Key takeaways:
- Asphalt is durable and can withstand heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions.
- It offers superior traction for improved safety.
- Asphalt requires low maintenance and is cost-effective in the long run.
- Asphalt has a smooth surface, making it safe and comfortable to walk on.
- It is slip-resistant, even in wet weather conditions.
- Asphalt absorbs sound well, creating a quieter environment for properties near residential areas.
- It is durable and can withstand spills and leaks that may occur on commercial properties.
- Standard Striping Inc. offers paving services to customers in Crofton, MD, and the surrounding areas.
Commercial property owners have several decisions to make regarding the construction or renovation of their buildings. One of the most critical choices is what type of material to use for the roof and pavement. Many business owners choose asphalt because it is durable, affordable, and easy to maintain.
Commercial properties are a considerable investment for any business. Choosing the suitable material for your business is vital to ensure that it lasts for many years and brings in a good ROI. Standard Paving & Concrete Inc. will discuss the top 12 reasons why asphalt is the best choice for commercial properties.
Asphalt Material
Asphalt is a sticky, black substance available as a highly viscous liquid or semi-solid petroleum product. It is usually found in natural deposits or refined products.
There are two main types of asphalt: hot mix asphalt and cold mix asphalt. Hot mix asphalt is made by heating the asphalt binder to a temperature of 300 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it easier to work with. Cold mix asphalt is made without heating the binder, making it more difficult to work with.
Composition
Asphalt consists of 70 to 80% by weight of bitumen, a semi-solid or solid form of black and sticky petroleum, and 30 to 20% by weight of aggregate, typically sand and gravel. It may also contain fillers and other materials.
Physical Properties
Asphalt has a density of approximately 0.92 to 0.96 g/cm3 (7 to 8 lb/cu ft) at 15 °C (59 °F). It melts at around 115 °C (239 °F) – 160 °C (320 °F) and boils at 315 °C (599 °F). At temperatures above 200 °C (392 °F), asphalt degrades due to pyrolysis, releasing volatile products such as propene, benzene, toluene, xylene, naphthalene, and anthracene.
12 Reasons Why Asphalt is the Best Choice for Commercial Properties
1. Chemical Properties
The primary use for asphalt is in road construction, which is used as glue or binder mixed with aggregate particles to create asphalt concrete. Its other main applications are for bituminous waterproofing products, including producing roofing felt and sealing flat roofs.
2. Durability
Asphalt is a very durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It is also resistant to damage from weathering, UV rays, and chemicals. It makes asphalt an ideal choice for commercial properties with a lot of foot traffic or areas with harsh weather conditions.
3. Low Maintenance
Asphalt requires very little maintenance compared to other materials such as concrete or brick. Once installed, it does not need to be sealed or repaired as often as other materials. It can save business owners a lot of money in the long run.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
Asphalt is one of the most cost-effective materials available for commercial paving projects. It is typically less expensive than concrete or brick and can be installed quickly and efficiently. It can help to save property owners money on installation and labor costs.
5. Flexibility
Asphalt is a very flexible material that can be used in various applications. It can be used for parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, and roofing shingles. It makes asphalt a versatile choice for commercial properties that have unique needs.
6. Easy to Install
Asphalt is relatively easy to install compared to other materials such as concrete or brick. It can be laid down quickly and efficiently by experienced professionals. It can help to save property owners money on installation costs.
7. Recyclable
Asphalt is 100% recyclable, which means it can be reused repeatedly without losing quality or performance. It makes it an environmentally-friendly choice for commercial paving projects.
Click here to learn about the strategies for improving the sustainability of asphalt pavements.
8. Looks Great
Asphalt provides a clean, crisp look that can enhance the curb appeal of any commercial property. It is available in various colors and can even be stamped or stenciled to create unique designs. It makes it an ideal choice for properties that want to make a good impression on customers or clients.
9. Good Traction
Asphalt has good traction, which helps to prevent accidents and injuries on commercial properties. Additionally, good traction helps to extend the life of asphalt surfaces by preventing premature wear and tear.
Asphalt affects traction in two ways. The first way that asphalt affects traction is by providing a surface that tires can grip onto. The texture of the asphalt surface provides tiny spaces for the tire treads to engage in. The second way that asphalt affects traction is by providing a surface resistant to sliding. The resistance to sliding is affected by the amount of asphalt in the mix and the age of the pavement.
The traction properties of asphalt also depend upon many factors, including the type of asphalt, the amount of asphalt in the mix, the age of the pavement, and the weather conditions. In general, newer pavements have better traction than older pavements, and pavements with more asphalt have better traction than those with less. Weather conditions can also affect traction; pavements are typically more slippery when wet or icy.
10. Asphalt Is Resistant to Chemicals
Asphalt surfaces resist many everyday chemicals, including gasoline, oil, and antifreeze. This resistance helps to prevent damage from spills and leaks that can occur on commercial properties. Additionally, it helps keep asphalt surfaces looking new for extended periods.
11. Asphalt Has a Smooth Surface
Asphalt has a very smooth surface, which makes it safe and comfortable to walk on. It is also slip-resistant and will not be dangerous in wet weather conditions.
12. Asphalt Is Quiet
Asphalt absorbs sound well, so it will not create much noise when people are walking on it. It makes it ideal for properties that are located near residential areas. Also, read our blog on what type of signage is most useful for your business.
Need Paving Services in Crofton, MD? No Problem!
If you need a paving company that can take on your Crofton, MD project, look no further than Standard Paving & Concrete Inc. We have 25 years of experience in paving services and a team of dedicated professionals passionate about their work. We’ll get the job done quickly and efficiently so you can enjoy your new pavement as soon as possible. Contact us today for a free estimate, and let’s get started on your project!
