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Made from aggregates such as gravel, sand, or crushed rock, and glued together with a binder known as bitumen, asphalt is an excellent solution for driveways, parking lots, roads, and similar applications. Yet many people do not know much about this highly useful material. Here are 10 things you should know about asphalt. 1. Asphalt Is Common Naturally occurring asphalt was used for roads at least as early as 625 BC. It was also an important trade product in ancient Egypt, used primarily in the mummification process. Today, commercially produced asphalt is used for an estimated 90% of commercial and residential parking areas. 2. Asphalt Is Recycled Although virgin asphalt is available at a higher cost, the vast majority of asphalt today is recycled. In fact, asphalt is one of the most commonly recycled products in the world, with recycling rates of 80% or more in most areas. Recycled asphalt works just as well as virgin, and is a tremendous sustainable choice for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. 3. Asphalt Should Be Laid in the Summer Hot mix asphalt and its newer counterpart, warm mix, are the best choice for the majority of projects. However, both types require warm weather to properly set. Cold mix asphalt can be used for emergency winter repairs, but might need to be replaced by a more permanent hot mix patch once the weather warms up. Whenever possible, plan your asphalt projects to take place between late spring and early fall. 4. Asphalt Has a Number of Advantages Aesthetics, durability, and noise reduction are among the main advantages that asphalt has over its competitors. It is also relatively simple and inexpensive to both lay and repair. In addition, white striping is easier to see against black asphalt, making it a safer choice for some applications. 5. New Asphalt Should Be Protected Although asphalt needs much less curing time than concrete—2 to 3 days as opposed to a full week—it still needs to be protected. Keep all vehicles, people, pets, and objects off the new asphalt for at least 48 hours, and preferably 72 hours. Do not park heavy equipment on it for the first month. During the first year, asphalt is prone to showing marks. Try not to park in the same spot every day. Avoid leaking gas, oil, and solvents. Place a board underneath kickstands and other sharp objects. Any marks that develop will fade with time, but it is best to avoid them when possible. 6. Asphalt Needs Regular Care Although asphalt is relatively maintenance-free, regular care can help to ensure that it lasts for a long time. Have your new asphalt sealcoated within the first two years, and then every three to four years after that. Sealcoating minimizes water damage, reduces color fading, and helps to replenish the binder that gradually wears away from age and weather. In addition, clean the asphalt thoroughly and inspect it for cracks twice per year. Fixing cracks right away can vastly extend the life of the asphalt. 7. Asphalt Can Often Be Patched Asphalt is surprisingly easy to patch as long as it is not too far gone. Small cracks, divots, and holes need just a simple liquid crack filling compound. More severely failed sections can be patched using a more complicated process known as dig out patching, in which the failed portion is replaced with new asphalt. If the damage is more extensive, resurfacing is much less complex and expensive than total replacement. 8. Asphalt Comes in Many Forms Asphalt is available in a wide variety of forms, each particularly suited to certain applications. Perpetual pavement is an excellent choice for highly trafficked roads, as only the top layer needs replacement over time. Porous asphalt helps to minimize the problems of poor drainage. Quiet asphalt significantly reduces road noise, making it a great choice for suburban roads. Your asphalt contractor will help you decide what type of asphalt is right for you. 9. Asphalt Lasts a Long Time With regular care, asphalt is highly durable and long-lasting. Under most conditions, you can expect newly laid asphalt to have a lifespan of at least 35 years. 10. A Professional Asphalt Contractor Is Critical Although some people consider asphalt work to be a DIY project, this is rarely the best choice. Most homeowners do not have the specialized skills, knowledge, and equipment to properly lay asphalt. Your contractor will help you choose the right type and grade of asphalt, perform any needed prep work, and lay your asphalt in a professional and durable way.

