Name: Holloway Paving
Address: 2208 29 St SW Unit 3, Calgary, AB, T3E 2K2
Telephone: 403-975-3030

Your driveway is many things – a place to park your car, part of your home’s curb appeal, and one of the first things people see when they come to visit. Over time, even the most well-maintained driveways can start to show signs of wear and tear. And eventually, you’ll have to replace your asphalt driveway.

In this article, we’ll explore five signs that you’re in need of an asphalt driveway replacement. From potholes to drainage issues and fading colour, we’ll help you identify the signs that could be affecting the safety and appearance of your driveway. Let’s get started!

Cracks

One of the most common indications that your asphalt driveway needs to be replaced is noticeable cracks. Small cracks may not seem like a big deal at first, but they can slowly grow over time and become a more serious issue. Having cracks means that water can seep into the underlying layers of your driveway, which can cause further damage and lead to more expensive repairs down the line.

If you notice cracks in your driveway, it’s best to have them repaired as soon as possible. However, if there are too many cracks or they’re overly large, it may be time to consider replacing your driveway altogether.

Potholes

Another similar sign is the presence of potholes. Potholes can form when water seeps into the underlying layers (thanks to cracks!) of your driveway and freezes, causing the asphalt to expand and contract. This can result in the asphalt breaking apart, leaving behind a hole.

Potholes can be dangerous for your car and your family, and they’re certainly not aesthetically pleasing. Just like cracks, potholes need to be addressed right away.

Drainage Issues

If water is not draining properly from your driveway, it can lead to standing water, which can ruin the texture and appearance of your driveway and create safety hazards. Poor drainage can be caused by a variety of factors, including a sloping driveway, clogged gutters, or a damaged drainage system.

Fading Colour

Asphalt driveways are typically black or dark gray in colour. As the years go on, the colour of your driveway may start to fade or become lighter. This might be from exposure to the sun, weather, and other environmental factors.

While fading colour may not seem like a serious issue, it might be telling you that your asphalt is getting weaker. A sealant could be an effective solution in this case, but if your driveway doesn’t cooperate with it, it’s time for asphalt replacement.

Age

While asphalt driveways can last for many years with proper maintenance, they will eventually reach the end of their lifespan. If your driveway is more than 10 – 20 years old and is losing its smoothness and shine, contact the professionals. A new driveway will not only improve the appearance of your home, but it will also provide you with a safer and more functional place to park your car.

Choose Holloway Paving For Your Driveway Needs

If you’re ready for an asphalt driveway replacement, Holloway Paving is just a call away. We’ve proudly served Calgary and Southern Alberta for over 20 years, providing high-quality work for residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

Our services extend from asphalt maintenance and repair to fixing potholes and bumps and beyond. Contact us today for a free quote on any of our services!

Are you looking to upgrade the curb appeal of your home or business? Pathway paving provides a great opportunity to add a touch of sophistication that will draw the eye for years to come. There are two popular materials used in pathway paving: concrete and asphalt. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, making it essential for homeowners and businesses to be informed about their options before deciding which material is most suited to their needs. To help you make the right decision, we’ll take an in-depth look at both concrete and asphalt pathways. Let’s get started.

Concrete Pathways

Concrete paving is a cost-effective option when compared to the expense of interlocking tiles or pavement and can be a great addition to any outdoor space.

One of the primary advantages of using concrete pathways is their durability. They are also easy to clean and maintain with just a basic broom or pressure washer.

On the other hand, a major disadvantage is that concrete can be slippery when wet, making it an occasional hazard for pedestrians. In addition, concrete pathways that aren’t properly installed and maintained can crack due to soil movement or changes in temperature.

Because of concrete’s permanence, it’s difficult to make adjustments down the road if you decide you want a different style or design for your pathway. There’s no denying that concrete paving also takes more time to install than asphalt.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of concrete paving.

Pros of Concrete Paving:

Durability – Concrete paving is extremely durable and can last for many years without needing to be replaced.
Low Maintenance – Unlike asphalt paving which needs to be resealed periodically, concrete does not require as much maintenance.
Versatility – Concrete is versatile enough to be used in a variety of applications, such as driveways, patios, walkways, and more.

