What are the benefits of asphalt paving?
Asphalt pavement is economical as well as extremely durable for northern climates and is 100% recyclable and it provides the best rate of investment return of any paving material.

Why is tack coating needed?
To assure a strong bond between the succeeding layers of the older pavement.

What causes the cracks in my asphalt? All pavement failure starts with just one crack. Asphalt cracking is caused primarily by the effects of sun and moisture and ground movements. When asphalt is first put down it is flexible to these elements, but with age it becomes more rigid and is less able to tolerate vertical deflections. This causes a tension and the pulling apart of the pavement. Then finally breaking against the pressure it cracks. Once the crack is open, more moisture is able to reach the pavement's subsurface. And as time progresses, it seeps further and further away from the initial crack, softening all the material in the base that supports the asphalt surface. Soon the pavement begins to deteriorate around the crack, creating a larger problem. As temperatures vary, the crack will contract when warmer and expand when colder, contributing to the weakening of the material. The proper attention to the cracks will prevent the problems from spreading and double the life of the pavement.

What causes potholes?
Possible causes of potholes include asphalt that was too thin, base failure under heavy loads or poor drainage that weakens the subgrade and base. Poor quality, low asphalt content surfaces also may be a contributing factor.

What happens if I do not fill the cracks?
Those unsealed cracks will lead to spalling, break-outs, and pot holes. Potholes expand into major pavement failure and high cost repairs.

What causes alligator cracks?
Usually alligator cracking is caused by excessive deflection of the pavement due to an unstable base or due to repeated traffic loads heavier than what the road was built to withstand. If this cracking is not addressed then it will expand and cause more damage.

Why do the edges of roads so often deteriorate first?
Edge cracks are usually caused because there is not enough support next to the road or the base has washed out.

How much is the cost of asphalt? The soaring cost of petroleum -- a primary ingredient of asphalt -- has forced many paving companies to shoulder a 50 percent increase in costs. But by going to R & J Paving for the job, we can still get it to you cheaper because of the bulk we buy it in. So the price for the client, varies depending on the size of the project. Another factor in cost will be the amount of base preparation work needed.

How long do I need to stay off a newly paved asphalt surface? For a newly paved roadway, asphalt can be driven on as soon as the rolling is completed. However, for parking areas we recommend waiting 48 hours for the asphalt to cool completely before driving on it. This may vary depending on the time of year and location.

What is the standard thickness for asphalt pavement? The standard for pavement design in this area is 4 inches of aggregate base course and 2 inches of compacted asphalt. Standards may vary based on the amount and type of traffic that will be utilizing the pavement.

How long does asphalt pavement last? Pavement life can vary greatly depending on most importantly base conditions. Also, traffic, type of traffic and maintenance.