There are two difficult things about asphalt: laying it down and taking it up. The difference between them, besides the purpose of the action, is the complexity of the process. Laying asphalt is relatively simple, if time consuming. However, taking it up requires a lot of labor, using lots of tools and machines—or it used to before infrared technology. This new process allows asphalt to be taken up and reused far more quickly, resulting in a simpler process that recycles the old asphalt into a new form on-site. (more…)
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Archive for the ‘Asphalt Paving’ Category
The Advantages of Infrared Repairs
Sunday, April 19th, 2015How to Keep Your Driveway Free of Cracks
Wednesday, April 15th, 2015
Have you got cracks in your concrete or asphalt?
This past winter was full of snow and that meant lots of potholes for spring. Now, we’ve got to watch out for little plants pushing their way through the cracks in your pavement. The reason your concrete or asphalt might crack is two-fold. The first reason that might contribute is moisture, and we’ve had a lot of that. The second thing that can lead to cracking is a lot of changes in temperature. With this past winter, we’ve had a lot of both. So, let’s check out some ways you can minimize the cracks in your pavement. (more…)
Pothole Season Has Begun
Wednesday, March 18th, 2015
These little fellas can become dangerous problems if left unchecked.
It’s been quite a winter with lots of snow, ice, and rain. You know what that means? This Spring is going to be a season filled with caving pavement. Potholes are not only unsightly; they are also quite dangerous depending on their locations and their severity. Areas that are highly trafficked are much more likely to develop a pothole, but they can happen anywhere, even in your driveway.
How do they happen?
When moisture gets into the asphalt and freezes it expands. This expansion pushes the surface of the road upwards, warping and weakening it. When the ice thaws a hole is left behind beneath the surface of the road. If this happens enough times either during the winter or in spring, when everything thaws, the roadway will collapse and create a pothole. Potholes can range in size from very small (a soccer ball) to enormous (A car). Obviously, the larger the hole the more dangerous it can be. However, another issue with potholes is their location. Some roads are placed above waterways or sewer systems and when these roads collapse serious problems are at hand.
What can I do?
Well, for starters you should most definitely call the city if the pothole is spotted on a state roadway. If the pothole occurs on your property in your driveway or other paved surface then you should call your local paving company so that you get your road repaired. You wouldn’t want a little rabbit or your dog to fall into the hole and hurt themselves would you? Of course not. That’s why it is essential to place a protective barrier around the pothole so that little critters, children, or other people won’t hurt themselves on the hazard. This barrier can be something as simple as a recycling bin with a sign on it or a more sophisticated apparatus. What matters is that it is visible. Then you just need to wait for help to come and repave the problem for you.
If you’re in need of a pothole repair then contact the Tri-State Paving Company. You can reach them by phone, 610.563.9456 (West Chester), 610.932.3566 (Oxford), or 302.757.4100 (Delaware). You can also find them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.
Winter Care Tips for your Asphalt
Monday, February 23rd, 2015
We just had our first real taste of winter this year with this past week’s snowstorm. If you haven’t done anything to care for or protect your property’s asphalt yet, now is the time to take action before the next storm hits. The mixture of snow, sleet, salt, and freezing temperatures can definitely take a toll on your roads. Technically, preparing your asphalt for winter should begin in the summer. However, snow isn’t really the first thing you think about in blazing hot temperatures. So, we’ll begin with winter care tips you can use this season, and follow with tips to keep in mind to prepare for next season.
For this season:
- Snow removal. Removing snow from your roadways or parking lots is very important. Hiring a professional to do the job is even more important. Professionals know how to properly remove the snow without doing damage to the road.
- Be aware. You’ll want to make sure you keep an eye on the asphalt throughout the winter for cracking, potholes, and other harmful effects resulting from the snow and cold weather. Be sure to get small damages fixed right away to prevent them from turning into much larger problems.
For next season:
- Have the asphalt sealed. This will help to keep water from soaking into the pavement and causing damage. Sealing in small cracks and areas in the summer and fall months will help you avoid the melting and freezing process that can occur under the asphalt in the winter months. The constant melting and freezing causes the asphalt to expand and contract over and over again, resulting in big potholes.
So before you do any more damage to your asphalt, be sure to keep these winter care tips in mind! Fixing small problems now will save you in the long run.
If you’re looking to repair your asphalt this season, or sealcoat your asphalt next season, call Tristate Paving! We specialize in sealcoating and infrared asphalt repair, which you can read about here. We serve both commercial and residential properties.
If you want to keep your asphalt looking and performing great, then contact us for professional asphalt services. Our experienced paving professionals have plenty of experience and can take care of your asphalt needs quickly, and at an affordable price. At Tristate Paving we take great pride in our customer service, so give us a call today!