Cons of Concrete Paving:

Installation Time – Installing concrete can take much longer than other materials due to the need for drying time between each layer of material being applied.
Cracking – Although concrete is durable, it can still crack due to shifting soil or other environmental factors.
Costly Repairs – Over time, concrete can lead to unsightly cracks and require replacement in order to keep the area looking nice.

For added beauty, safety, and convenience, concrete pathways are an excellent choice for any outdoor space.

Asphalt Pathways

The strength, durability, and classic look of asphalt pathways make them one of the most popular choices. Aside from their attractiveness, asphalt pathways can also be cost-effective, low maintenance, and easy to install.

Especially in Canadian weather, asphalt is usually seen as the safest option for walkways due to its dark colour. This allows snow and ice to melt more quickly compared to lighter surfaces like concrete. Additionally, it provides a smoother experience for walking, biking, or skating.

However, asphalt paving may be more expensive because of its maintenance needs, and it doesn’t have the same longevity as concrete. For example, seal coating should be done every three years to keep the asphalt in good condition—more often than if you were using concrete.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of concrete paving.

Pros of Asphalt Paving:

Easy to install – Asphalt pathways are easy to install and can be completed quickly, allowing for a fast turnaround time from start to finish.

Aesthetic appeal – The natural black colour of asphalt makes a striking impression.

Cons of Asphalt Paving:

Maintenance – Asphalt pathways require regular maintenance, such as sealing, patching, and resurfacing, to maintain their appearance and prevent deterioration.
Shorter Lifespan – Compared to concrete, asphalt typically only lasts up to 25 years (less if not properly maintained).

By applying sealant and performing regular maintenance, you can extend your asphalt paving’s lifespan significantly. However, asphalt requires continual upkeep in order to remain effective.

Count on Holloway Paving’s Expertise

Ultimately, it is up to you which pathway paving best fits your home or business. Careful consideration of your individual needs and the area you live in can help you make the right choice for your pathway. Whether you prefer concrete or asphalt pathways, Holloway Paving has you covered if you need excellent paving work done. We are a leading paving company in Calgary and Southern Alberta, having operated for over twenty years.

Our services extend from asphalt maintenance and repair to concrete construction, no matter the size or scope. Contact us today for a free quote on any of our services!

Are you looking to upgrade the curb appeal of your home or business? Pathway paving provides a great opportunity to add a touch of sophistication that will draw the eye for years to come.

There are two popular materials used in pathway paving: concrete and asphalt. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, making it essential for homeowners and businesses to be informed about their options before deciding which material is most suited to their needs.

To help you make the right decision, we’ll take an in-depth look at both concrete and asphalt pathways. Let’s get started.

Concrete Pathways

Concrete paving is a cost-effective option when compared to the expense of interlocking tiles or pavement and can be a great addition to any outdoor space.

One of the primary advantages of using concrete pathways is their durability. They are also easy to clean and maintain with just a basic broom or pressure washer.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of concrete paving.

Pros of Concrete Paving:

Durability – Concrete paving is extremely durable and can last for many years without needing to be replaced.
Low Maintenance – Unlike asphalt paving which needs to be resealed periodically, concrete does not require as much maintenance.
Versatility – Concrete is versatile enough to be used in a variety of applications, such as driveways, patios, walkways, and more.

Cons of Concrete Paving:

Installation Time – Installing concrete can take much longer than other materials due to the need for drying time between each layer of material being applied.
Cracking – Although concrete is durable, it can still crack due to shifting soil or other environmental factors.
Costly Repairs – Over time, concrete can lead to unsightly cracks and require replacement in order to keep the area looking nice.

For added beauty, safety, and convenience, concrete pathways are an excellent choice for any outdoor space.

Asphalt Pathways

Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of concrete paving.

Pros of Asphalt Paving:

Easy to install – Asphalt pathways are easy to install and can be completed quickly, allowing for a fast turnaround time from start to finish.