Are you wondering how to improve curb appeal for your home? Whether you’re planning to sell your home or you simply want your home to look as nice as (or nicer than) the others in the neighborhood, paving your driveway with asphalt is one way to improve curb appeal. In general, most homes have either a concrete or asphalt driveway. Concrete tends to be used more in newer housing developments where the homes are closer together and not as far back from the street. Asphalt is more likely to be found in rural areas and established neighborhoods where driveways are longer and homes are further from the street. Benefits of Asphalt Paving Affordable One of the biggest benefits of asphalt is that it is an affordable paving material. When compared to concrete, asphalt tends to be 40% to 60% cheaper, depending on the price in your area. This is one reason homeowners choose asphalt when they have a longer driveway to pave. Resilient Asphalt is made of a mixture of petroleum, gravel, and a few other materials. It is heated as it is made and once it is laid down and rolled flat it cools and hardens. As a result, asphalt is more flexible than cement. It can expand and contract with changing temperatures, which allows it to be more resilient and less likely to crack. Attractive Asphalt is typically black when newly poured and may fade to gray over time. Its solid color and smooth surface is aesthetically pleasing. Sleek edges give your driveway a flawless appearance. Artistic edging with brick or stone can help to complete the look. Weather-Friendly Asphalt is resistant to rain, snow, ice, hail, sleet, and any other kind of weather that may occur. Hot temperatures may cause it to expand, but it won’t crack or ripple if properly laid. Conversely, cold weather will cause it to contract, but without damage. Snow and ice melt off faster as the dark color of the asphalt absorbs the sun’s heat. Won’t Show Stains One advantage of the dark color of asphalt is that stains, such as oil leaking from a vehicle, don’t show up. Tire tracks, leaf matter, grass stains, rust, and other stains are not as noticeable on the black color of asphalt. Easily Maintained Less noticeable staining also leads to lower maintenance for asphalt driveways. Occasionally pressure washing can help to keep asphalt clean. Every few years it is necessary to apply a sealcoating to prevent cracks and other damage. Keeping the surface well sealed keeps moisture from seeping into cracks and damaging the sub-surface beneath. How To Improve Curb Appeal in Worthwhile Ways When it comes to boosting your home’s curb appeal, there are some improvements that offer more value than others. If you’re planning to sell, you want to get the most resale value possible from your investment. Paving your driveway with asphalt is one improvement that is affordable and offers excellent return on investment. When potential buyers approach your home, the first impression they get will make all the difference when it comes to their interest and the amount of their offer. Exterior improvements can be more important than interior improvements in many cases. If potential buyers don’t like what they see as they drive up, they may just drive on by. Have an Asphalt Driveway that Needs Repair? If your home already has an asphalt driveway, what condition is it in? If the asphalt is cracked, crumbling, rippled, or showing other signs of damage, it may turn off potential buyers. The good news is that asphalt repair costs less than a complete repaving. You can have cracks sealed and potholes filled in so that your driveway looks like new. Get the Best Value with Topwest Asphalt If you’re in need of asphalt paving in Vancouver, Topwest Asphalt is reliable and affordable. We effectively prepare the surface and lay the asphalt so that it is smooth and solid, lasting for years with proper maintenance and sealing. We offer asphalt repair and sealing services for the driveways we pave as well as those we didn’t. Call (604) 857-3126 today to schedule asphalt services or request a free quote. We look forward to helping you improve your home’s appearance with asphalt.

Asphalt is one of the top parking lot, roadway, and driveway paving materials because it is economical and durable. It also gives your home or business a professional appearance when the paving is done properly. But in order to preserve that appearance, it is necessary to effectively maintain your asphalt. What is required to keep asphalt looking new? There are a few steps you can take to preserve the appearance of your asphalt so that it lasts as long as possible before it needs to be repaved. Follow these professionally recommended tips for how to keep your asphalt looking new. Have it Seal Coated Every 3 years or so, asphalt needs to be sealed. The sealant helps to slow the wear and tear of the asphalt and keep it strong. It helps to protect the driveway from water and UV damage that causes fading. The sealcoating also gives the asphalt its appealing shine. Have the seal coat applied professionally for best, lasting results. Repair Cracks Promptly As soon as you notice a crack in the asphalt, repair it immediately. Cracks will only worsen when left alone, and severe cracking can result in the need for a complete repaving job. Inspect your driveway or parking lot regularly for cracks. The telltale sign is usually weeds or grass growing up through the crack. Repairing cracks can be a do-it-yourself job, but hiring a professional can ensure the cracks will be effectively patched and remain that way for longer. Keep it Clean Clear grass, leaves, and other debris from your asphalt regularly. Clean up gas and oil spills as soon as possible, especially diesel fuel, which can be extremely degrading to the asphalt. Keeping the surface clean will increase the lifespan, allowing your driveway or parking lot to last much longer before needing to be repaved. Drive Carefully Try to avoid sharp turns and hard braking while on your asphalt surface. Asphalt is durable, however, it can be softened by extremely hot temperatures, making it susceptible to tire tread marks and other damage. Extreme cold can have the opposite effect, making the asphalt brittle and also more easily damaged. Don’t Turn the Wheel While Parked If your vehicle is sitting in the driveway, either in park or with the brake on, don’t attempt to turn the wheel. This can cause the tires to scrape the asphalt, which can do permanent damage. First put the car in gear and start to slowly move before turning the wheel in either direction. Snow Removal Tips It can be tricky to effectively remove snow from your asphalt driveway without causing harm. The cold will make the surface brittle and more susceptible to damage. It is best to use a plastic shovel rather than metal when shoveling snow from your driveway because plastic is gentler and less likely to chip away at the asphalt. If you use salt, do so sparingly because salt can cause erosion and discoloration of your asphalt. Be Careful with Heavy Machinery and Diesel Fuel Heavy machines and large vehicles can damage asphalt. Try to avoid driving or allowing heavy vehicles to be driven on your asphalt surface. Parking heavy vehicles for long periods of time is especially important to avoid with asphalt, as the surface may not be strong enough to support that kind of weight for the long term. Topwest Asphalt Can Show You How To Keep Your Asphalt Looking New If you have any questions about maintaining your asphalt, Topwest Asphalt is happy to offer our expertise. We provide tips and suggestions as well as professional help with seal coating, patching, and repaving your driveway, parking lot, or other asphalt surface. Call (604) 857-3126 today to schedule service or request a free estimate. We look forward to providing paving solutions to help you establish or maintain a professional looking asphalt surface.

