Asphalt Milling and Resurfacing: The Ultimate Guide for Businesses

Asphalt parking lot cost
Asphalt Parking Lot Cost: What To Expect
October 30, 2024
parking lot milling
Why Parking Lot Milling Is Essential for Long-Term Pavement Durability
November 16, 2024
Asphalt parking lot cost
Asphalt Parking Lot Cost: What To Expect
October 30, 2024
parking lot milling
Why Parking Lot Milling Is Essential for Long-Term Pavement Durability
November 16, 2024
asphalt milling and resurfacing

For businesses considering pavement maintenance options, asphalt milling and resurfacing are crucial methods for keeping properties accessible, safe, and looking professional. Particularly suited to high-traffic areas, these processes help restore pavement, eliminate damage, and prevent the need for complete replacement. Here, we’ll explore what asphalt milling and resurfacing entail, how they differ, their benefits, and what makes them particularly relevant for businesses.

What is Asphalt Milling?

Asphalt milling is the controlled removal of a layer of asphalt from a paved surface. This process involves specialized milling equipment that grinds down the top layers of asphalt to a specific depth, typically determined by the level of damage present or project specifications. Milling effectively removes surface-level issues such as cracks, ruts, and irregularities, leaving a clean, level foundation for resurfacing or, in some cases, for a new layer of asphalt.

The milling process is highly efficient, environmentally friendly, and results in a textured surface that allows for better bonding with the new layer of asphalt. It’s a practical solution for businesses whose asphalt has aged but retains a solid foundation beneath. By removing only the damaged top layer, milling reduces waste, saves costs, and allows for quick restoration without a full reconstruction.

Key Advantages of Asphalt Milling

Cost-Effective Solution: Milling avoids the need for complete replacement by selectively removing damaged layers, reducing the amount of material required and lowering the overall cost of pavement rehabilitation.

Eco-Friendly Approach: The removed asphalt (known as “millings”) can often be recycled and reused in new asphalt mixtures, making it a sustainable choice that minimizes waste and reduces the demand for new materials.

Minimal Disruption: Because milling focuses on the surface layers, it can be done quickly, reducing the time and inconvenience to businesses. Pavements can often be reopened within hours after milling and resurfacing, making it an efficient choice for high-traffic areas.

Prevents Further Deterioration: Milling removes problem areas and creates a strong base for resurfacing, ultimately enhancing the pavement’s lifespan and reducing the need for extensive future repairs.

When is Asphalt Milling Appropriate?

For businesses with asphalt surfaces showing signs of wear like surface cracks, minor potholes, or uneven areas, milling can be an effective solution. Parking lots, walkways, and even driveways that see frequent use or heavy loads benefit from the strength and stability that milling and resurfacing provide.

However, milling may not be ideal if the asphalt foundation is severely compromised. In cases where the sub-base has deteriorated, a full-depth reconstruction might be necessary. A thorough inspection by an experienced asphalt contractor can determine whether milling is suitable based on the pavement’s current condition and the expected usage.

The Resurfacing Process

Resurfacing is the application of a new layer of asphalt over a prepared base, whether that base is newly milled or otherwise prepped. After the milling process, resurfacing follows to add a fresh, durable asphalt layer that can handle heavy foot and vehicle traffic. Resurfacing is crucial for businesses aiming to restore the look and functionality of their asphalt without the cost and disruption of full replacement.

Asphalt Milling and Resurfacing: The Ultimate Guide for Businesses

During resurfacing, the freshly milled surface provides ideal traction for the new asphalt layer, ensuring optimal adhesion and a smooth, even finish. This makes resurfacing particularly beneficial for areas with heavy vehicle traffic, where maintaining a level and consistent surface is essential for both safety and aesthetic reasons.

Benefits of Asphalt Resurfacing for Businesses

Enhanced Curb Appeal: A fresh asphalt surface adds to the professional appearance of a business, creating a smooth, attractive entryway that’s welcoming to customers and clients.

Improved Safety: Resurfacing removes common hazards like potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces that can lead to accidents or injuries, making the area safer for both pedestrians and vehicles.

Extended Lifespan: By applying a new asphalt layer over a milled or prepped base, resurfacing strengthens the entire pavement structure, adding years of durability and reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

Reduced Maintenance Costs: Regular resurfacing helps avoid extensive damage that would require costly repairs. This preventive approach keeps the pavement in good condition, saving businesses money in the long run.

Increased Property Value: Well-maintained parking lots and driveways are assets, adding value to commercial properties. Resurfacing is an investment that reflects positively on the business and can attract more customers.

Comparing Milling and Resurfacing to Full Replacement

While milling and resurfacing offer practical benefits, they aren’t suitable for all asphalt issues. Full asphalt replacement is often necessary when the underlying base is compromised. If the sub-base is weak, adding layers of asphalt won’t prevent deeper cracks or structural issues from recurring. Full replacement involves excavating the damaged asphalt, repairing or reinforcing the sub-base, and then installing new asphalt, which provides a fresh start and solid foundation.

However, full replacement is both time- and cost-intensive, so for many businesses, milling and resurfacing offer a more practical and affordable solution. By selectively addressing surface-level issues, milling and resurfacing can restore appearance and functionality without the need for the extensive work of a complete rebuild.

Choosing the Right Contractor for Milling and Resurfacing

Selecting a contractor experienced in asphalt milling and resurfacing is crucial for businesses to ensure quality results. Here are some important considerations when choosing a contractor:

Local Experience and Knowledge: Asphalt composition and conditions can vary based on climate, traffic load, and soil composition. An experienced local contractor will understand these variables and tailor their approach to meet regional needs.

Specialized Equipment: Effective milling requires specialized machinery and skilled operators. Contractors with the right tools and experience can efficiently mill and resurface while minimizing disruption to business operations.

Transparent Estimates and Detailed Plans: A reputable contractor provides clear pricing and a timeline for completion, so there are no surprises. This includes an assessment of the existing asphalt condition and the thickness of milling and resurfacing required.

Strong Reputation and Proven Results: Look for a contractor with a track record of successful milling and resurfacing projects. Reviews and testimonials from other businesses can provide valuable insight into the quality and reliability of their work.

Environmentally Responsible Practices: With a growing focus on sustainability, many businesses prefer contractors who recycle millings and follow environmentally friendly practices, reducing the environmental impact of their projects.

Asphalt Milling and Resurfacing: An Investment in Longevity and Appearance

For businesses, keeping asphalt surfaces in good condition is not only a matter of aesthetics but also functionality and safety. Asphalt milling and resurfacing allow for quick, efficient, and cost-effective repairs that help maintain accessibility, reduce liability, and extend the life of the pavement. Especially for properties that see high traffic, periodic milling and resurfacing ensure that the pavement can continue to perform well, even under heavy use.

With the guidance of a skilled contractor, businesses can achieve long-lasting results through milling and resurfacing, addressing both surface and structural issues as needed. Whether it’s a heavily used parking lot or a walkway that’s seen better days, these methods provide durable, attractive solutions that stand the test of time.