Aesthetic appeal – The natural black colour of asphalt makes a striking impression.

Cons of Asphalt Paving:

Maintenance – Asphalt pathways require regular maintenance, such as sealing, patching, and resurfacing, to maintain their appearance and prevent deterioration.
Shorter Lifespan – Compared to concrete, asphalt typically only lasts up to 25 years (less if not properly maintained).

By applying sealant and performing regular maintenance, you can extend your asphalt paving’s lifespan significantly. However, asphalt requires continual upkeep in order to remain effective.

Count on Holloway Paving’s Expertise

Whether you prefer concrete or asphalt pathways, Holloway Paving has you covered if you need excellent paving work done. We are a leading paving company in Calgary and Southern Alberta, having operated for over twenty years.

Our services extend from asphalt maintenance and repair to concrete construction, no matter the size or scope. Contact us today for a free quote on any of our services!

Are you tired of the bumps and potholes that form on your gravel driveway? Looking for a way to make it easier to drive up and down your driveway with less maintenance required? Look no further because upgrading your gravel driveway to asphalt is the right solution.

While gravel driveways present a more natural appearance and are a more affordable option, they also have a number of drawbacks that should be taken into account.

In this article, we’ll look at the four top reasons asphalt driveways offer superior performance and better value, and explain why it might be time to make the switch.

Gravel Needs to Be Frequently Replenished

Gravel driveways are a popular option for many people because they are relatively low-cost and easy to install. However, they also require regular maintenance in order to look good and remain safe.

One of the key aspects of maintaining a gravel driveway is constantly replenishing it with new material. Gravel can be easily displaced by traffic or weather conditions such as rain or snow. This displacement causes ruts, cracks, and other irregularities that can become dangerous if left unchecked.

Gravel is also constantly replenished to prevent weeds from taking hold which can make the driveway appear unkempt. In no way is this maintenance convenient.

On the other hand, asphalt is a firm, solid material that can last for up to 20 years with proper maintenance before it needs to be replaced.

Gravel is Not Ideal For Snow Removal

Gravel and snow don’t get along very well. Gravel driveways are not ideal for snow removal because of the way the stones shift when exposed to extreme temperatures, making it difficult to plow or shovel a gravel driveway.

The shifting stones can also cause a bumpy surface which is hard and uncomfortable to walk on in winter conditions.

As gravel absorbs moisture from snow and ice, it becomes heavy and compacted, so any kind of snow removal equipment will struggle to remove it efficiently. Frozen or wet gravel can create an uneven surface that makes driving hazardous if you don’t have a four-wheel drive.

In comparison, an asphalt surface is much more resilient to snowplows scraping it than gravel. It can be easily cleaned and treated with salt when necessary, as it is designed to tolerate freezing temperatures and subsequent thawing.

Gravel Lacks Aesthetic Appeal

While gravel can come in many aesthetically pleasing colours and textures, even the most premium gravel has an unfinished and unprofessional appearance.

Gravel driveways often aren’t visually appealing because they are made up of small, loose stones that can easily be scattered by the wind or driven over, leaving an uneven and unsightly surface. The size and colour of the gravel used in a driveway may be inconsistent, resulting in a patchy look.

In contrast, asphalt driveways provide a consistently clean appearance due to their smoothness and resistance to wear.

Gravel Is Noisy

The high noise level produced by gravel driveways is a distinct disadvantage that is often overlooked. This noise is created by car tires rolling over the small stones which make up the surface of the driveway.

The sound can become especially loud when vehicles with low-profile tires travel on them. This is especially true when there is heavy rain, which causes puddles to form on the rocks and creates splashing noises when vehicles pass over them.

In order to reduce noise levels on a gravel driveway, homeowners can consider installing either smaller or smoother stones. Adding a thin layer of sand over the top of the surface will also help keep rocks in place and lessen sound due to shifting gravel particles.

However, for those seeking a home driveway that simply functions as intended without requiring a lot of maintenance, these measures may quickly start to feel like a burden.