Choosing a reliable asphalt contractor can be challenging, but it is incredibly important. While a high-quality, professional job can last for decades, substandard work can begin to fall apart in as little as two years. Fortunately, taking the time to thoroughly interview potential contractors can help to ensure that you hire the best. Price is not necessarily an indication of quality, but the answers to these questions can be. 1. Do You Have References? References are one of the easiest ways to weed out disreputable contractors, but many people never bother to ask. Others collect names and phone numbers, but do not actually call to check them. The contractor should provide you with at least three names upon request, along with phone numbers or physical addresses. Always contact the references and ask for their detailed opinions about the contractor. If possible, take the time to visit the job sites to look at the finished work. 2. How Long Have You Been in Business? Everyone has to start somewhere, and a new business is not necessarily unequipped for the job. In general, though, the longer a company has been in business, the less likely it is to close in the middle of your project. If all other factors are equal, consider going with a company with a proven track record. 3. Are You Properly Licensed and Insured? Depending on your needs, your project might require numerous individual tasks. Make sure your potential contractor has all of the necessary licenses and insurance policies to cover those tasks, or subcontracts out certain jobs to those who do. Don’t hesitate to ask for proof, such as a copy of the insurance certificate or current license. 4. Are You a Member in Good Standing With the Better Business Bureau? While membership in the Better Business Bureau is not a requirement for a contractor to do a good job, it is a sign of a serious, reputable, conscientious business owner. Be sure to check with the bureau for recent complaints, which can be filed whether or not the contractor is a member. 5. Do You Have Specialized Equipment? Some people perform small paving jobs, such as driveways, by hand, but this is never the best option unless your driveway is unusually small. Machine paving gives a more finished appearance and is more likely to last for many years to come. 6. What Extra Charges Aren’t Included in the Estimate? Even the best asphalt contractor can’t always predict what might be uncovered when your project begins, but an experienced professional is aware of what kinds of problems sometimes arise. Ask for a detailed explanation of what the estimate includes and what sorts of additional charges you might need to expect. 7. Can You Explain My Entire Project in Detail, With Time Estimates and Recommended Customizations? Every project is different, and a good asphalt contractor is able to explain why. Your potential contractor should be able to tell you whether asphalt or concrete is better for your project, what grade of asphalt will be used, what sorts of customizations or additional projects are recommended (and why), and what type of warranty is provided. Other vital information includes the approximate timeline, how many employees will be involved, and any special instructions you need to follow, such as parking elsewhere or clearing out clutter. Listen carefully to what the contractor tells you and, equally important, what is not said. Good contractors are able and willing to talk freely and easily, explaining technical terms and answering all of your questions. Shady contractors tend to change the subject, gloss over important information, and avoid questions. An interview is a critical part of choosing an asphalt contractor, but many customers do not pay close attention. Listen carefully, ask for written documentation, and follow up on the contractor’s claims. While there are never guarantees against being ripped off, asking detailed questions can help to minimize your risks. Choose Topwest Asphalt for Your Next Asphalt Project If you're ready to get started with an experienced asphalt contractor, then look no further than Topwest Asphalt. We've been in business for over 20 years and can handle a range of asphalt projects from residential to commercial. 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!

