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The Impact of Wildfires on Asphalt Pavement Roads

Unfortunately, it seems like wildfires have become more common during the past few years. Even though wildfires have traditionally been an issue on the west coast, wildfires in Colorado have also become a major concern. Wildfires can burn vegetation, burned down neighborhoods, and release dangerous chemicals into the air. Even though asphalt does not typically burn during a wildfire, there are other significant issues that could rise to the surface. What is the impact of wildfires on asphalt surfaces? Take a look at a few important points below, and make sure you rely on a commercial asphalt company that can help you manage this issue.

Why Doesn’t Asphalt Burn During a Wildfire?

Anyone who has touched an asphalt surface in the middle of the summer understands that asphalt can heat up very quickly. Because of its dark color, it absorbs a significant amount of light. At the same time, asphalt usually does not catch fire during a wildfire. Many of the ingredients used to make up asphalt are not combustible. The vast majority of asphalt is made up of sand and small stones. These are not items that catch fire very easily. Furthermore, asphalt burns at a temperature that is lower than its ignition temperature. This means that asphalt is far more likely to melt and evaporate before it catches fire.

Items On Top of the Asphalt Might Catch Fire

Even though asphalt itself is unlikely to catch fire, substances on top of the surface might catch fire instead. If you see an asphalt surface on fire, this could be due to oils that are on top of the road. For example, cars that drive down the road may leak motor oil. Oil can catch fire, and it is not unusual to see it while burning on top of an asphalt pavement. Furthermore, vehicles can catch fire on top of the road. The fuel inside of cars and trucks is combustible, causing them to catch fire on the surface.

There Are Other Impacts from Wildfires on Asphalt

Even if the asphalt does not catch fire, there are other adverse impacts. For example, firefighting vehicles that travel the roads can cause damage. Particularly in rural areas, many of these roads are not built for heavy traffic. As the pavement heats up, it becomes more pliable. Therefore, it is not strong enough to resist a lot of these stresses. In some cases, the pavement can melt or crack, leading to significant problems. When the asphalt begins to crack, water can infiltrate underneath the road, leading to potholes. Finally, there are also a lot of risks related to chemicals being released into the air as the asphalt degrades. This can lead to serious health problems down the road. For all of these reasons, it is important to work with a company that has experience dealing with commercial asphalt.

Work with a Commercial Asphalt Company

Asphalt pavement is not impervious to damage during a wildfire. That is why it is important to work with concrete contractors who have experience in this area. You need to make sure that your asphalt surfaces are able to withstand the impact of a wildfire. If you partner with a professional who has experience in this area, you can ensure the integrity of your asphalt pavement for years to come. Even if there is a wildfire, your asphalt pavement may be able to stand up to the stress.

By admin Asphalt Paving • • • 0 Comments

Why Isn’t My Asphalt Surface Smooth?

One of the reasons why you should use a professional asphalt contractor to lay your asphalt is because you can encounter a lot of issues if you attempt to lay asphalt yourself. One of the issues you may encounter is not having an asphalt surface that is smooth. This is problematic because it presents a tripping hazard to those walking on the surface and is not good for bike and car tires. If you have attempted to lay asphalt yourself and the surface is not smooth, here are a few of the reasons why you may have this issue.

Not Enough Asphalt to Bind the Aggregates

Hot asphalt is poured over an aggregate mix to form an asphalt surface, such as a road, driveway or walkway. When asphalt is hot, it has a thick consistency that is slightly soupy or runny. This allows it to get into all of the spaces between the aggregate mixture, creating a solid surface as the asphalt cools and hardens. But, if there is not enough asphalt poured over the aggregate mixture, you may wind up with a surface that is not. If your surface looks lumpy or uneven, this is the most likely cause. Fortunately, this can be relatively easily fixed. A new layer of aggregate and asphalt can be laid by a professional to help even out the surface and make it smooth.

Not Enough Compaction

Another reason why an asphalt surface may not be smooth is because there was not enough compaction. After hot asphalt is poured over an aggregate mixture, that new surface needs to be smoothed. This is done using either a roller or a tamper. Rolling the surface helps to push the hot asphalt down, so it binds to the aggregate mix, while also helping to push out air bubbles. This creates a smooth, level surface. If you notice the surface is not smooth and it looks like rocks or chunks of asphalt are being lifted away, this is the likely culprit. Unfortunately, fixing asphalt that is not properly compacted is not easy. In the worst cases, the entire asphalt surface needs to be removed and needs to be started fresh.

An Unsuitable Aggregate Mix

The final reason why an asphalt surface may not be smooth is because an unsuitable aggregate mix was used. You cannot use any aggregate mix and expect a smooth, level surface. You need to use one that features smooth, crushed rock combined with a mixture of smaller particulates. The exact aggregate mix that is needed will vary based on weather in your area, how much moisture your area gets and how you intend on using the asphalt surface. A professional knows what type of aggregate mix is ideal for your asphalt surface, whereas the average person has no idea what mix to use. There is no way to correct a surface that is not smooth due to the wrong aggregate mix.