Professional Asphalt Paving Services in Calgary

Switching from a gravel to an asphalt driveway is a decision worth making. Asphalt offers superior durability, cost savings over time, and improved safety. Plus, it significantly boosts curb appeal. It’s no wonder why so many homeowners are making the switch nowadays.

If you are looking for high-quality asphalt pavement services, Holloway Paving is the company to call. In business for more than 20 years, they have built a reputation for producing high-quality work for a wide range of clients.

For a free quote on any of their services, contact them today!

Asphalt pavement is a vital part of our transportation infrastructure, providing a smooth and safe surface for vehicles to travel on. Its affordability and durability make it the material of choice for many roadway and parking lot projects.

The structure of asphalt pavement is designed to support the weight of traffic and withstand the forces of nature, while also providing drainage and flexibility to minimize cracking and potholes. Knowing how the layers of its structure work together makes proper design and construction possible to ensure a long-lasting asphalt pavement.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different layers that make up asphalt pavement to better understand their characteristics.

Composition of Asphalt Pavement

Asphalt pavement is generally made up of four main layers, namely subgrade, subbase, base, and surfacing course. Each layer has different materials and properties that contribute to the overall strength and flexibility of asphalt pavement.

Subgrade

Typically composed of native soil or stabilized material, the subgrade provides a foundation for the pavement structure. It must be compacted and free of soft spots to provide a stable base for the other layers.

While some soils contain clay materials that are classified as unstable, they can be stabilized by mixing with lime, cement, or similar additives before compaction. Recycled materials like crushed concrete, reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), or a combination, can also be used in the subgrade layer.

When you have a solid subgrade layer, it will resist deformation from the weight of traffic and minimize cracking in the pavement, which reduces construction costs.

Subbase

Added on top of the subgrade, the subbase layer provides additional support and stability to the pavement. Common materials used are granular fill, crushed rock, lean concrete, and manufactured aggregate.

The particles in the subbase material are usually larger than those in the subgrade to allow better drainage. It also prevents smaller particles from being pushed up into the asphalt pavement during compaction.

While it’s not always necessary to have a subbase, a well-designed one will increase the overall lifespan of your asphalt pavement by distributing traffic loads and minimizing settlements. It can also be used as a stand-alone pavement in certain applications.

Base

The base layer is the main support for the asphalt pavement and can be made up of unstabilized or stabilized aggregates. Its thickness ranges from 4 to 6 inches, depending on the soil bearing capacity and traffic loads.

The base material is spread and compacted to achieve a high density for strength and durability. It must be able to resist the shearing force of traffic while also providing drainage to prevent water from saturating the base and subgrade layers.

Surface

As the topmost layer of the asphalt pavement, the surface must be able to withstand the wear and tear of traffic. It is usually made up of a hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixture, which is a combination of asphalt binder, filler, and aggregate.

The surface layer is generally divided into two sub-layers, namely the binder course and the wearing course. The binder course serves to bind the various materials together to provide structure to the HMA, while the wearing course ensures a smooth and wear-resistant surface for traffic.

A good surface layer can resist the effects of weather and aging, minimize tire noise, provide skid resistance, and improve drainage to provide a long-lasting driving surface.

Know what asphalt pavement looks like

Asphalt pavement is a complex structure made up of different layers, each with its own materials and properties that contribute to the strength and flexibility of the overall structure. A well-designed and constructed asphalt pavement will have a solid subgrade layer to provide a stable foundation, a subbase layer for additional support, and a base layer made up of high-density aggregates. The surface layer should be smooth and wear-resistant, with good skid resistance and drainage.

Every single year, millions of tons of asphalt pavement are removed from roads and parking lots across the country.

In fact, asphalt is one of the most recycled materials in the world. Asphalt is a very durable material, and with proper maintenance, asphalt pavement can last for decades. But even well-maintained asphalt will eventually need to be removed and replaced. When that happens, asphalt recycling is a great way to reduce waste and save money.

But what is asphalt recycling and how does it work?

What is asphalt pavement?

Asphalt pavement is a mixture of two key ingredients: asphalt binder or bitumen and crushed aggregate (stone, sand, or gravel). The asphalt binder is a sticky black substance that helps glue and bind the aggregate together.

