Professional Crushed Asphalt Services

Understanding The Benefits Of Crushed Asphalt

A sustainable and cost-effective paving solution

Crushed asphalt, also known as recycled asphalt pavement, is an incredibly resourceful material created by milling older, worn-out asphalt surfaces. This process not only keeps perfectly good materials out of landfills but also results in an aggregate that binds together securely over time. When compacted, the remaining tar content in the recycled material heats up and hardens, forming a resilient surface that closely mimics the durability of hot mix asphalt.

Choosing recycled asphalt offers a wide array of functional advantages for residential and commercial properties alike. It performs exceptionally well in extreme weather conditions, as the porous nature of the compacted aggregate allows for excellent water drainage, reducing the likelihood of pooling and subsequent structural damage. Additionally, it provides a rustic, textured aesthetic that complements various landscapes while remaining highly affordable compared to completely new pavement installations.

Expert preparation and precise compaction

A successful crushed asphalt installation begins with meticulous site preparation. Our experienced team first evaluates the terrain, ensuring that the subgrade is properly graded and capable of supporting the heavy loads expected on the surface. We clear away any organic debris, soft soil, and large rocks, creating a solid and uniform foundation. Proper grading at this stage is absolutely critical to guarantee that the final surface will drain runoff effectively and prevent future erosion.

Once the foundational work is complete, the milled asphalt is evenly distributed across the designated area. We utilize heavy-duty commercial graders and rollers to spread and compact the material tightly. The immense pressure from the rolling equipment forces the aggregate particles to lock together, activating the latent bitumen within the mix. This binding process ensures that the finished driveway or parking lot is highly stable, resistant to shifting, and ready to withstand daily vehicular traffic.

Preserving your investment with minimal effort

While crushed asphalt is celebrated for being low maintenance, a few proactive steps can significantly extend the lifespan of your surface. Because it is essentially a highly compacted gravel-like material, minor shifting can occur over an extended period of heavy use. Regularly raking out uneven areas and filling in small depressions before they become large potholes is a simple yet effective way to maintain a smooth and functional driving surface.

Weed control is another important aspect of maintaining your recycled pavement. Over time, airborne seeds can settle into the small crevices of the aggregate and sprout. Treating the perimeter and any sporadic weeds with a safe, standard herbicide will prevent root systems from loosening the compacted material. Keeping the surface clear of invasive vegetation ensures the structural integrity of the pavement remains completely intact.

Finally, considering a professional sealcoat after the material has fully settled can offer an added layer of protection. Although not strictly required for milled asphalt, a sealcoat can help lock the surface aggregate in place, further prevent moisture penetration, and refresh the dark, clean appearance of the driveway. Periodic professional inspections by Legacy Asphalt & Chip Seal can help determine if and when your surface would benefit from this extra level of care.