If you have an asphalt surface that is not smooth, or you need a new asphalt surface laid, reach out to an asphalt contractor near me. They can ensure that there is enough asphalt to bind the aggregates, ensure the surface is properly compacted and use the right aggregate mix for your surface. Reach out to your preferred professional asphalt contractor today.

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How to Fix a Crumbling Asphalt Driveway

If your asphalt is beginning to show signs of wear, age, or disrepair, it is important to repair the issues in a timely manner. If you fail to do so, the problems within your asphalt surface may worsen. What may have started out as a simple fix may turn into a major repair problem. Read on to learn more about the signs of damaged asphalt and how damaged asphalt can be fixed.

Signs Your Asphalt is In Need of Repair

There are a number of signs that your asphalt may give you if it is in need of repair. Some of the signs that your asphalt may need repairs are seeing the asphalt crumble or erode away, seeing cracks in the asphalt, or seeing depressions, holes, or potholes on your asphalt surface. Another sign that your asphalt may need to be repaired is seeing water puddling or pooling on the surface. Water that is puddling or pooling instead of draining away from asphalt can cause crumbling, cracks, and depressions.

How to Fix a Crumbling Asphalt Driveway

If you notice that there is damage to your asphalt surface, such as crumbling, cracking, or depressions, you will want to call in an asphalt contractor who offers asphalt repair. The first thing that they will do is remove any debris from the surface of the asphalt. This involves removing asphalt and aggregate from cracks and potholes. Once that is done, the asphalt surface will be cleaned. Patches and fills stick best to asphalt that is cleaned. If there is debris on the asphalt, such as oil or food, it can prevent the filler from properly adhering. Once the area is free from debris and cleaned, a professional will use a filler to fill in cracks, holes, depressions, or asphalt erosion. Once the filler is in place, it will be rolled so that it is compacted and so your asphalt surface is completely level.

How to Protect an Asphalt Driveway

If you have a new asphalt surface, or if you have just had yours repaired, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to protect the asphalt surface from damage. While you cannot prevent all types of damage, seal coating an asphalt surface helps to prevent cracking, erosion, and potholes and depressions from forming. The surface of the asphalt should be coated after a surface has been installed or repaired, and every two to three years thereafter.

Reasons to Hire an Asphalt Contractor for Asphalt Repair

If your asphalt is in need of repair, you may find yourself wondering whether you can make the repairs yourself or whether you should hire an asphalt contractor to make the repairs for you. While home improvement stores do sell asphalt patching kits that allow you to make minor repairs to your asphalt surfaces yourself, these kits generally do not solve the problem for a prolonged period of time. They may be quick fixes but they do not last. A professional can properly patch or repair your asphalt so the problem is fixed and so your asphalt functions as good as new once again.

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How To Solve Commercial Sidewalk Violations in Colorado

Commercial sidewalks are identified by their colossal pedestrian volumes, active ground floors, street-facing entrances, spillovers of commercial activity, and loading-related activities. They are mostly found on commercial streets, which vary in size from significant streets to small alleys.

In Colorado, many regulations are governing residential sidewalks, commercial sidewalks, and main street sidewalks. It is essential to notice rules and sidewalk violations in Colorado controlling commercial sidewalks to avoid fines and penalties.

Six common sidewalk violations in Colorado

Commercial sidewalks in Denver are vital as they promote pedestrian safety and increase people and goods’ ease of mobility. Sidewalks also encourage business development and recreational activities.

A sidewalk violation is an official notice from the Department of Transport (DOT) stating that the sidewalk is defective and a fine or penalty made, and repairs done to meet the set guidelines. Once you are issued with a violation notice, you will be allotted 75 days to fix the sidewalk or pay the DOT to do it for you.

Below are some of the commercial sidewalk violations in Colorado:

1. Chipped Sides

Chipped sides are sides that have loose chips or serrated sides. They can hurt the feet of those walking on them by causing the user to fall or, in extreme cases, scrub the skin of pedestrians.

2. Cracked Slabs

With time, slabs are subjected to harsh weather, fluctuating temperatures, over-usage, or misuse. Due to inferior quality construction materials such as poorly mixed concrete, they develop lines of cracks or break down unevenly in extreme cases.

The cracked slabs threaten pedestrians as they could strike their feet and cause them to stumble or hurt their feet. In some cases, they could cause certain shoe types to stick in them and damage the shoes, which could evoke resentment from the shoe owners.

3. UNeven Tile Placement

During tile placement, some tiles could be placed at varying levels causing their edges to remain exposed. Such tile placements decrease the aesthetic value of the sidewalk. Those using such sidewalks could trip and get injured. Unevenly leveled slabs also cause poor drainage, which shortens the lifespan of sidewalks.

