How Do Dallas Paving Companies Install Asphalt Overlays?
How Do Dallas Paving Companies Install Asphalt Overlays?
When most people think of asphalt paving, they picture brand-new construction. However, Dallas paving companies can do much more than pave new surfaces. They can also transform existing ones, giving them a like-new look and years of added longevity without the costs, time, or logistical challenges of repaving. Asphalt overlays are a fantastic choice for old, deteriorated pavements needing some TLC. But how does overlaying work?
What Is an Asphalt Overlay?
Asphalt overlays are a thin layer of new material applied to an existing paved surface or foundation. Overlays are thin, typically 1.5 to 3 inches thick, depending on your pavement’s needs.
Overlays are usually part of larger resurfacing projects. It’s a unique service that combines asphalt paving and repair. When done correctly, overlays can address serious signs of distress, correcting multiple asphalt repair issues in one go while extending the lifespan of a surface. It’s a fantastic way to put off reconstruction for many years, ultimately saving time and money while still giving neglected surfaces the attention they deserve.
How Do Dallas Paving Companies Determine If a Surface Can Benefit from an Overlay?
It’s not difficult to see why asphalt overlays are so popular. However, paving companies in Dallas can’t apply an overlay to every damaged surface. There are many factors to consider, and the best paving contractors will examine your pavement more closely to determine whether an overlay is the right move. Here are a few details that paving companies in Dallas will consider.
•Pavement Age: Resurfacing and asphalt overlays are ideal when pavement is around 10 to 15 years old. In some cases, asphalt companies can resurface pavement that is as old as 20 years. However, surfaces that are any older won’t benefit as much from an overlay. Instead, asphalt paving companies will recommend repaving.
•Foundation Integrity: Because asphalt contractors apply overlays to existing foundations, widespread damage will disqualify surfaces from this transformative service. Contractors can perform light foundation asphalt repairs, but the substructure must be structurally sound.
•Extent of Damage: Extension surface damage will also present issues for asphalt paving companies. As a good rule of thumb, damage must not exceed 30 percent of your pavement’s surface area to qualify for an overlay.
How Do Dallas Paving Companies Complete Overlay Projects?
Applying an overlay is a multi-step process that requires a methodical approach and thorough planning.
•The Planning Phase: First, asphalt companies will assess the damage to develop a plan of attack. Most projects require some light demolition and preparation. For example, asphalt paving companies often have to remove handicap ramps or prepare utility features to prevent damage. Teams will handle these tasks long before your resurfacing project begins. Asphalt contractors will also obtain necessary permits and help you overcome logistical sensitivities to minimize disruptions to your property or business.
•Milling: Before asphalt companies can apply an overlay, they must remove existing material. This process, called milling, involves using heavy-duty machinery to pulverize only a few inches of material. Milling machines are precise, allowing asphalt paving companies to destroy only what they need to while leaving the foundation intact.
•Foundation Work: After milling, paving companies in Dallas will proceed with foundation repairs. This stage is when asphalt contractors will perform asphalt repairs to address any existing deep-rooted issues. Milling sometimes unveils damage that extends below the surface. Contractors will perform any necessary repairs to prevent damage from reappearing on your new asphalt overlay.
•Tack Coat:Next, asphalt companies will apply a tack coat. Tack coats act as a glue between the existing foundation and the new overlay, ensuring a tight, long-lasting bond.
•Fresh Asphalt Paving: Finally, asphalt paving companies can proceed by applying the new overlay. This process is similar to fresh asphalt paving. Teams lay and compact hot asphalt to the existing foundation, ensuring a smooth, seamless finish.
Want to see if your pavement could benefit from an asphalt overlay? Legacy Paving has you covered. We’re among the most trusted asphalt companies in the area. Unlike other Dallas TX paving companies, we never cut corners or do anything that could compromise your pavement’s integrity. Our goal is to develop solutions that meet your needs, and we apply years of expertise to deliver results that count.
Our services include new asphalt paving, overlays, milling, crack repair, reclamation, asphalt repair, sealcoating, concrete curbing, ramps, sidewalks, and more. Get your free quote today by calling Legacy Paving at (214) 771-5726. You can also email the team at info@legacypavingtx.com or use our online form to get in touch.