The finished product we see on roads and parking lots is typically about 90 to 95 percent aggregate and 5 to 10 percent asphalt binder.

What is asphalt recycling?

Asphalt recycling is the process of taking old asphalt and crushing it down into smaller pieces. The crushed material can then be used as a base for new asphalt pavement. It’s a closed-loop system: old asphalt is removed, crushed, and used to make new pavement.

According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, more than 87 million tons of asphalt were recycled into new mixes in 2020. Using recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) saves $3.3 billion every year and reduces the need for mining new materials.

How is asphalt recycled?

There are many methods for recycling asphalt, such as hot-in-place or cold-in-place recycling (CIPR) and full-depth recycling (FDR). But generally, asphalt recycling involves these steps:

The top layer of old asphalt is removed with a milling machine in a process called asphalt milling.
Pieces of crushed old asphalt, called chunks or millings, are mixed with some water and additives in an asphalt recycler.
For hot recycling, the recycler heats and combines the mixture to create recycled asphalt pavement. On the other hand, cold-mix asphalt is kept cold during the mixing process.
The new mix is then placed back down on the road as new pavement. Often, recycled asphalt pavement is used as a base or subbase layer for new construction projects.
Some of the asphalt that’s removed during milling can also be used as a base for new asphalt.

What are the benefits of using recycled asphalt?

Most asphalt pavements are removed because they’ve reached the end of their useful life, but it doesn’t mean they can’t be used again. Here are the top benefits of using recycled asphalt:

It reduces the need for mining new materials: Every ton of RAP used in new asphalt pavement saves a lot on virgin asphalt binder, which means that we can use less new material.
It cuts down on emissions: The production of asphalt pavement generates a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling old asphalt pavement reduces those emissions by up to 25 percent.
It’s cheaper than using new materials: It costs less to produce new asphalt pavement from RAP than it does to use virgin materials. In fact, the U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that using RAP can save up to $10 per ton.

Recycled asphalt is good RAP

Recycled asphalt is a popular choice for many reasons: it’s environmentally friendly, cheaper than virgin asphalt, and as strong and durable as new asphalt. Asphalt recycling not only saves money but also reduces waste and helps to sustain our environment. Virgin asphalt material may be requested or required for specific projects but in most cases, asphalt mix containing RAP is generally used for parking lots, driveways, pathways and more.

Holloway Paving uses both RAP and virgin materials. We also haul all excavated, old asphalt to a recycling facility for all of the reasons stated above. Let’s do our part for the environment and keep your budget while updating your asphalt pavement. Call us today for a free quote (403) 975-3030

Asphalt is one of the most widely used construction materials. It’s found on highways and byways, in driveways and parking lots, in playgrounds and recreational areas – even on airport runways.

However, it is also one of the most vulnerable materials to damage from weather, wear and tear, and poor maintenance. Cracks, potholes, and other surface damage can quickly turn a smooth asphalt surface into an unsightly and dangerous mess.

To keep your asphalt surfaces in good condition and extend their lifespan significantly, here are some asphalt maintenance tips that you should keep in mind.

1. Perform routine inspections

Regularly inspecting your asphalt surfaces is the best way to catch problems early on. It’s best to do this at least once a month, but more often if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions where surfaces are exposed to sunlight, rain, hot and cold temperatures, and snow.

During your inspection, look for any cracks, holes, or other surface damage. If you find any, make a note of their location and size so you can repair them as soon as possible.

2. Clean and remove debris regularly

Debris such as leaves, sticks, and garbage can accumulate on your asphalt surfaces over time. This can not only make your property look unkempt, but it can also speed up the deterioration of your asphalt.

To keep your surfaces clean, sweep them regularly with a broom or leaf blower. You should also remove any gum or other sticky substances as soon as you see them. These can be difficult to remove once they’ve hardened, so it’s best to take care of them right away.

3. Sealcoat your asphalt surfaces

Sealcoating is one of the most important things you can do to prolong the life of your asphalt by as much as 30 years.