Our area numbers are:
West Chester: 610.563.9456
Oxford: 610.932.3566
Delaware: 302.757.4100
Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.
Repaving and Romance
Monday, February 9th, 2015
It may seem unusual, but it’s true: Repaving your driveway can definitely show your mate how much you care. Let’s say you want to give your significant other a gift this Valentine’s Day. You want to get them something extravagant, something flashy. You could get them some jewelry, but that seems too obvious. If you’re looking for something that’s both impressive and practical you can invest in repaving their driveway.
Why is this romantic?
If you and your partner have been together for a long time then it’s possible that you’ve had some bumps and bruises in your relationship. Maybe they’ve lost someone close to them, maybe you have. In a way, that cracked pavement outside of your house is probably symbolic of some cracks in your life. Why not repave it? Why not use this opportunity to repave your life as well. You can share your vision for a newly paved driveway with your mate and show them that you wish to repave your lives together.
What are my options?
Maybe you don’t need to repave your driveway, but there are many more options for you and your partner. Hardscaping projects often combine practical needs with aesthetic vision. You and your loved one can plan one together, share your ideas, and fall in love all over again. You can add that pond you always dreamed of and they can choose the type of stone. Designing something together will show you different sides of one another. Maybe your partner has a gift you never knew about, or maybe you have a real eye for shape you can share. Building something new together will rekindle the flame between you and every time you look at that project you will be reminded of how strong your bond is.
Bonds as strong as stone.
It may seem cheesy to make grand gestures for the one you love, or to repave your driveway together, but creativity goes a long way. Using creative, unusual methods of bonding shows that you are thinking more deeply about your relationship than just choosing the obvious methods of bonding.
If you’re ready to build a stronger future with your mate contact the Tri-State Paving Company. You can reach them by phone, 610.563.9456 (West Chester), 610.932.3566 (Oxford), or 302.757.4100 (Delaware). You can also find them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.
Do I Need to Replace, Repair, or Resurface My Driveway?
Friday, January 16th, 2015There’s nothing quite like driving down a long stretch of exquisite asphalt. However, while driveways are an important portion of any home, they’re also somewhat costly. That’s why many homeowners, upon noticing driveway damage, will attempt to patch it up rather than opt for resurfacing or replacing. While this can cost less in the short run, if the damage is extensive enough, it will only lead to more problems, costing you quite a lot later. Tristate paving is here with a guide to knowing when you can patch your driveway, and when you need to resurface or replace.
When to Repair
Between water damage caused by freezing and thawing over the seasons, and the sheer work of supporting heavy cars that roll over them daily, driveways take a lot of abuse. If you spot cracks that have a width of less than ¼ in, you probably only have surface level damage and this can easily be fixed with a liquid crack-filler. However, wider cracks will require taking measures that are more substantial. While you can temporarily cover up these cracks with patching material, this is only a stop-gap fix that will soon wear out.
When to Replace
If your driveway is more than 20 years old, it’s most likely best to have it replaced. After this much time under elemental exposure, even the best driveways can break down. Patching these antiques is won’t be worth the trouble or cost. Your driveway may not even have a structural problem to necessitate replacement. Oftentimes, new homeowners or those looking to sell the house will replace for the visual appeal. Patching isn’t invisible and can sometimes look unsightly.
When to Resurface
If you know repairing won’t be enough, but replacement is too expensive, there is an “in-between” option that’s typically only offered by top quality asphalt repair companies like Tristate Paving. It’s called resurfacing. Resurfacing essentially strips off your driveway’s top layer and replaces it, resulting in a driveway that appears brand-spanking-new, but costs much less than a total replacement. While this won’t fix issues with the foundation, you won’t be seeing any cracks or potholes for awhile either.
Need Driveway Repair, Replacement, or Resurfacing?
Call Tristate Paving. Our experienced paving professionals have plenty of experience with driveway repair, resurfacing, and replacement, and can take care of your asphalt installation or repair needs quickly, and at an affordable price. At Tristate Paving we take great pride in our customer service and we’ll be more than happy to sit down and figure out what asphalt repair option works best for you.
Our area numbers are:
West Chester: 610.563.9456
Oxford: 610.932.3566
Delaware: 302.757.4100
Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.
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What is Infrared Asphalt Repair?
Tuesday, January 6th, 2015Asphalt pavement has become so universal primarily because it is extremely durable, highly cost effective, straightforward to install, and consistently strong. Used for parking lots and roadways the world over, asphalt can last for a long time, provided its given careful maintenance. When it comes to repairing serious asphalt damage one of the most effective methods is infrared repairs.
What is Infrared Asphalt Repair?
