Sep 17

Stamped Concrete Rochester NY: Know Your Stamped Concrete Surface

By admin | Stamped Concrete | No Comments

Updated September, 2019

If you have ever wanted to redo your patio or any other outdoor area with brick, stone, or tile, you may want to consider using stamped concrete instead.

Although the previously mentioned materials can be beautiful and eye-catching, they can be expensive as well. Textured, or stamped concrete as it is also known, can be used to give the same gorgeous and professional appearance at a much lower price.

You will have the option of selecting from a wide variety of hues and shades, which can be adjusted to create the color of your choosing.

Creating a Unique Stamped Concrete Pattern

Stamped concrete can give the illusion of brick, stone, or tile, and it can be used for a massive range of outdoor projects. It is commonly used by home and business owners to create visually appealing sidewalks, driveways, patios, and decks, and the fact that customers have the option to create their ideal color makes stamped concrete perfect for virtually any setting. Customers will have the option to choose from the following colors:

Random Flagstone
London Cobble
Grand Ashlar Slate

If you do not see the pattern you are looking for, just ask us for additional pattern options and we’d be happy to show you more.

Stamped Concrete vs. Natural Stone and Paver Brick

Stamped concrete is the best choice for many projects and it offers a variety of benefits.

Unlike natural stones or paver bricks, weeds will not grow through cracks and there is no need to worry about shifting during the winter months. In addition, decorative stamped concrete offers:

Resistance to impact
More affordability
Less maintenance
Authentic natural stone and brick appearance

Stamped concrete also ages better and can stand the test of time longer than brick and natural stone.

However, stamped concrete and paver bricks have the same price, so you can choose which look you like better. Our concrete stamps, made from polyurethane, can make your poured concrete look like bricks, cobblestones, or flagstones. We can provide other textures upon request for an additional charge.

Stamped Concrete Installation and Seasonal Considerations

Creating your perfect stamped concrete project starts with selecting the perfect color and type.

This process usually takes about two to three days to complete, and afterward, protective sealants will be added to the concrete. Since stamped concrete is capable of withstanding even the harshest weather conditions, homeowners preparing for spring and summer should start thinking about the design and installation process in the fall or winter before the project.

During the summer, we use a retarder to keep the surface of the concrete soft despite high temperatures. We want to postpone the setting time till after we’ve added the stamped pattern. The softer the concrete, the deeper and more definitely defined the pattern will be.

During the fall, we mix an accelerator into the concrete to speed up the setting time. To prevent the concrete from crumbling, we won’t pour during freezing temperatures, especially below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature reaches high 30s, we’ll use insulated warming blankets to encourage the concrete to set correctly.

Two Types of Concrete Used in Stamped Concrete

We provide interior mix for indoor concrete projects such as basement floors and garages. Interior mix, which lacks air pockets, has a smooth, dense texture. Exterior mix, which has air pumped through it, is used for outdoor projects like driveways. The air pockets allow water to expand without damaging the concrete construction.

Recycled Concrete

When we accept concrete renovation projects, we first break up the damaged concrete slabs to prepare the site for construction. We then remove the blocks of used concrete so that they can be crushed and recycled for the next project. Recycled concrete works well as the aggregate for replacing virgin aggregate. We try to get as much use out of the concrete as economically possible.

Stamped Concrete Care

Reseal Every 2-5 Years

Stamped concrete needs to be resealed every 2-5 years, depending on the traffic. However, unlike paver bricks, you won’t have moss or grass growing between each rock, since it’s composed completely of a single layer of concrete. In addition, your patio won’t sink or develop uneven dips and slants.

Do Not Stack On Top of Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is permanent, but it’s not stackable. If you try to layer concrete, the top layer will mimic every crack and flaw that the bottom layer has.

Common Damages to Stamped Concrete

Puddling

Over time, some areas of the concrete may form a depression. Water can collect in this dip in what professionals refer to as a “bird bath.”

This most often happens during the installation process when contractors step on the concrete before it hardens. The experts at All County know what precautions to take during the installation to ensure no puddling develops.

Shallow Impressions

This issue is specific to stamped concrete because it is decorative in nature. Ideally, you want deep impressions within the concrete that allow you to see each individual stone. However, due to a variety of reasons, the concrete can become too hard too fast, which does not allow the embedding to show.

Workers may be able to correct this problem simply by creating the grout lines by hand, but at All County, we have a preventive approach to this issue.

Ridges

When two stamp mats come together, some of the soft concrete can come between them. This is a normal process, and workers will be able to smooth everything out at the end. However, in the event the workers fail to smooth out the area, you will be left with a ridge between the two mats. It is vital to correct this problem promptly because homeowners can be seriously hurt if they step on the ridge barefoot.

