. This information can help with the planning part of the project, as well as the implementation. Knowing how deep to dig and where underground water pipes, electrical wires, and utility lines are located can help you avoid mishaps. Residential Asphalt For a residential driveway, the asphalt needs to be able to support typical everyday vehicles and possibly heavy machinery on occasion. Residential asphalt should be at least 2-3 inches thick on top of the base layer. The base layer of asphalt should be made of up of granular aggregate and needs to be between 6 and 8 inches thick. This is if the soil underneath the base layer is rocky, sandy, or gravely. If the soil underneath your paved area is clay or silt, there may need to be some deeper digging and preparation of the soil before the base layer is laid. Professional asphalt pavers will analyze the soil and plan accordingly to ensure your asphalt is laid successfully. Commercial Asphalt For commercial asphalt , meaning parking lots, driveways, or roadways, it needs to be able to support many different types and sizes of vehicles. It must also hold up to high volumes of traffic. For these reasons, asphalt needs to be at least 3 inches thick for commercial use. Beneath those 3 inches of commercial asphalt should lie 8 inches of granular base aggregate for driveways and at least 6 inches for lots. The soil underneath the base layer should be well drained and rocky, gravely, or sandy. Heavy Duty Commercial Asphalt A heavy duty commercial driveway or lot would be a situation where heavy trucks and machinery will be driving frequently. Loading docks, industrial plants, mining areas, and any other paved area that will see a high volume of heavy duty traffic needs to have an asphalt layer of at least 4-7 inches with more specifically placed layers beneath and within the asphalt itself. There should be at least 6 inches of asphalt over 3 inches of base layer for any heavy duty commercial pavement. What Can Go Wrong if Asphalt Is Not Thick Enough? The thickness of asphalt pavement makes a difference in how long it lasts. There are a variety of problems that can occur if the base layers and asphalt layers are not thick enough to hold up to the size, weight, and volume of traffic that uses the surface. Problems may include: Cracking. Asphalt that is too thin may crack under the weight of heavy vehicles. Once cracks develop they can allow moisture to leak through and disrupt the base layer underneath. Buckling. The asphalt may buckle in large chunks under the weight of traffic. This can cause some pieces of asphalt to raise up and others to sink down, making the entire surface uneven. Low spots. Asphalt that is too thin can develop low spots where water will puddle and erode the pavement. Potholes. Severe low spots can become potholes that may even be capable of causing damage to vehicles. Drainage problems. The above problems can all lead to lack of proper drainage of an asphalt surface and the ground beneath. Trust Your Asphalt Pavement to the Professionals If you want to ensure your asphalt paving project is a success, hire the professional pavers of TopWest Asphalt. With over a decade of experience in the asphalt paving industry, we know how thick the base layer and asphalt needs to be to ensure your surface is even and stays that way. We provide a wide range of asphalt paving services from residential to commercial. Call 604-755-0300 or contact us today to request a free estimate.