Infrared asphalt repair uses a combination of asphalt technologies to make fast repairs to severely damaged pavement. Infrared asphalt repair uses hot asphalt and extreme pressure to perfectly mix the new asphalt with the old. If you start spotting potholes or pavement cracking, infrared asphalt repair may be the solution.
How does it work?
First, the area in need of repair will have all its debris, loose aggregate, and water removed. Then infrared machinery will heat it to 325 degrees Fahrenheit for somewhere between 5 and 10 minutes (depending on how deep the area is and the level of asphalt integrity). After heating, the machinery will rake the area to eliminate failing aggregate before injecting specially formulated oils to bolster the strength of the existing asphalt. New hot asphalt will be poured in before a several-ton roller-compactor presses it flat.
Infrared Benefits
Infrared asphalt repair is popular largely due to its effectiveness at deep, subsurface repairs that maximize the reuse of old asphalt and minimize waste without causing asphalt/ aggregate separation or burning. Infrared asphalt repair is also incredibly affordable, using less raw material than traditional repair methods. The speed and thoroughness of the process minimizes both traffic interruptions and water penetration.
Interested in Infrared Asphalt repair?
Call Tristate Paving. Our experienced paving professionals have plenty of experience with, and access to, infrared asphalt repair equipment, and can take care of your asphalt installation or repair needs quickly, and at an affordable price. At Tristate Paving we take great pride in our customer service and we’ll be more than happy to sit down and figure out what asphalt repair option works best for you.
Our area numbers are:
West Chester: 610.563.9456
Oxford: 610.932.3566
Delaware: 302.757.4100
Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.
Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways
Tuesday, December 23rd, 2014If you’re constructing a new home, or are just in the market for a brand new driveway, you’re doubtlessly faced with a lot of tough decisions. The most important decision you can make is selecting between the two most popular driveway paving materials: Concrete and asphalt. Tristate Paving is here with the differences between these two materials so that you can make the best choice possible. It’s important to know that asphalt and concrete do have many similarities. They both need well compacted gravel bases, need time to set before use, and are made from stone and sand. The main difference in their composition is the adhesive used to bind them together. Asphalt is adhered with tar, while concrete uses cement. This small difference in the material composition of the two substances ripples outward, resulting in drastic differences between the two.
Appearance
Different people will have a preference as to whether they’d like concrete or asphalt better. Asphalt driveways appear as natural extensions of the road while concrete ones have a distinctly different appearance. However, both can have their looks modified. You can stain, etch, and engrave concrete as well as apply a variety of finishes to customize your driveway to match your home. Asphalt is somewhat more limited and cannot be stained. Although, tint may be added to the mixture to alter the color slightly.
Climate
Climate can play an important part in selecting what to pave your driveway with. Concrete is more likely to crack or fracture due to extreme cold. It can also be damaged by defrosting salts. Conversely, asphalt performs less well in hotter climates because intense and prolonged exposure to heat can cause the tar to melt and potentially lose its form. Consider your climate carefully when paving your driveway.
Maintenance
Both materials have drastically different maintenance requirements. Asphalt requires the application of a protective sealant about every three years, which can increase its lifespan to roughly 30 years. Concrete driveways do not need sealant but can benefit from it greatly, preserving their appearance for longer. Concrete driveways do stain easier than asphalt and must have degreaser applied to them to take care of oil spills. Asphalt is typically easier to repair and can be affordably resurfaced rather than replaced, an option that is not available to concrete driveway owners.
Price
Asphalt is typically a good deal less expensive than concrete to install. On average asphalt will run between $2.50 to $4.00 per square foot. Concrete, on the other hand, usually runs between $4.00 to $6.00 per square foot for a basic installation and can cost more if you’re looking at applying special finishes.
Need Help Making the Decision?
Call Tristate Paving. Our experienced paving professional have a long history installing both concrete and asphalt driveways and we’ll be more than happy to sit down and figure out which option works best for you.
Our area numbers are:
West Chester: 610.563.9456
Oxford: 610.932.3566
Delaware: 302.757.4100
Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.
The Importance of Asphalt Sealing in Maryland
Saturday, December 13th, 2014When taking care of your Asphalt driveway or pavement, it’s important to think about asphalt cracking prevention. Cracking occurs when asphalt is exposed to sunlight over a long period of time. UV radiation from the sun can cause asphalt aggregate to break apart, forming dangerous and unsightly cracks. Cold weather can make this process occur much faster and much more often. Tristate Paving, your Maryland paving professionals, is here with the importance of asphalt sealing, which can be used to prevent pavement cracking.
So How Does Asphalt Sealing Work?