Cracks

This problem happens with all kinds of concrete. At one point or another, your concrete can crack even if the installation went perfectly.

Ideally, the team you hire will incorporate control joints into the concrete. Since it is an inevitability that the concrete will crack over time, the workers will direct it to crack in a space that is not visible. For stamped concrete, the team will use a power saw to cut between the spaces. This allows the concrete to crack beneath the surface, ensuring it looks better for longer. Some people worry about water getting into the cracks, but this problem does not usually cause any major damages.

Prevent All This With the Right Team

The professionals at All County Construction are proficient at installing stamped concrete and are skilled with handling random flagstone, grand ashlar slate, and London cobble. With our team, you can be confident that you will not have to worry about the most common types of damage occurring with your new concrete any time soon. Contact us today to learn more.

We Understand the Value of Having a Beautiful Outdoor Living Space

We know the value of having a beautiful outdoor living space. That’s why we strive to provide our customers with access to high-quality stamped concrete products that can stand the test of time and make any yard or patio grab your attention. Contact us today to learn more about stamped concrete and all your design options!

Stamped concrete is a wonderful way to brighten any patio, walkway, or driveway, but many factors can cause imperfections in your stamped concrete. Usually, the best way to repair a stamped concrete imperfection is to prevent it in the first place through expert installation, but natural wear and tear can distort even the best-laid concrete.

Stay informed about all aspects of your stamped concrete, especially if you live in Rochester, NY.

Stamped concrete gives you a plethora of options, such as stone patterns, colors, textures, and depth. Many residential and commercial property owners appreciate its aesthetic appeal. We at All Country Construction want to keep you informed about stamped concrete so you’ll know how best to maintain your surface.

All County Construction provides concrete services for the tri-county area, including Ontario, Williamson, Webster, and Marion. We accept a wide range of projects such as sidewalks, catch basins/gutters, retaining walls, and patios. Including various textures and colors, we provide three different stamped concrete patterns: London Cobble, Grand Ashlar Slate, and Random Flagstone.

Aug 05

Asphalt Paving is Both Inviting and Attractive

By admin | Driveway Paving | No Comments

Your driveway represents the welcome you want to convey to visitors, passersby or prospective buyers in the event of a sale. With asphalt paving, you have the opportunity to boost curb appeal, increase the property value, and make the best impression. Typically, asphalt is less expensive than concrete or other materials.

Advantages of Asphalt Versus Concrete

Asphalt has certain advantages over other surfacing materials. Composed of a mixture of aggregate and petroleum-based liquid cement, asphalt is mixed and placed while it is at least 300 degrees F. With asphalt, it must be applied quickly depending upon the thickness, the outdoor temperature and the season.

Favorable characteristics of asphalt include:

Fast set – hardens by cooling rather than curing
Strength and durability – less susceptible to salting in winter and able to withstand fluctuations in temperature
Flexibility – has flex and give to withstand settling without cracking or breaking
Smooth and continuous surfacing – due to flexibility, needs no spacers to allow for expansion or contraction
Easily resurfaced – asphalt is easily resurfaced as a DIY project using driveway sealant. You cannot achieve this same convenient resurfacing with concrete.
Aesthetics – special asphalt formulations may be colored and imprinted to replicate pavers

Hiring Commercial Paving Companies

Your due diligence is best performed by vetting commercial paving companies before you settle on a contractor. Verify their qualifications by checking references on such criteria as quality of work, timely performance, attention to detail and completion of work. Request evidence of adequate liability coverage and trade association.

A paving company will expect you to obtain competing bids and to get references. Once you have decided on a contractor, expect to see the particulars noted in writing including:

Responsibility for grading work
Accuracy
Compacting of sub-grade and base
Measuring compacted thickness
Pavement slope and smoothness
Payment schedule
Guarantee of finished work

Other Areas Considerations for Paving

Some details should remain front of mind as the work on your asphalt paving is done. Due to the surface height, you may need to check your gates for clearance and have foreknowledge of who is responsible for re-hanging as needed. Be prepared to raise any water valves or sewer lines to meet the surrounding asphalt. Ensure surface drainage is addressed properly to prevent ponding or standing water issues on the finished surface.

With the numerous areas of concern such as air and surface temperature, time available for compaction and lift thickness, you are better off initiating contact with a reputable paving company yourself. The unscrupulous fly-by-night visitors who show up unannounced do not have your best interests in mind. Trust your evaluation based upon the proof that can be provided for you to check up on. Too much is contingent upon doing the job right the first time and having the ability to contact the contractor in the event of recourse.

Apr 30

What Is Reclaimed Asphalt Paving?