4. Metal Inlets and Sewer Covers Exposed

Many utility holes, underground maintenance lines, and sewer drainage lines are built into the sidewalk. Exposed covers and inlets of these lines can cause people to stumble as they walk on the sidewalk, especially when they rise. If they’re loose, their exposed side also poses a risk to sidewalk users.

5. Plant and Tree Growth

As trees mature, they develop more prominent and more complex roots, sometimes exposed to sidewalks. The roots can cause people to trip and fall. Furthermore, roots can crack slabs, cause the sidewalk to have chipped sides, or dislodge manhole covers. If the tree is growing close to tiles, it may dislodge the tiles from its base. Trees thus create additional three violations when they expose their roots.

6. Snow and Ice

Sidewalks can turn into dangerous places during winter. Snow and ice cause inaccessibility and discourage movement. Ice could cause pedestrians to slip and get hurt.

How to Bring the Sidewalk Back to Standards

With the correct knowledge and strategy, dealing with sidewalk violations in Colorado can be a piece of cake.

Follow these tips to deal with your sidewalk:

Dealing With Trees That Cause Violations

To deal with the tree roots causing problems, it may be advisable to remove the tree. Cutting down the tree is the first step and has to be followed by removing the stump connected to the roots damaging your sidewalk. To do this, you also have to get a permit from the city.

After removing the tree stump, you could replace the sidewalk or contact asphalt companies to quote the full replacement quotes. Also, remember to replace the tree as they too are essential for the environment.

Do a Complete Overhaul and Replace With Asphalt

Asphalt is a sturdy and uniform substance that is used to make roads and sidewalks. Replacing broken slabs, uneven or broken tiles, and chipped sides with asphalt has the following advantages:

  • Asphalt is continuous; hence any unevenness does not pose any risk to pedestrians
  • Asphalt is rugged and durable in all weathers, which means it rarely cracks, and even when cracks occur, they are minute and cannot harm pedestrians.
  • Asphalt is relatively cheap to purchase, use and also maintain.
  • Using asphalt is faster than using slabs and tiles.
  • Asphalt makes it easier to clear ice and snow during winter.

If you seek to use asphalt, it is recommended to seek certified asphalt companies in Denver. The company should handle the whole replacement process, from acquiring permits to restoring the environment after the overhaul.

Remove Ice and Snow from Sidewalks

The municipal authority of Colorado stipulates that the responsible party of a commercial property should remove ice and snow after 24 hours of snowfall and where snow is greater than 4 inches. Use salt or brine to eliminate the snow, or hire a snow removal company to do the job.

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Subcontractor and Commercial Concrete Contractor : What’s the Difference?

If you are looking for someone who can help you with your upcoming concrete project, you have multiple options available. You might be considering working with a subcontractor or a commercial concrete contractor. What is the difference between these two options? What do you need to know? There are a few key points to keep in mind.

What Is a Subcontractor?

A subcontractor is a company or agent that has been hired by another contractor to help with a specific area of your project. For example, if you hire someone to help you build your house, then your home contractor might hire a subcontractor to handle the electrical work if he or she does not have experience in this area. A construction company might also hire a subcontractor to help with the driveway if he or she does not have someone on the team that can handle that job. The subcontractor reports to the original contractor, not you, if he or she has a question or payment concern. If the contractor hires subcontractors he or she is in charge of them, not you.

What Is a Commercial Concrete Contractor?

Another option is to hire commercial concrete companies. A commercial concrete contractor is someone who has specific training and experience to handle concrete needs as they relate to your project. If you want your project to be done correctly the first time around, then you should go with a commercial concrete contractor.

For example, a commercial concrete contractor will likely be up to date on the latest trends in his or her field. That way, he or she can follow all best practices to deliver the best outcome to you. In addition, if you hire a commercial concrete contractor, then that professional is going to be directly responsible and accountable to you instead of another contractor. This is the biggest difference between hiring a subcontractor and a commercial concrete contractor.

What Are the Top Benefits of Working with Commercial Concrete Companies?

If you decide to work with a commercial concrete contractor, there are a few main benefits that you are going to notice. These include:

  • A commercial concrete contractor has the specialized training and experience required to make sure that your project goes well.
  • A commercial concrete contractor will connections in the industry that he or she can use to make sure that you get the best price possible on all supplies.
  • Commercial concrete companies will also know who else to talk to if you have concerns about other areas of your project.
  • A commercial concrete company will provide you with an accurate estimate and make sure the project is done on time because he or she is accountable to you.

These are the top benefits of working with a commercial concrete contractor. You need to think about these benefits when you are deciding who to hire.

Work with a Professional Commercial Concrete Contractor

These are just a few of the many benefits of working with a commercial concrete contractor if you are looking for help with your concrete project. Make sure that you reach out to a professional commercial concrete contractor with any questions or concerns. If you work with an expert commercial concrete contractor, you will place your project in the best position to be successful.