309 Paving Services

Mar 21, 2023

Key Takeaways:

  1. Asphalt overlay is a process where an existing paved surface is covered with a new layer of asphalt to renew its look and functionality, which can be done by either removing the existing asphalt pavement or simply resurfacing it.
  2. The benefits of getting an overlay for your property include: improving the overall look and feel, increasing durability, saving money in the long run, increasing safety, extending the lifespan of your pavement, and reducing costs of maintenance.
  3. To lay down an overlay, asphalt contractors follow these steps: cleaning, repairing, primer coat application, asphalt mix installation, and finishing touches.
  4. Hiring a professional contractor specializing in asphalt overlays is beneficial because they have experience and knowledge about correctly installing them with superior materials that will last longer.

Your commercial property is the first opportunity to make a lasting impression on customers and guests. Investing in its curb appeal, especially the parking lot, is critical for a successful business! Even though it can be challenging, developing a well-maintained parking area provides huge benefits. Not only does it improve customer experience, but it adds value to your property reputation as well.

But over time, faults can arise in your asphalt parking lot. These asphalt defects can negatively impact visitors’ opinions regarding the lot and business.

Have you ever heard about overlays but are still determining how they can help preserve your asphalt? 309 Paving Services shares its expert knowledge about asphalt overlay in this blog post.

What is Asphalt Overlay?

It is the process where an existing paved surface is covered with a new layer of asphalt to renew its look and functionality. You can do it by either removing the existing asphalt pavement or simply resurfacing it. Depending on what your property requires, each method provides its own unique set of benefits. The asphalt paving solution is used to restore the pavement’s strength and durability while patching up any existing cracks or damages.

If your asphalt assets are beginning to show signs of damage but have yet to require a complete replacement, overlays are an ideal solution.

Benefits of Asphalt Overlay

You should consider getting an overlay over your lot for many reasons!

1. Improve the Overall Look and Feel

As a property owner, you want to make an excellent first impression on visitors. That means having a property with a neat and polished look. Asphalt overlays significantly improve the overall look of your lot, giving it a smooth, clean finish that looks brand new.

2. Increase Durability

Asphalt is a highly resilient material, but aging roads and pathways can suffer from cracking and other damage. However, an asphalt overlay reinforces the pavement’s stability meaning it can stand up to extended use over time. With regular maintenance as part of its upkeep, asphalt paving will last for 15-30 years. So, you can rely on your driveway or pathway well into the future!

3. Saves Money in the Long Run

Overtime cracks and other issues can develop in the parking lot pavement. If left unchecked, they can result in a complete overhaul that can take its toll on your wallet. Overlays offer an ideal solution for maintaining the lot. Instead of having to redo the lot entirely, you can use an asphalt overlay to reinforce your existing pavement, saving you money in the long run.

4. Increases Safety

As a commercial property owner, you must prioritize removing any safety hazards. Failure to do so could see lawsuits and hefty fines in the future. It also includes your commercial lots.

Asphalt overlays provide a much smoother and safer surface for drivers than traditional asphalt. Any irregularities, such as cracks or potholes, will be addressed during the installation process, making for a consistent driving experience and reducing potential hazards. It makes it easier for people who are using wheelchairs or walkers to traverse over them without fear of tripping over bumps or other obstacles.

5. Extends the Life Span

Getting an asphalt overlay on your parking lot is like getting a brand-new layer of protection from damage caused by weather, wear, and tear, and regular use. The overlay will extend the life of your lot by sealing in any existing cracks and fissures and providing a durable new top layer that can withstand harsh conditions.

6. Reduces Costs of Maintenance

Asphalt overlays are designed to last for many years. Because these projects don’t need to be done as often, there is less money spent on regular maintenance such as crack repairs and resurfacing. An asphalt overlay also helps prevent future damage, which would require more costly repairs down the road.

Steps of Laying Down Asphalt Overlay

1. Cleaning

It involves clearing the surface of debris and loose material that could affect adhesion.

2. Repairing

Any significant cracks, bumps, or potholes are filled in with materials to make the surface even and ready for overlay.

3. Primer Coat Application

A primer coat is applied over the repaired area to improve the adhesion and durability of the asphalt overlay.

4. Asphalt Overlay Installation

Once the primer has dried, the asphalt mix is spread evenly over the entire lot and compacted until it reaches the desired thickness.

5. Finishing Touches

The contractors go back and make any final repairs, such as filling in large cracks or adding unique markings for parking spaces or other markings.

Related: How To Protect Your Business & Customers’ Cars From Potholes

Conclusion

An overlay is one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce up a driveway or parking lot. Hiring a professional contractor who can guarantee quality work and adhere to all applicable safety protocols is essential to get the best result from an asphalt overlay project. With their experience handling asphalt and related materials, you can rest assured that your pavement will look great for years to come!

Let the Professionals Handle Your Commercial Lot in Normal, IL

If you own a commercial lot in Normal, IL, and want an asphalt overlay done, consider 309 Paving Services. We provide clients with professional asphalt overlay services that ensure their pavement is in excellent condition and will last for years. We offer several services, including seal coating, patching, and crack sealing. Contact us today and get a free estimate for your paving project.