By admin | Commercial Paving, Driveway Paving | No Comments

Going green is more than just a trend; it’s an important focus on being more conscious of choices that affect the environment and leaving the world better for the next generation. While you may associate such an attitude with certain people and industries, it’s just as alive in the asphalt business as anywhere else. Producing and using reclaimed asphalt paving is just one example of how All County Construction is doing our part in practicing environmental responsibility.

Why Reclaim Asphalt?

Asphalt may not seem like something that’s recyclable, but it actually makes the top of the list in recycled products in North America. Reusing asphalt paving from removal projects, excavations, and excess orders not only keeps tons of the material out of landfills but also eliminates the need to quarry rock, refine and deliver oil, and produce greenhouse gas emissions for the creation of new asphalt. The environment benefits from this prevention of wasted asphalt paving and precious resources.

The recycled material is also known to last longer than its new counterpart, meaning that production of replacement asphalt, whether new or used, doesn’t need to occur as often. The icing on the cake is that reclaiming asphalt saves cities, businesses, and taxpayers billions of dollars.

What Is the Quality of Reclaimed Asphalt Paving?

If you worry that processing used asphalt diminishes its quality, you can rest assured that it maintains a high level of performance. Of course, the exact composite of each mixture will vary due to the different traits of the source material, such as how many times it had been resurfaced, hold old it is, and where it came from. However quality-control tests ensure the product will be suitable for a specific project, so recycled asphalt can replace virgin asphalt in nearly every case.

How Is Asphalt Paving Reclaimed?

The exact process depends on how the asphalt will be used, but generally, it requires milling a few inches or fully removing existing pavement. The material is then added to a new mix, usually as an aggregate substitute. Sometimes the process occurs at a plant, whereas other times it happens at the construction site.

During our milling and paving projects, we recycle the millings (old blacktop) and add them as aggregate to the new hot asphalt mix. Once we’re finished with a project, we make sure to leave the site clean and free of old rubble. If you’re ready to contribute to the billions saved each year in taxpayer money by reusing reclaimed asphalt paving to its fullest extent, then contact All County Construction to discuss your pavement project.

Apr 03

Why Spring Is a Good Time To Lay Asphalt

By admin | Commercial Paving, Parking Lot Paving | No Comments

When you have a damaged driveway or parking lot, you want to get it fixed right away. However, it may be in your best interest to make sure you get it done during the right time of year. The weather and temperature outside can greatly impact the longevity of your new asphalt. For many residential and commercial properties, the best time to hire paving services is spring. When the sun is out and the flowers are in full bloom, it is also time to repair damaged asphalt.

Spring Temperatures Are Ideal for Asphalt

Ultimately, you want to lay down new asphalt when it is roughly 70 degrees Fahrenheit outside. Regardless of which state you live in, the temperature will reach this threshold around springtime or early summertime. It is possible to pave a new driveway when the temperature is colder, but it will require a more complicated approach. Asphalt becomes more difficult to work with when it is colder outside, so the team may have problems during the paving. Higher temperatures may not necessarily impact the asphalt, but it will be harder for the team working for hours on end in the blistering sun.

Ultimately, you do not want the asphalt to thicken before it is laid. In cold temperatures, the asphalt can actually harden when it is still in the machinery. Even if the team can still lay out the asphalt, it can become uneven over the surface area. This will create problems for anyone driving over the structure. You may need to tear out the asphalt within a few years if the foundation is not strong enough.

Spring Weather Can Be Perfect for Laying Asphalt

You also want to check what the weather will be like when you plan on laying down new asphalt. Some sun and clouds are good, but you do not want it to rain. Spring occasionally brings showers, so you want to check the weather ahead of time to make sure it will not drizzle during your paving day. The base of the asphalt can become damaged when exposed to excessive levels of moisture. The excess water can also cause the asphalt to cool too quickly. You will be better off waiting until it is a dry spring afternoon.

All County Construction will make sure the weather is perfect before laying down your new asphalt. Our team has been working in the New York area for years, so we know when the weather is optimal for us to begin. Contact us to get started.

Mar 04

What Causes Concrete To Crack?

By admin | Driveway Care | No Comments

A freshly poured concrete slab can be a beautiful sight to see. When cracks begin to mar the smooth surface, the aesthetic value may take a big plunge. In addition, excessive cracks can make the pavement unstable and hazardous. Knowing the causes behind cement cracks may help you avoid them the next time you have your slab redone.

Temperature Fluctuations and Concrete

Most concrete surfaces are laid outside, which leaves them vulnerable to weather influences. Conditions of high heat and humidity can cause the material to expand. Cracks form when the surface has nowhere else to go. On the opposite end of the spectrum, cool, dry air can cause what’s called plastic shrinkage. The contraction of the cement results in breakage.