Hiring a contractor for any project is a big decision. You need to ensure that the company you select is well-qualified, experienced, and able to provide the service you need on time and on budget. Yet for many people, hiring a street sweeping company is not an everyday occurrence. How can you be sure that the company you choose is right for the job? What questions do you need to ask, and what should you look into more deeply? Here are 5 important considerations for hiring a street sweeper. 1. Safety Safety is paramount for any big project. Ask detailed questions to ensure that the street sweeper is up to date on the latest regulations. Inquire about how much training employees receive, and how often they receive continuing education. Since street sweeping machines are considered heavy equipment, make sure employees undergo medical certification. Ensure that the machinery is regularly inspected and maintained. Finally, find out the company’s safety record. Be wary of anyone who tries to avoid safety-related questions or provides vague answers. A good street sweeper understands that safety is key, and will be eager to share specific information on all of the company’s safety protocols. 2. Experience General street sweeping experience is a good place to start, but it is not enough. You should choose a street sweeper that has specific experience in the type of project you have. Different types of asphalt and different surface materials require different cleaning methods, and your street sweeper should have the knowledge and experience to successfully clean your particular type of asphalt. If the company has many employees, request the one who is experienced in similar projects to yours be assigned to you. Sometimes the company owner has a great deal of experience, but the employees are poorly trained and inexperienced. If the sales representative is vague or unwilling to tell you who will perform the work, consider it a red flag. 3. Equipment Street sweeping machines come in many different styles, sizes, and designs. Pure vacuum sweepers are an excellent choice for porous asphalt, as they create a strong suction that thoroughly cleanses the different layers. Regenerative air sweepers use hydraulics to push dust and dirt to the center of the street for vacuuming. Mechanical sweepers are the most maneuverable, and are generally the best choice for tighter areas such as driveways. Ask potential street sweepers what type of equipment they have and why they believe it is suited to your project. 4. Reputation Of course, the best way to judge any contractor is by the company’s previous work. Ask for references, and be sure to follow up on them. Check online reviews. Look for testimonials on the company’s website. Find out who has a reputation for quality work and excellent customer service, and eliminate those who do not make the cut. A good street sweeper can make your asphalt appear practically new, while a poor one can actually make things worse. 5. Proactive Responses Good contractors are able to respond quickly and appropriately to challenges that arise, even in the middle of a project. When interviewing potential street sweepers, ask them to describe a time that the job did not go as planned. What happened, and how did the employee handle it? Emergency situations are just part of life, but how they are handled speaks volumes about a company’s professionalism and customer service skills. Like any contractor, hiring just the right street sweeper for your project can be challenging. Yet choosing the wrong one can lead to ongoing hassles and headaches. Take the time to thoroughly interview potential contractors, ask for references and then follow up with them, and determine how much experience the street sweeper you are considering has with projects like yours. A bit of legwork early on will reap numerous rewards once your project begins. Why Choose Topwest Asphalt? 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!

In both summer and winter, severe weather is a fact of life. While properly laid asphalt is durable and relatively weather-resistant, big storms could spell big problems if there are any existing issues. Before a storm hits, take the time to make sure your asphalt is ready for the onslaught. Here are 4 ways to ensure that your asphalt survives a storm. 1. Assess On a clear day, make a detailed assessment of the asphalt, as well as its immediate surroundings. Common trouble spots that could put your asphalt at risk include, but are not limited to: Asphalt Cracks: Even minor cracks open up the possibility of water intrusion, which could erode the asphalt from the inside out. Dips or Depressions: These allow water to pool, weakening the surface of the asphalt and increasing the likelihood of cracks or potholes. Drainage Issues: Blocked drains allow water to pool on the asphalt’s surface, weakening it. Staining and debris are clear signs that there is a drainage issue nearby. Potholes: Potholes tend to worsen over time, and if standing water collects in one, it will not take long for that entire section of asphalt to fail. 2. Make Minor Repairs Most of the issues you find will likely be simple and inexpensive to fix now, but could lead to major damage during or after a storm. Fill in cracks, remove debris, clear blocked drains, and sweep the asphalt regularly to prevent debris from accumulating. 3. Call in the Professionals If there are larger issues, such as potholes or depressions, call in an asphalt expert for professional advice. There are numerous possible repair solutions, from skin patching to dig-out patching to resurfacing. Each has its own pros and cons, and some options are more expensive than others. Your asphalt expert can assess the situation with a critical eye and make recommendations that are customized to your particular needs. 4. Consider a Seal Coat A seal coat locks out water intrusion as well as asphalt-damaging chemicals and even UV rays. Although it might seem pricey at first, when amortized over its 2 to 3-year lifespan, a seal coat can be a relatively inexpensive way to protect your asphalt from costly damage. Both summer and winter storms are inevitable, and both can wreak havoc on asphalt. Fortunately, properly-installed asphalt that is regularly maintained has a good chance of surviving the weather. Make a detailed assessment of likely trouble spots, fix any minor issues you find, and call in a professional to help you decide what to do about any major existing problems. Add a seal coat, and your asphalt should be ready for storm season. Why Choose Topwest Asphalt? 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!