An application of asphalt sealing product has the power to improve its appearance and extend its lifespan exponentially. Essentially, they provide a powerful protective layer against UV radiation, moisture damage, and extreme temperature changes. Asphalt sealing can be done with a wide variety of materials, so it’s important to know the difference between them before choosing.
What Asphalt Sealing Material Should I Use?
Traditional: Traditional asphalt sealing products are made with a mixed emulsifier, which typically resembles a soapy substance, and water. While they are undoubtedly the cheapest available solution for asphalt sealing, they have a very short lifespan and don’t offer much protection against ultraviolet rays.
Coal Tar: Coal tar asphalt sealant consists of an emulsifier mixed with tiny clay particles, which makes it very easy to apply. Coal tar asphalt sealing products are incredibly effective at preserving asphalt against repeat exposure to oil and gasoline, making them ideal for asphalt that will see a lot of traffic. Many coal tar asphalts are made with special polymers that offer UV protection.
Acrylic Polymer: Acrylic polymer sealants are entirely synthetic, made with chemical components deigned to offer the maximum amount of protection against UV radiation and the elements. These asphalt sealing products tend to offer more protection than any other kind of sealant although they do cost more.
How Often Should Sealant Be Applied?
If your asphalt has been recently laid you should think about having asphalt sealing done roughly one year after the initial asphalt paving. Because asphalt is made with oils it remains relatively flexible until these oils evaporate, which typically takes about a year. If your asphalt has already been sealed and is over a year old, you should make sure to have asphalt sealing done about once every three years. A good way to tell if it needs sealing is if it starts to look gray, rather than black. This is a sign of over-oxidation, which eventually causes asphalt cracking.
Interested in Professional Asphalt Sealing Services?
Then call Tristate Paving! We’re an experienced asphalt sealing and paving company with the knowledge and skills necessary to take care of your asphalt sealing project quickly and affordably. If you want to keep your asphalt looking and performing great, then consider calling us for professional asphalt sealing services.
Our area numbers are:
West Chester: 610.563.9456
Oxford: 610.932.3566
Delaware: 302.757.4100
Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.
Asphalt, Concrete, and Masonry Work from Tristate Paving
Wednesday, November 26th, 2014
Setting the standard in paving and construction throughout the Tristate area for more than 40 years, Tristate paving is here with the best in paving, concrete, and masonry work. We’re a family owned and operated business that’s active every day of the week building a better future for you. Our master stone masons and experienced work crews have the knowledge and tools at their disposal to make any asphalt, concrete, or masonry work an easy and affordable experience. We offer:
Superior Asphalt Paving
Our professional paving teams have decades of experience in a wide variety of asphalt paving projects ranging from residential paving services to commercial sealcoating. We have the tools and technique to take on paving jobs of any size. Whether you’re a Maryland homeowner looking to have the perfect driveway finally installed, or a Department of Transportation representative seeking a team that can handle building roadways to serve all of America, Tristate paving is your go-to paving company if you want the job done affordably, and done well.
High-Quality Concrete Services
Tristate paving offers an incredible variety of concrete installation and repair services including simple and sturdy flatwork, decorative concrete flats and walkways, curbs, gutters, beautiful new concrete steps, and slab-jack repair. Our experienced concrete installation and repair teams have what it takes to build the concrete pool deck of your dreams, or to refinish your office’s parking lot into one you’ve always wanted. Tristate paving is simply unbeatable when it comes to quality concrete work, in both price and quality.
Amazing Hardscaping
At Tristate paving we’re also well-versed in the art of hardscaping and can provide invaluable consultation on projects that will maximize your home’s beauty at a price you can afford. We have a long history of building exceptional stone steps, walkways, patios, columns, fire pits, walls, and much more. Hardscape design and installation is a crucial part of giving your home or office a look that emanates quality and success. The professionals at Tristate paving have what it takes to handle any decorative hardscaping project to provide you with a yard you can be proud of.
Tristate Paving is All About Excellence
At Tristate Paving there’s one thing we care about more than excellent paving, concrete, and masonry work: Your satisfaction. We’re not in this business to make a quick buck, or sell you on services you don’t need. We’re here to help you find a solution that’s right for you, at a price you can afford. Simple, straightforward, and reliable service, that’s our guarantee. Our area numbers are:
West Chester: 610.563.9456
Oxford: 610.932.3566
Delaware: 302.757.4100
Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.
ASPHALT
Commercial
Residential
DOT
Decorative
Sealcoating
Infrared Repairs
CONCRETE
Flat Work
Decorative
Curbs/Gutters
Steps
Slab Jacking
Pump Trucks / Pump Trailers
HARDSCAPES
Walls / Borders / Curbs
Walks / Patios
Aprons
Steps
Columns / Fire Pits
Outdoor Kitchens