You may have cracked concrete if the weather was below freezing when the pavement was originally poured. For optimum results, you should avoid having concrete installed in cold weather conditions.

Installation Errors while Laying Concrete

Pouring concrete is a science; there are various conditions that may cause the surface to break if not handled properly. There are three stages in the process where mistakes may occur:

Prepping
Mixing
Drying

Because it’s impossible to control expansion and contraction from weather and air conditions, cracking may be inevitable. To prevent the fractures from appearing in random, unappealing places, your cement expert should install control joints prior to pouring the pavement. This encourages the concrete to split in inconspicuous locations.

Excess moisture or improper temperatures during the mixing phase can lead to an unstable end product. Additionally, if the surface is dried too quickly, cracks may form as a result.

Improper installation can doom your pavement before you’ve even had a chance to enjoy it. Our team at All County Construction is well-trained to avoid mistakes like these during your installation process.

Weight Burdens on Pavement

Not all concrete is designed to support all weight limits. There’s a difference between a sidewalk intended for pedestrians, bicycles, and strollers versus a parking lot that must support several vehicles at once. Overloading the surface can lead to excess pressure, causing the pavement to crack.

Adjustments can be made during the preparation of the cement to strengthen its load capacity. Make sure your installation team is well aware of your weight requirements before the job begins.

Let All County Construction assist you in your upcoming cement project. Our professional team gets the job done right the first time and accounts for all aspects specific to your personal needs. Request your free estimate to begin your concrete job as soon as possible.

Jan 28

How to Decide If Stamped Concrete or Paver Bricks Are Best for You

By admin | Stamped Concrete | No Comments

Difference Between Paver Bricks and Stamped Concrete

Pavers are interlocking blocks, bricks, or stones, which are laid down individually over a large area, while stamped concrete is poured out in a single slab which then has a design stamped into it. While both paving materials have advantages and disadvantages, stamped concrete is the most cost-effective of the two options. Learn why stamped concrete is more economical than paver blocks.

Initial Cost and Affordability

Whenever making a large purchase, the final decision often hinges on the cost. If you get bids for paver bricks and stamped concrete surfaces, expect the cost difference to be significant. Several factors contribute to these. Paver brick installation is labor-intensive.

Proper site preparation starts with excavation and a concrete border. Next come layers of fabric, Class II Road Base and sand. Finally, workers install the paver bricks on the sand.

Stamped surfaces require somewhat less labor, excavation and bed preparation. Most of the effort comes from stamping and giving it the expected look. Once installation expenses and material prices are factored in, the upfront cost of stamped concrete is about 10% to 15% less than that of pavers.

Generally speaking, stamped or textured concrete has a lower initial cost than pavers; you can expect to pay anywhere between $8 and $18 per square foot depending on the complexity of the job. Brick pavers, on the other hand, can cost between $12 and $22 per square foot, while natural stone pavers can cost as much as $10 to $30, depending on the type of stone.

Learn More About Stamped Concrete!

Longevity and Durability

How your surface looks depends on its installation and subsequent care. Broken or missing sections, puddles, uneven surfaces and weeds detract from its beauty.

Paver bricks are very durable, though a lot of that depends on site preparation. Weeds between the pavers detract from the look unless you think it adds character.

Stamped surfaces are also durable but can crack in time. However, control joints can invite a section to fracture someplace out of sight.

As a general rule, pavers last longer than concrete, although there are steps that can be taken to make concrete last longer. Most stamped concrete has had special sealants applied that protect it from weather damage.

Additionally, carefully placed saw cut control joints can prevent the concrete from cracking due to thermal expansion and contraction, while the right texture or pattern can help conceal minor imperfections. Generally, stamped concrete can last up to 25 years, while pavers have a lifespan of about 30 years. Depending on the project, this gap may be offset by the lower initial cost of concrete.

Aesthetics

Property owners often take the aesthetics of a certain material into account when considering whether it’s worth the cost.

When you are out, take a close look at all the paver and natural stone surfaces you encounter. You may get a surprise. You will discover that many of those are stamped pavement rather than separate, assembled bricks. Pavers no longer corner the market on beauty.

Concrete pavers can imitate a wide variety of stone types, from slate flagstones to limestone cobbles. However, there are some cases where it comes down to a matter of personal taste. You can create any design you wish with the available shapes and colors.

Stamped surfaces can create similar color and pattern effects as paver bricks. Also, they can imitate the randomness of shape and color that one gets from natural stone. Cobblestone and flagstone patterns are two common choices.

Stamped concrete might not be able to provide exactly the same feel as real brick, while certain geometric patterns or modern designs are not possible with traditional pavers.