An asphalt driveway, road, or parking lot is a significant investment. With routine maintenance, properly installed asphalt can last 35 years or more. A poor quality job, however, may begin to deteriorate within the first two years. Hiring someone to repair or replace substandard asphalt is often more expensive than simply having the job done right to begin with. Finding a reliable asphalt contractor can be a challenge, but the results are definitely worth the effort. Here are 5 tips to ensure that you hire an experienced, professional asphalt contractor. 1. Beware of Scams Door to door scams are a real risk in any part of the construction industry, but it can be especially tough for a homeowner to spot substandard asphalt work. If someone knocks on your door offering to sell you discounted asphalt leftover from a previous job, be on guard. It might be a legitimate offer, but dig deeper to be sure what you are actually getting and whether the company is trustworthy. Another common scam is to promise you a newer, better way of doing the job. Asphalt paving has not significantly changed in decades, so be skeptical of anyone who promises a new technique. Also make sure that the contractor uses a paving machine rather than paving by hand, which can be extremely time consuming and result in a poor quality finished product. Remember that anything that seems too good to be true usually is. Gather at least three estimates, and throw out any that are far lower than the others. Walk away from any contractor who uses high-pressure techniques or claims that a particular price is valid today only. 2. Ask Detailed Questions Licensing, insurance, and bonding are just a few of the areas in which fly by night companies might be lacking. Find out what kind of equipment the contractor uses, how many employees will work on your job, and what grade of asphalt is used. Ask how thick the asphalt layer will be, and whether there are any unusual circumstances that might add to the final price. A good contractor will be eager to sit down with you and review the specifics of your project, go over exactly what will happen, give an estimated timeline, and explain technical terms. Be wary of anyone who shies away from providing concrete information. 3. Get Personal Recommendations The best way to ensure that you are satisfied with the job is to seek recommendations from someone you trust. If you know anyone who has recently had asphalt work done and is pleased with the results, ask for a referral to that person’s contractor. Otherwise, ask the companies you are considering for references. Call those people and ask detailed questions about their overall experience, likes and dislikes, and anything they would change about the process. 4. Perform Due Diligence Scam artists can be smooth talkers. If they sense that you know what you are talking about, they can pull out all the right sales pitches to convince you to sign. Therefore, no matter what you are told, do a little research on the company before you commit. Check into the company’s license status. Look for online complaints. Read reviews. If possible, take a look at examples of the contractor’s completed work. Make sure that you know exactly what you are getting before you sign on the dotted line. 5. Read the Contract It is simply amazing that in this day and age, people still do not bother to read contracts before they sign. In most cases, whatever is written in the contract is enforceable, and not being aware does not prevent you from being responsible for it. Be especially wary of any contractor who tries to push you to sign quickly, glosses over blank spots on the contract, or tries to distract you while you are reading the fine print. Get Started With Topwest Asphalt 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!