The process involves applying a special coating to the surface of your asphalt. This coating helps protect the asphalt from damage caused by weather, sunlight, and other elements like oil and gas spills, which can cause cracking and other forms of deterioration.

Ideally, it should be done every two to three years, or more often if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.

4. Fill in cracks and potholes right away

When you find cracks or potholes in your asphalt surfaces, it’s important to fill them in as soon as they appear. This will help prevent the damage from spreading and becoming worse.

Small cracks can quickly turn into larger ones, so it’s important to nip them in the bud before they get out of hand. Potholes are also a tripping hazard and can cause damage to vehicles, so it’s best to fill them in as soon as they form.

There are various materials you can use to fill in cracks and potholes, such as cold-mix asphalt, asphalt emulsion, or concrete. But for more serious damage such as large cracks or deep potholes, it’s best to hire a professional paving company like Holloway Paving to make the repairs.

5. Resolve drainage problems immediately

If you have any drainage problems on your property, it’s important to fix it immediately to avoid damage to your asphalt surfaces. Standing water can quickly cause surface damage that leads to the formation of cracks and potholes.

It’s best to hire a professional to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. This may involve installing a drainage system like catch basins or French drains, or regrading the land around your property to ensure proper drainage.

6. Maintain asphalt surfaces during winter

During the winter season, it’s important to take extra care of your asphalt surfaces to prevent damage from the cold weather. Snow and ice can quickly cause surface damage that leads to cracks and potholes, so it’s important to clear them away as soon as possible.

To protect your asphalt surfaces during winter, have a professional apply a sealcoat before the season starts to create a barrier against many elements.

Proper Asphalt Maintenance and Repairs in Calgary

Asphalt maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your surfaces and ensuring the safety of your property. With the tips above, you can keep your surfaces in good condition longer and save on costly repairs.

For all your asphalt maintenance and repair needs in Calgary, trust only the experts at Holloway Paving. As the number 1 paving company in Calgary and Southern Alberta, we offer a wide range of services, from asphalt maintenance and repair to concrete construction.

For a free quote, book your consultation with us today.

As discussed in our previous blog post, potholes are a type of asphalt failure that can be caused by a variety of issues from poor construction, an eroded base, freeze, and thaw cycles to name a few. Once a pothole is developed, it’s important to call an asphalt paving professional to identify the root causes and provide a solution.

Ways to Fix a Pothole

There are several methods that can be used to fill potholes and repair them. Here are the most common fixes, starting with short-term to long-term: pothole patch, skin patch, and cut-out patch.

Pothole Patch

For pothole patching, our crew shovels or uses equipment to place asphalt mix into the pothole. The asphalt is then compacted using a roller or tamper, and this process is repeated when necessary. This solution can be short-term and usually does not address root causes.

Holloway Paving performs pothole repairs with hot-mix asphalt. Cold-mix asphalt is usually a temporary fix during the winter months until a more permanent fix can be made.

Skin Patch

Skin Patching involves placing a layer of new asphalt over suitable, unbroken asphalt that has settled over time due to improper placement or base failure. Skin patches are best applied over sunken asphalt that has not crumbled but has a divot or a “bird bath” in the asphalt surface.

The advantage of skin patching is that the process is fairly fast and has less traffic disruption when compared to options that involve excavation.

Cut-out and Patch

Dig-out and patching involves saw-cutting a large square around the pothole and with equipment, completely removing the asphalt layers surrounding the hole. The pothole is then repaired, the aggregate base re-graded and compacted to stabilize the area. Then new asphalt is laid and compacted to make the surface smooth again. This is the best solution because it addresses root causes and provides the structure necessary to support the asphalt.

Contact The Experts At Holloway Paving

It is normally necessary to hire a paving expert to properly fix potholes because they can get complex. If you are experiencing any type of asphalt pavement failure, from potholes to cracks, you may reach out to us by calling (403) 975-3030 or by sending us an email at info@hollowaypaving.ca for a free quote today!

From parking lots, driveways, roadways and pathways; asphalt is everywhere. If you are a homeowner, property manager, or even a driver, chances are you’ve seen and experienced asphalt failures like potholes, ruts or snake-like ripples.