It’s Time to Have the Pavement You Always Wanted

All County Construction is ready to help. We can exceed all your residential and commercial pavement requirements. Contact us today for a free estimate using our online contact form.

If you’re having a walkway, driveway, patio, or other area paved, then you’ll want to consider all of your options carefully. Two of the most common materials are stamped concrete and paver blocks, each of which has their own pros and cons.

Contact Us

Here at All County Construction, we have the expertise and experience needed to make your dream project a reality. Contact us today to receive a free stamped concrete estimate.

Nov 30

Caring for Your Concrete Driveway in the Winter Months

By admin | Driveway Care | No Comments

Plummeting temperatures will soon be upon us, and you need to take measures to protect the concrete driveway for your residential or commercial property. Here are a few solid tips on maintaining the structure of your driveway this winter season.

Respond to Stains As Quickly As Possible

We understand that a stain on your driveway isn’t the end of the world, but stains of grease, oil, gasoline, and other such liquids can be unsightly, and allowing them to linger can ruin the overall image of your company’s exterior. If you’re a homeowner, a stained driveway can negatively impact your home’s resale value and its visual aesthetic, too. Take care of spills and drips with a pressure washer, degreaser, or even dishwasher detergent and a quality brush.

Seal Your Driveway

To get as much use out of your concrete driveway as possible, look into sealing it. We recommend sealing your driveway every two years. However, you should consider the overall climate as well as how much you use your driveway to evaluate how often you should seal your driveway. If you want to enjoy the best results, have a professional take care of the sealing and resealing.

Refrain From Using De-icers on Your Driveway

Before you use de-icing chemicals to get rid of snow and ice on your driveway, know that they can damage concrete. Ammonium sulfate and ammonium nitrate are especially harmful because they eat their way into concrete. While you can use calcium chloride or rock salt as an alternative, there’s a chance you can accidentally harm nearby plants by doing so. Your best bet is to keep things simple and sprinkle sand so wheels have the proper traction required to move over the concrete.

Take It Easy

Concrete is a pretty durable material, which means it should be able to stand up to significant damage, right? The truth is you shouldn’t subject concrete to more damage or wear than absolutely necessary. This is especially true for fresher concrete. Large and heavy vehicles, like those used for moving or construction, can harm concrete driveways for residential properties.

The Good and Bad Sides of Salting Your Pavement This Winter

Temperatures have dropped, which means that another cold Upstate New York winter is here. When snow and ice start blowing in from Lake Ontario, it’s only a matter of time before roadways and parking lots become un-drivable, which is why many municipalities and business owners treat the asphalt with salt. If you’re responsible for the upkeep of a parking lot, you might be wondering if you should consider salting your pavement before the first flakes fall. Here’s a look at the bad and good sides of this technique so you can make an informed decision.

How Salt Works

Road salt is a compound known as halite, which is the unrefined form of the seasoning you have on your dinner table. When dissolved in water, it lowers the liquid’s freezing temperature, which means it needs to be much colder to create ice. By spraying a mixture of water and halite on pavement, you can prevent it from freezing over and creating dangerous conditions.

The Benefits of Salting

The application of rock salt is one of the most common anti-icing techniques used today, as it provides a number of distinct benefits:

Road salt is extremely affordable when compared with other chemical agents.
Halite does not cause asphalt deterioration or potholes.
Salts can be laid down in a brine solution before the storm arrives, which allows workers to be proactive.

Drawbacks of Salt Application

While there are many benefits that come with salting, it’s important to understand that halite has its limitations and negative consequences:

Unlike asphalt, concrete surfaces will deteriorate due to the salt’s acidity.
Salt loses its effectiveness if the temperature is too cold or the surface freezes quickly, as it requires liquid water to work properly.
Chemical runoff from road salt can have a negative impact on plants, animals, and underground aquifers.
Prolonged exposure to halite can cause vehicles to rust prematurely.

Make the Right Choice

When it’s time to repair damages or completely repave your driveway or parking lot, turn to the experts at All County Construction.

For more tips on taking great care of your concrete driveway, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are also ready to accept requests for driveway sealing or paving for the warmer months.

To schedule an appointment for a free estimate, contact us online or call our office at 315-589-8661 today.

Sep 27

What Causes Asphalt Paving to Deteriorate?

By admin | Driveway Care, Uncategorized | No Comments

Have you ever wondered why most government-sponsored road construction involves asphalt paving? The simple answer is that the material has a reputation of being one of the most durable solutions to building roadways to last and withstand daily use.

Even so, improper installation can sometimes thwart the best-laid plans, and the wear and tear of environmental conditions over time has an impact on even the toughest substances.

Mistakes Made in Asphalt Construction

Asphalt pavement can last a long time if proper steps are taken to prepare the space and correctly lay the materials.