Do you have an asphalt driveway or parking lot? If so, periodically sealcoating your asphalt is recommended. While asphalt is a solid, durable surface, it is still susceptible to damage from a variety of sources. Sealcoating protects your asphalt from such damage, prolonging the life of your surface. Consider these 6 Benefits of sealcoating your asphalt driveway. What Are The Benefits of Sealcoating? Extends the life of your asphalt surface. When you invest in an asphalt driveway or parking lot, you want the results to last. Sealcoating protects your investment for the long term. Spending a little bit to seal your pavement every few years will prevent you from having to completely replace your asphalt later. Reduces repairs.Sealcoating your asphalt surface can prevent the need for more frequent repairs. Unsealed pavement is susceptible to cracks and can chip away at the edges, requiring asphalt repair. Protects against weather of all kinds.Weather takes its toll on asphalt over time. Rain, snow, ice, sun, heat, wind, and other elements can damage the pavement. Sealcoating protects your surface from the effects of weather, preventing damage and potential need for repairs. Accelerates snow and ice melt-off.Sealcoating an asphalt driveway allows snow and ice to melt more quickly. This reduces the amount of snow shoveling that will be necessary. It will also make surfaces driveable sooner after bad weather, increasing the safety of public and private driveways and parking lots. Protects from chemical damage.Driveways and parking lots bear the brunt of the chemical onslaught from vehicles, such as oil, gasoline, salt, and oxidation. These chemicals can damage the surface of your asphalt and weaken it, making further damage more likely. Sealcoating protects the asphalt from harsh chemicals, preventing the need for future asphalt repair. Improves the appearance of your home or building.Sealcoating makes asphalt look darker, shinier, and smoother, which enhances not only its own appearance, but the appearance of the building, house, or land around it. It also seals cracks, preventing weeds and grass from popping up through. How Often is Sealcoating Recommended? Experts recommend sealcoating your asphalt driveway every 1 to 3 years for best results. A better estimate within that time would be based on how often it appears to need it. The sealcoating wears off over time due to traffic, weather, and chemicals. Don’t wait until your driveway is cracking or chipping away before you decide to look into sealcoating. At that point you will also be in need of asphalt repair in addition to the sealcoating. What Does the Sealcoating Process Entail and How Long Will it Take? Applying sealcoating requires a favorable weather forecast with no rain for 4 to 5 days. Grass and greenery need to be cut back from the edges of the pavement. The asphalt needs to be well cleared of any grass clippings, dirt, gravel, or oil. Cracks and holes are patched first and allowed to dry before sealcoating is applied. It may require a few coats of sealer to sufficiently cover the asphalt. Your driveway will be off-limits to vehicles for 72 hours and foot traffic for at least 24 hours. Topwest Asphalt Provides Residential and Commercial Paving Services Are you in need of asphalt sealcoating or other paving services? Call (604) 857-3126 today for a free estimate or request a quote. We look forward to helping you protect your asphalt investment.

Asphalt driveways normally last for about 20 years. However, the way you treat them can make them last a bit longer or, if they are mistreated, significantly reduce their lifespan. To maximize the life of your asphalt driveway, follow these four simple tips. Minimize Water Intrusion Water is considered nature’s solvent, and water intrusion can wreak havoc on your asphalt driveway. A properly installed driveway should provide natural runoff from rainwater and incidental soaking, but unnatural water sources can lead to pooling. Standing water will erode your driveway from the top down. To guard against this, keep a close eye on your sprinklers and irrigation system. Adjust them to prevent or minimize driveway spray. Underground water intrusion is also a major concern. Your asphalt driveway sits on a foundation of dirt and aggregate material. Water can undermine that foundation, causing it to become unstable and eventually crack. This can lead to potholes and even total asphalt failure. Keep an eye on your water pressure as well as your water bill. A sudden drop in pressure or spike in your bill could indicate a leaking pipe or other issues. If you have a landscaper, ask him or her to alert you immediately of any possible signs of leaking. Keep Your Asphalt Driveway Clean Dirt and debris are major contributors to pooling and standing water. Pay close attention to the edges of your driveway, curb openings near your home, and other areas where debris can accumulate. Failure to keep these areas clean restricts water flow, preventing it from being dispersed to proper drainage areas. If you notice any standing water, this should be the first check you make. Don’t Forget About Other Fluids Water may be known as nature’s solvent, but oil, gasoline, and other vehicle fluids are very strong solvents as well. Over time these fluids, as well as such common household chemicals as antifreeze and paint thinner, can erode your asphalt driveway and cause it to fail. Keep your vehicles properly maintained, make sure all containers are properly capped, and always thoroughly rinse away any driveway spills. Inspect & Repair Your Asphalt Driveway While prevention is crucial, the reality is that asphalt driveways take quite a beating. Have your driveway professionally inspected at least once per year, or whenever you start to notice damage. An experienced asphalt contractor can check for signs of weakening, carry out repairs if needed, and give you advice for protecting your driveway in the future. Seal coating is a procedure in which the asphalt is covered with a protective layer of sealant. This helps to lock out the fluids that can damage your driveway. It is not foolproof, so you must still be cautious, but it can dramatically boost the driveway’s lifespan. Have the initial seal coat applied approximately six months after the driveway is installed, and plan to reapply it every two to three years, or as directed by your professional inspector. Minor driveway damage is easy to repair, but if you ignore it, the damage will worsen over time. As soon as you notice small cracks forming, fill them in with a liquid patching compound. If the damage is more severe, ask your professional asphalt contractor for advice. Surface patching, in which a few inches of asphalt are milled off the top and replaced, is generally the best solution for moderate damage. Dig out patching, in which an entire section of asphalt is removed and replaced from the ground up, can often save a driveway with a few failed sections. Resurfacing is generally necessary for extensively damaged driveways. It is less costly than replacement, but restores the structural strength and visual appeal of the driveway. Asphalt driveways normally have a lifespan of around 20 years, but the decisions you make can shorten or lengthen that result. Proper care and maintenance are absolutely essential for a long-lasting, good-looking driveway that you can enjoy for many years to come.

