From time to time, you’ll find concrete streets and driveways that have an asphalt overlay on them. Putting asphalt over concrete is done for several reasons, but does have its drawbacks.
The Truth About Asphalt Over Concrete
An asphalt overlay is cheaper to install than replacing concrete and can provide a smooth ride over deteriorating concrete. It will, however, require a little more maintenance than a typical asphalt overlay.
When concrete deteriorates, it draws and holds moisture. During the winter that moisture freezes and continues to break the concrete down. When you do an asphalt overlay on concrete the deteriorated concrete areas will rise and fall with the freeze-thaw cycle. That rising and falling will lift up and possibly crack the asphalt overlay, creating a pothole. This pothole will need to be repaired.
So depending on how bad the concrete is before you do an asphalt overlay will determine how long the asphalt overlay will last.
Extending the Life of Your Asphalt Overlay
One way to get a longer lasting asphalt overlay over concrete is to remove and replace just the bad areas of concrete instead of entire concrete slabs. Once you repair the bad areas you can do your asphalt overlay. This method will provide you with a longer lasting driving surface with less maintenance than if you had done an overlay on top of bad concrete.
Featured Project: Asphalt Overlay in Maryland Heights, MO
Patching a damaged surface with asphalt is a cost-effective solution that can slow deterioration. Hutkin Development Company took this approach at their office, with an existing surface mill and asphalt overlay. See more examples of overlays in St. Louis in our portfolio.
There are additional things that can be done prior to the overlay to get the maximum life out of it. For example, different types of asphalt fabric can be installed to reduce the amount of reflective cracking that can occur in an asphalt overlay on concrete. You can also mill or grind the concrete prior to the overlay to ensure the new asphalt overlay will have a good bond to the concrete.
Work With Local Experts
Thinking about an asphalt or concrete overlay in St. Louis, MO? We know this can be a lot to consider. If you have any questions about your commercial paving project, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re happy to answer them based on our 45 years of experience.
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