During this process, a number of mistakes can be made that would affect the longevity of the road:

The base underneath the pavement is not compacted appropriately.
There is poor drainage to protect the surface from water exposure.
The temperature of the asphalt is not compatible with the application.
Compaction is overdone or underdone when the asphalt is laid.

Any combination of these scenarios would yield less than desirable results for the lifespan of a newly paved road. It’s important that the asphalt is installed and maintained properly to avoid premature deterioration when exposed to the elements.

Five Common Causes of Asphalt Pavement Damage

When you notice a pothole or cracking in asphalt pavement, it’s a clear sign of damage. Before you set out to fix the issue, it is important to determine the root of the problem. Understanding the true cause enables you to implement the appropriate maintenance and get the best return on investment. Here are five common culprits behind pavement damage.

1. Lack of Maintenance

Due to constant exposure and temperature fluctuations, it is normal for asphalt paving to crack over the years. Fortunately, many cracks can be caught and remedied with an annual checkup. An excellent maintenance routine includes crack sealing as well as pavement seal coating to deter water damage. We also recommend inspecting cracks once in the fall and again in the spring to monitor their condition.

2. Poor Subgrade Load-Bearing Ability

An ill-functioning subgrade is frequently known to result in pavement damage. This occurs when the soils underneath the base layer of asphalt are clay-based rather than stone. When you notice ruts forming in your parking lot or street after a round of rain, it may be a sign the subgrade is unable to support weight.

3. Deteriorating Paver Seams

Paver seams, or joints, naturally begin to break down and separate as asphalt ages. Damage and cracking are often brought on faster than expected, however, because of several issues that occur during construction. These include:

Cooler temperatures at installation

Surface lot geometry

Scale of paving equipment

Time between loads

Number of passes made

Unfortunately, even a routine paving job can go awry due to variables outside of a contractor’s control. Factors such as traffic delays and unusually long lines at the asphalt plant may make it impossible to pour hot seams at each pass.

4. Inadequate Pavement Thickness

Another cause of asphalt damage is pavement thickness. Surface asphalt must be at least two inches thick in order to stand up to moisture and heavy traffic. If it is too thin or improperly installed, pavement is left prone to extensive cracking.

5. Problems With the Base Layer

A load-bearing base is essential in promoting and extending the life of asphalt. If the base layer is too shallow, does not support weight, or was botched at the time of installation, it can make the pavement above prone to potholes. A solid base is comprised of six inches of stone and two inches of binder asphalt.

Typical Signs of Asphalt Pavement Deterioration

It’s completely natural for asphalt paving to weaken over time. Sunlight, rainwater, and the chemicals associated with vehicles that use the roadway all compound to break down the binding agent within the material and allow penetration of moisture, both from the surface and beneath the road. In just a few years, visible decline in the condition of the pavement can occur, especially when it has not been well cared for as smaller issues arise.

Distortion of the roadway – Occurs with poor construction, which creates ruts and depressions, among other issues, in the foundation and the surface.
Cracking of the asphalt – Can happen both due to installation errors as well as natural and man-made erosion, including the yearly freezing and thawing of the material.
Disintegration, such as potholes – Develops due to exposure to water, as well as spills of oil and gasoline onto the road by passing vehicles.

When Should You Sealcoat or Repave Your Asphalt Driveway?

It’s natural to be concerned when your driveway is showing ruts and cracks – especially if it leads to your place of business and it can affect how customers feel about coming to you. You’re probably thinking about whether you should consider sealcoating your deteriorating driveway or if it’s time for an asphalt paving job.

What’s the Best Way To Repair a Weathered Driveway?

Although sealcoating can be an easy fix, repeated applications can cause the driveway surface to look like cracked pottery glazing. This condition is called alligatoring and gets its name from its resemblance to an alligator hide. In its more severe form, the cracks can reach down into the pavement and it’s time to repave the driveway.

When you can insert a butter knife into the cracks, you need repaving. If the cracks are limited to the surface, however, the effect may only be cosmetic and the underlying pavement could be undamaged. In this case, sealcoat is an option, but if your driveway is an important part of your property or if it brings customers to your place of business, you should consider asphalt paving instead.

When Choosing Between Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating:

Don’t be swayed by drive-by contractors who promise low-cost services.
Schedule an inspection with an experienced and reputable professional.
Time is a factor. If your driveway leads to your place of business, you need to be sure the work is completed on schedule so there is minimal interruption.
Hire a professional who will be receptive to any issues that arise after the job is completed.
Consider your driveway’s drainage mechanics. Improper drainage can send rainfall toward spots where damage can occur.
A cosmetics-only approach can be an option if you’re comfortable with scheduling further maintenance later.