Whether you are interested in a new driveway or a municipal road, asphalt is a major investment. With regular care and maintenance, it can last for 20 or more years. However, asphalt that is not maintained can easily fall victim to cracking, potholes, and eventual failure. Here is how you can protect your asphalt and maximize your investment. Asphalt Installation Interview any asphalt contractor you are considering, and be sure to follow up with references. The type and quality of asphalt selected, the level of care put into preparing the site, and the exact techniques used during the laying process can all make a significant difference in the lifespan of your asphalt. A good contractor understands the particular challenges of each job and will guide you towards the best choices for your project. He or she will not cut corners, but will take the time necessary for a top-notch installation. Seal Coating Heat, UV rays, and such common substances as gasoline, oil, and salt can erode asphalt over time. As the outer layers of asphalt wear away, water can more easily penetrate, leading to cracks and holes. Seal coating, or covering the asphalt with a protective sealant product, halts this process, protecting the asphalt and extending its lifespan. Have your asphalt seal coated approximately six months after installation, allowing it time to fully cure. Sealant wears away over time, so it should be inspected annually and re-sealed every two to three years. Regular Asphalt Inspection Close visual inspection is the best way to find emerging damage before it becomes severe. At least once per year, move all vehicles and other items out of the way, and take a close look at the asphalt. Check for cracks, divots, holes, or other imperfections. Also look for areas of standing water or improper drainage, which can damage the asphalt over time. Asphalt Patching Patching is a quick, easy, and long-lasting solution for minor asphalt problems. Damage that is less than one-quarter inch wide can generally be patched with a simple liquid patching compound. If the damage is a bit more severe, the asphalt may still be able to be saved. Surface patching is often the best choice for moderately damaged asphalt. A few inches of asphalt are milled off the top of the damaged area, the hole is thoroughly cleaned out, and new asphalt is poured in and leveled off. Severe damage in a relatively small area can often be fixed with dig-out patching. In this case, the entire section of failed asphalt is removed, and a new section is laid from the ground up. This is a complex repair, but is typically less expensive than total replacement if the damaged area is fairly compact. Asphalt Resurfacing Patching restores strength and integrity, but a patched piece of asphalt will never be as visually appealing as a new one. In addition, if you have multiple cracks or holes, it might be cost-prohibitive or impractical to patch all of them. Resurfacing is a solution that can greatly extend the life of your asphalt while improving its curb appeal. In this case, the top layers of the asphalt are completely removed. Any necessary patching is done to restore structural strength, and then the top layers are replaced. This provides the strength and visual appeal of brand new asphalt at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement. To maximize the lifespan of your asphalt, it is important to start with a high-quality installation, seal coat it, and then inspect and repair it frequently. Minor maintenance, such as small crack sealing, is easy and inexpensive. Repairing more extensive damage is more time consuming and costly than crack sealing, but it is still less than entirely replacing the asphalt. Staying ahead of potential damage is the best way to protect your asphalt and maximize your investment. 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.

