Paving Contractors in Madison CT sometimes are asked whether certain projects can combine asphalt and concrete. For instance, customers may want to know if they can have asphalt laid on top of a concrete driveway or if they can repair concrete with asphalt. They don’t want to spend the extra money on concrete and may like the look of blacktop.
A Stable Base
It is indeed possible to place asphalt on top of concrete in many cases. Some property owners want this option because it is more affordable than having the old driveway demolished and carried away. Concrete generally provides a solid, stable base for the more flexible asphalt. Blacktop shrinks and expands to a certain extent with temperature change and becomes more pliable in high heat. Concrete does not do this.
Joints, Holes, and Cracks
One consideration is whether the driveway has any expansion joints that are included to prevent cracks. The asphalt will be weaker there because those joints actually can move by a small amount, which is a feature that counteracts some of the inflexibility of concrete. That can cause cracks in the blacktop.
Any other noticeable holes or cracks in the concrete should be repaired before asphalt is placed on top. Otherwise, those flaws could affect the blacktop relatively quickly. Any minor surface deterioration that has developed over the years should not be a problem.
Future Maintenance
If the foundation for the new blacktop is structurally sound, the installation by Paving Contractors in Madison CT should last for many years without developing noticeable problems. Occasional patching of small flaws will likely be necessary, and the edges will have to be shored up since asphalt edging tends to start crumbling over time.
Commercial Property
Sometimes, commercial property owners want to have a concrete parking lot or short private road repaved with asphalt and not be required to get the concrete removed first. Technicians from a company such as Sullivan Paving will evaluate the concrete to make sure repaving with blacktop is a suitable option. Often, this is a cost-effective way to make the surface smooth and attractive again. You can also visit them on Google My Business.