Solutions for Proper Installation and Repair

It is imperative to properly seal asphalt pavement within months of its installation to avoid major deterioration that shortens the expected lifetime of the road. Before sealant can be considered, however, the initial preparations of the ground and construction of the pavement surface must be handled with care by experienced professionals.

Contact us today to let All County Construction handle any asphalt paving and repair needs, so you can be sure the job is done right.

Don’t Let Things Get Worse – Get a Professional Estimate Instead

One of our experienced professionals can visit your location to provide a free estimate. An inspection and an informative consultation with one of our driveway experts will help you to decide when to use sealcoating or asphalt paving to restore your driveway.

Aug 03

6 Reasons Why Asphalt Milling Is Preferred for a Parking Lot

By admin | Parking Lot Paving | No Comments

There are many reasons why commercial property owners prefer asphalt for their parking lots. You can speak to our experts about the finer details of the process, but here are some of the general benefits you get when asphalt milling is done to prepare your parking lot for newer materials.

1.) You Increase the Property’s Value

Since the parking lot is the first thing most customers will see about your business, you want to make a great first impression. Asphalt is resilient, and it increases the overall property value by up to five percent. Read More

Apr 02

What to Expect When a Paving Company Paves Your Driveway

By admin | Driveway Paving | No Comments

If your home’s current driveway is looking a bit worse for wear, it’s a good idea to look into getting a new one.

Not only is this idea for general appearances, but an upgrade could be a great way to improve the overall value of your home if you plan on putting it on the market in the near future.

The most important part of getting a new driveway is choosing the right paving contractor, but there are some other aspects to consider as well.

Choosing the Right Paving Company

There are several factors that go into the success of a paving project. Of these, maybe the most important is choosing the right paving company. The cost of the project, how long it takes to be completed, and the overall quality of the work are all inevitably tied to that decision.

When hiring a paving contractor to do work for your home, there are numerous factors to consider. You need to ensure your paved driveway is done by the best in your area so that you don’t have to redo it entirely in a couple of years.

Before you sign on the dotted line and hire someone, you should first ask the contractor these vital questions.

How Long Have You Worked as a Paving Contractor?

You probably want to hire a company that has been paving residentially for a while because that demonstrates they have done enough good work to remain in business for a long time. A contractor who has worked for less than a year might be good at what they do, but they don’t yet have the track record to prove it.

Can You Provide a List of References?

As with other contractors, paving companies desiring your business should be able to provide references for their previous work. Your ideal paving company will have former clients in your area that they can direct you to speak with about their experience, and they’ll also have multiple reviews on their Google listing and/or social media channels that you can evaluate. You are also able to ask to see pictures of their previous projects and ask questions about their process and how closely they have stuck to their schedules in the past.

When you know the contractor has experience, you can ask for references. Ask about other projects the contractor has worked on in your county, and see if you can reach out to property owners to get their assessment of the work done.

Will My Driveway Have Any Particular Challenges?

There are various factors that could complicate a residential paving project, such as the driveway having a slight incline or your county’s specific requirements. Asking this question before your contractor begins work forces them to think critically of the project and anticipate potential problem areas.

This forethought can help immensely with keeping the project on track and within your budget and timeline.

Is Concrete or Asphalt Preferable for My Project?

There are key differences between asphalt and concrete. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages, and your contractor should be able to clearly explain to you which one is better for your driveway.

If anything about the explanation is unclear, ask for clarification. A good contractor should be able to explain everything in layman’s terms for you so that you get the best solution for your driveway.

What Materials Will You Use?

There are different grades of asphalt, so be wary of a company that speaks about the asphalt in general terms. Installing a lower quality asphalt can impact the quality of the pavement as well as its longevity.

Long story short, the money saved from purchasing low-grade asphalt today can lead to additional costs in future replacements. You should request that your paving company use a higher-grade asphalt that will last longer and save you money in the long run.

What Is Included Within the Scope of Your Work?

You should receive a written list of everything the contractor will do and what each individual action will cost. Make sure your contractor’s paving team can lay the foundation and handle any decorative components you want.

The right paving company will lay out their plans, experiences, and price tag in a way that’s easy for you to understand. As you interview the various paving companies in your area, take your time to confirm that they indeed have what it takes to complete your job with the highest quality.

Is the Paving Quote Accurate?

Maybe the most underrated aspect of choosing a company is obtaining a proper quote. The quote you receive must be fairly accurate or you can end up wasting money on unused asphalt. You will likely pay for the entire load of asphalt because the company can’t return any unused portions, so a surefire way that untrustworthy paving companies drive up the price of a project is to get lazy with determining the amount of asphalt needed.