Here is a list of the most common asphalt pavement failures. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be able to identify potential problems early on and take the necessary steps to prevent them from getting worse.

1. Cracking

One of the most common asphalt pavement issues is cracking. Cracks can occur for various reasons, including overloading, poor drainage and environmental factors. They can also be caused by settlement or movement of the underlying soil.

If left unrepaired, cracks allow water beneath the asphalt surface and cause the base structure to lose compaction (usually gravel). In time, the cracks will get bigger and cause more problems.

You can prevent cracking by seal coating your asphalt every few years. The seal coat will create a barrier to environmental factors. Cracks that measure between 1/4 inch to 1 inch are repairable and should be addressed immediately by an asphalt professional.

2. Potholes

Potholes are another common problem that can be particularly damaging to vehicles. Potholes form when water seeps into cracks in the pavement and then freezes, which expands and weakens the asphalt. They can also be caused by a weak or failing asphalt base, deterioration on the surface or poor asphalt mix.

Avoid the risk of forming potholes by patching any cracks or divots that form as soon as possible and having your driveway or parking lot seal-coated every few years. For asphalt depressions, pooling areas of water and persistent areas, an asphalt professional should provide a full assessment to identify root causes.

3. Raveling

Raveling is when the surface of the asphalt begins to break down and crumble. It’s usually caused by poor quality asphalt, inadequate compaction during construction, or water damage. Raveling can also be accelerated by traffic, particularly heavy trucks.

Raveling can be prevented by using a sealer. However, if you do experience ravelling, you’ll need to have the damaged areas repaired as soon as possible to avoid more severe asphalt failures.

4. Edge Damage

Last but not least, edge damage is a common issue caused by a lack of support at the asphalt edges. This damage can be due to erosion, an improperly compacted base or no base at all. Edge cracking can be accelerated by heavy traffic or regular traffic driving over the edge of the pavement, which can cause cracking, travelling, and eventual failure.

Edge cracking can be treated by crack filling, but if the problem persists, you should contact an asphalt professional to assess the root causes and reconstruct the asphalt base.

Final Thoughts

If you want to keep your asphalt pavement in good condition for years to come, it’s important to be on the lookout for common problems. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be able to take action quickly and prevent minor issues from turning into major ones.

If you have any experience with common asphalt pavement issues, you may reach out to Holloway Paving for the solution. From potholes to cracks, they know how to fix it all! Holloway Paving is a full-service asphalt paving company serving Calgary and the surrounding areas. Contact Holloway Paving today for a free quote!

Asphalt is one of the most commonly used materials in road construction. It has a long lifespan and is relatively cheap to produce, which is why it is a popular choice for builders. However, there are ways to extend the asphalt’s lifespan and ensure that it lasts as long as possible.

Here we’ll take a look at five ways to achieve this. Let’s go!

1. Preventing Water Damage

Water damage is one of the leading causes of asphalt deterioration. When water seeps into cracks in the asphalt, it can cause the formation of potholes and other depressions.

In addition, water can also wash away the gravel and other materials that make up the asphalt surface, leaving a weak and uneven foundation. Thus, it is vital to take steps to prevent water damage to extend the lifespan of your asphalt.

One way to prevent water damage is to seal any cracks or gaps in the asphalt surface. By sealing these openings, you can help keep water from seeping into the asphalt and causing damage.

You should also regularly check the drainage around your property and ensure that any rainwater is directed away from the asphalt surface. By taking these simple steps, you can help prevent water damage and keep your asphalt looking new for years to come.

2. Patch any cracks or holes as soon as you notice them

Another way to keep your asphalt in good condition is to repair any cracks or potholes as soon as you notice them. Left unchecked, these can grow and become larger problems that are much more difficult (and expensive) to fix.

To repair cracks or potholes, it is best to contact an asphalt maintenance professional like Holloway Paving.

3. Sealcoat your asphalt every few years

The sealcoat is a protective layer that helps shield the asphalt from damage caused by weathering, UV rays, and other environmental factors.