It’s that time of year again. Cold nights and chilly mornings are still giving way to afternoon warmth, but with Thanksgiving over and Christmas on the way, it is just a matter of time before we settle in for another frigid winter. Winter can be tough on asphalt, but taking a few precautions now can help to protect your driveway or parking lot through the long, cold months. Fix Cracked Asphalt & Other Minor Damage The best defense is a good offense. Take the time to critically survey your asphalt. Are there any asphalt cracks or potholes? If so, water can penetrate to the deeper layers of the asphalt, where it can get trapped and freeze, expanding to cause further damage. When the ice melts, it will contract, leaving a void. As vehicles pass over the void, they can cause buckling and even more damage. To short-circuit this process, schedule asphalt repairs as soon as possible. Once the ambient air and ground temperatures drop too low, it will be impossible to perform long-lasting repairs until spring. Now is the time to make sure that all minor damage is repaired and your asphalt is ready for winter. Protect With Asphalt Sealcoating One of the best ways to protect your asphalt against damage from winter weather is to have it seal coated. Before the ambient temperature gets too low, ask your asphalt professional about applying a seal coat. This thin, protective layer helps your driveway or parking lot repel water, along with oil, gas, and other chemicals that can weaken the asphalt. Seal coats should be inspected every year and reapplied every two to three years as needed. Prepare for Snowplows Snowplows are a fact of life during the winter, but can wreak havoc on asphalt if not properly prepared for. First, make sure that your snow removal company is professional and experienced. It is impossible for any snow remover to leave your asphalt completely undisturbed, but the more experience a company has, the better its employees usually are at minimizing damage. In addition, place obvious markers around your driveway edges, or the curbs and islands of your parking lot. Make sure they will stick up above the snow and are easy to see even in poor weather conditions. These will alert your snow removal driver to the contours and boundaries of your asphalt, helping them to avoid expensive and difficult to repair damage. Check Your Drainage System Make sure that your drainage system is clear and properly flowing. As winter storms come and go, standing water can pool on top of your asphalt. This erodes the asphalt from the top down, potentially opening up new cracks that can allow water to penetrate. In addition, standing water can become a hazard if it freezes, creating slippery ice. Now is the time to ensure that your drainage system is quickly moving water away from the asphalt. Winter Emergency Asphalt Repairs Although proper repairs cannot be performed in the middle of winter, emergency solutions are available. Cold patching is not dependent on the ambient temperature and can serve as a valuable temporary solution until the weather warms up in the spring. If you notice cracks or potholes developing during the winter months, call your asphalt professional for advice as soon as possible. Winter weather can wreak havoc on asphalt, but taking the time to get prepared now can significantly minimize the damage. Have any existing problems fixed, set up markers to let snow removal experts know where the boundaries, curbs, and islands are and have your asphalt seal coated. Also, make sure that your drainage system is working properly. Should problems arise during the winter, contact your asphalt professional for temporary solutions. With a bit of proactive care and maintenance, your asphalt should not suffer any major damage from winter freezes or spring thaws. 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.

In the fall, the weather begins to cool and can lead to many changes around your home or business. While many people are checking their houses to ensure that everything is ready for the winter, most people forget to check their driveways or parking lots. If they are made out of asphalt, then the fall weather changes can affect them too. Here is what you should do to maintain your asphalt surfaces for the fall. General Cleaning The first step in maintaining your asphalt surface is to clean it thoroughly. Begin by removing loose debris across the entire surface. It is especially important to remove biomatter, like leaves and weeds, that can get into the cracks and cause problems in the spring. You also want to get rid of as much dirt as possible. All of this debris on the surface makes it difficult to do an accurate inspection and can become a slipping hazard later on. Inspect The next thing that you want to do is inspect the entire surface. You are looking for obvious problems, like cracks and holes, as well as some invisible problems. Cracks and holes make it possible for plants to survive the winter and grow out in the spring. They grow with enough force to break the asphalt and make the cracks bigger, slowly destroying your driveway or surface over time. Aside from obvious problems, you want to look for changes in the surface that are hard to see. This will let you see if there are dips in the surface where water collects. This will be a problem area when it rains or if it freezes outside. Take note of these areas so that you can deal with them when the time comes. Repair If you have problems with your asphalt surface, then get them repaired right away. Cracks can easily be treated and filled so that they don’t continue to expand. Holes are easily repaired as well, which can avoid a lot of dangerous situations. Dips on the surface can also be fixed with a bit more extensive work to smooth it over. While they may not seem like major problems now, waiting to get any of them fixed will make the problem worse later on. Sealcoat If Possible If you are able to, apply a sealcoat to the asphalt surface. Sealcoats apply a protective layer to the asphalt that is both wear-resistant and weather-resistant. It will waterproof your surface so that water can’t get in to feed buried plants or crack the surface when it freezes. Sealcoating is easy and does not take long to do, so it is something you should consider renewing every year. It will drastically decrease the wear on the surface and save you on repair costs. Ready to Get Started? Getting asphalt repairs done may seem like a major undertaking, but the right team of asphalt specialists can get the work done without any problems. Give us a call at (604) 857-3126 for assistance with your asphalt maintenance needs. We can do repairs and sealcoating quickly to keep your surface safe during the winter.