Your ideal paving company will provide you with a general inital quote, but they should take in multiple factors when quoting you for your final project including the exact size of the paving area and the type of paving material they will use.

Other Considerations For A New Driveway

A newly paved driveway can rejuvenate any building’s exterior aesthetics. There are various materials you can get your new driveway made out of, including asphalt. Before committing to asphalt paving, here are a few items to discuss with your contractor beforehand.

Your Driveway May Need Construction

Your current driveway will need to be broken up before the new one is laid down, which means you can expect the noise of jackhammers. Once that’s done and debris is cleared away, paver will be laid down before the application of the asphalt, with workers carefully working around structures such as your garage floor.

Consider the New Driveway Placement

Are you thinking about widening your driveway, or maybe relocating it elsewhere on your property? If you install asphalt pavement over roots, those roots may eventually grow to displace your asphalt, breaking it apart from the ground up.

Before your new driveway goes in, you need to think about how nearby trees and shrubbery will affect its integrity. You may want to reconsider where it is positioned on the property if you would need to remove trees for it to fit.

However, even if the driveway itself is a safe distance away, you need to be cautious of tree roots underneath the structure. Roots can crack and penetrate the asphalt, leading to cracks forming on the surface. Professionals will conduct a thorough survey of the property to ensure you get the most out of your new addition.

Remember Drainage

When it rains, you’ll want to have pavement on your property that allows for proper drainage. Any water that’s allowed to linger on and under the pavement is likely to wear away at the materials as well as the overall structure. Poor drainage compromises the overall life expectancy of driveways and often leads to avoidable repairs sooner rather than later.

After the asphalt paving project is complete, you want to be confident it will last a long time.

You can increase the driveway’s lifespan by installing adequate drainage. Without this, standing water will compromise the materials, and you will need to repair cracks and other types of damage soon.

Ask the contractor to put in a two percent slope. This slope should come with a crown with a minimum of a quarter-inch per foot. You may even want to look into installing pipe cross drains to redirect water away from the asphalt.

Look Into Pavement Sealing

To get as much use and life out of your new driveway as possible, be sure to ask your contractor about your options for seal coating. This step is an especially good idea for initial pavement installation, mainly because seal coating helps driveways look better, cuts down on overall UV ray exposure, makes the surface easier to clean, and resists oil and gas stains.

You’ll Need Subgrade Surface Protection

To keep vegetation from growing underneath the pavement once it’s poured, you’ll need to have a soil sterilizer applied to the ground.

Besides applying a soil sterilizer, your contractor will also have to grade, compact, and treat the soil. As the contractor inspects your property’s subgrade, he will have to take care of any loose spots of soil before proceeding with construction.

Your Contractor Should Have Experience With the Specific Job You Have in Mind

To ensure the best results, you want to hire a contractor who has years of experience doing the exact job you need.

Some contractors specialize in residential paving while others predominantly work on commercial properties. Commercial driveways have different requirements, so you want to ensure your new addition will meet all local and state standards.

Another aspect to consider before hiring a contractor is whether the driveway paving company has insurance. A company lacking insurance may entice customers with lower rates, but it is best to spend more to reduce your liability.

What to Expect After you Get your Dream Driveway

You’ll hear a lot of different opinions when it comes to properly maintaining your driveway. “Don’t drive on it,” “Drive on it as often as possible – it’ll help flatten the surface,” “Get it sealed every year,” “Don’t seal it for the next ten years,” “Don’t get it wet,” etc.

Frustrated yet?

Your friends mean well. And if you just recently got it paved, you’re probably tempted to listen to ALL the advice you get. But be careful – some tips that sound like good advice can actually damage your pavement.

For example, freshly laid asphalt doesn’t fully cure until it’s set for a year. During that time, you should be careful what you do on that pavement. What should you NOT do?

1.) Don’t spill harmful fluids on the pavement.

Residential Driveway Sealing Rochester NY Car fluids like antifreeze, gasoline, power steering fluid, and transmission fluids can damage your new asphalt. When it’s spilled, it seeps into the crevices and dilutes the aggregate that holds the pavement together. If you don’t immediately wash it with dish soap and water, the fluid will form holes in your driveway – the last thing that you want for your new pavement.

2.) Don’t park vehicles with heavy, pointy tongues on the pavement.

Tractor trailers, car ramps, and anything with heavy axles can damage your pavement if you let them drag behind you. You don’t want those deep ridges left permanently in your asphalt.

3.) Seal your driveway every 2-4 years.

Did you know it’s possible to seal your driveway too often? The surface will become extremely slippery and dangerous and may even crack from the shrinkage and build-up.

We suggest getting your driveway resealed one year after you get it paved and every 2-4 years from then on.