A sealcoat also makes it easier to clean the asphalt and prevent staining. It is best to apply a sealcoat every two to three years, depending on the asphalt’s traffic.

4. Quickly remove snow and ice in the winter

Asphalt is durable but can be susceptible to damage from harsh winter weather conditions. Maintaining your asphalt during the winter months is important in extending its lifespan.

Snow and ice can accumulate on the surface of the asphalt, causing it to crack and develop potholes. To prevent this damage, it is crucial to remove snow and ice regularly.

5. Clean up any spills or stains immediately

Asphalt requires some care to ensure it remains in good condition. To keep your asphalt’s appearance in top shape, be sure to remove dirt and grime regularly. It is also important to monitor for spills or stains from oil products that may cause deep staining. Be sure to tend to these immediately.

Final words

By following these simple tips, the life of your asphalt can be extended and look its best for years to come.

If your asphalt needs professional maintenance, resurfacing or replacement, contact Holloway Paving at (403) 975-3030 for a free estimate.

No matter what kind of asphalt paving you’re installing, proper drainage is key to keeping it looking its best and ensuring it lasts as long as possible. In fact, it’s safe to say that proper drainage is the most important factor in asphalt longevity. Here are our top five reasons why water drainage is so important for asphalt pavements.

Prevents Surface Wear and Tear

Despite seeming relatively harmless, water is actually one of asphalt’s worst enemies. With asphalt being a crude-oil product, water and asphalt simply don’t mix, just as oil and water don’t mix. Puddles will quickly form on asphalt pavements lacking proper drainage, which is why most professional asphalt contractors will grade any surface they pave to allow for proper drainage.

In addition to grading an asphalt pavement to improve drainage, routine maintenance is essential for protecting asphalt from water damage. Regular maintenance like crack sealing, patching, and asphalt seal coating will prevent water from seeping through the porous asphalt and causing potholes and other structural damage.

Avoids Potholes and Structural Damage

When it pools on the asphalt surface, water gradually breaks the bonds between the asphalt binder and slowly seeps into the layers under the asphalt, like the aggregate base and subbase. Over time, this water saturates the supporting materials until they eventually give way under load and potholes form.

These potholes, in turn, expose more of the bottom layers to the elements and make them further susceptible to water damage – leading to significant structural damage if left unchecked. So, it stands to reason that you would want to avoid water pooling on top of asphalt for extended periods, and the only way to avoid this is through proper drainage.

Drainage Prevents Freeze-Thaw Damage

Another reason why water drainage is so important for asphalt pavements is because water expands when freezing. What this means is that any water that seeps through the porous asphalt will expand once frozen, heaving the asphalt upward and causing cracks from the bottom up. Come spring, this frozen water will begin to melt and the cracks left behind become more evident, eventually turning into potholes and causing potential major issues down the line.

Protects the Layers Below the Asphalt

As we saw above, water can often find its way under an asphalt pavement’s surface, regardless of grading and surface drains. One of the main reasons for major water damage in asphalt pavements is poor subsurface drainage. This can be achieved in a number of ways, including by using a non-porous subgrade, installing drain tiles below the surface connected to a catch basin or storm pipe, and crowning the surface to direct water toward gutter systems at the sides.

Ideally, water would flow directly into a drain or gutter, but the important thing here is to get water off the pavement as quickly as possible regardless of the method used.

Protects More than Just the Pavement

Proper asphalt pavement drainage directs water not only away from the pavement, but also from any surrounding buildings and structures. Water seeping through the asphalt pavement and eroding the subgrade beneath could potentially expose nearby foundations to water damage over time. However, proper asphalt pavement drainage prevents excessive water from accumulating around foundations and thus helps maintain their integrity.

Asphalt Paving Services You Can Trust

Trusted for generations, Holloway Paving has been serving Calgary and the surrounding areas for over two decades. Renowned for our commitment to excellence, we take pride in offering asphalt paving services you can rely on, backed by the high standards set by our name and history. Reach out to us today at 403-975-3030 or contact us online for a free quote on any of our services.