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Considerations For Calculating The Cost Of A Line Striping Project

Considerations For Calculating The Cost Of A Line Striping Project

Line striping is a line painting technique used for traffic control. It includes applying line-markings to a surface and clearly indicating lane boundaries. Line marking can also be applied at intersections to guide pedestrians. The main purpose of line striping is safety. You may be wondering how much does line striping cost? Well, it all depends on your specific project needs. When calculating line striping costs, there are many things to consider, including location, the number of line stripes needed, length of time, etc. Let’s discuss these considerations in detail to understand what goes into a line striping project. Location The location where you need to apply line stripes will play an essential role in determining the cost of your project because there are different types of striping products available for each environment (e.g., indoor vs. outdoor). When it comes to calculating your line striping project’s cost, there are many factors you should consider, such as: Whether line striping is for indoors or outdoors The surface of the line (e.g., solid or dotted line) The line striping’s color And more! Number of Line Stripes Needed The cost of line stripe projects can vary depending on the number of lines in your project and their size. The size and length of the lines you want to stripe or mark on your surface determines the number of line stripes needed for a project. With line striping, it is usually best to use a line width of 12 inches or more. If you use less than this amount, the lines may be too small and difficult for people to see. To determine the cost, here are a few things you will have to consider: line count number of lines needed for your project how many line stripes do you want to have in total? line width and height total line length line spacing between stripes Length of Time Longer line striping projects require more time and effort, which also means they cost more. If you have a line striping request with an urgent deadline, it will cost more than a project with no urgency. New Line Striping or Restriping? You may hear line striping contractors ask you if you want new line striping or restriping because brand new line striping can cost up to three times more than simply restriping the same lines on an existing parking lot. This price difference is due to the equipment used and how long ago the parking lot was line striped. Line striping is an essential part of any parking lot maintenance plan. It helps make your facility more safe, visible, and accessible for drivers in the area. Straight Edge Contractors LLC is here to help you with all your line striping needs. We are the go-to contractor for parking lot and traffic lane striping, as well as other asphalt services. If your business requires line striping service, we would be happy to help. Give us a call today so we can schedule an appointment. Straight Edge Contractors LLC is here for all your asphalt paving, repair, and line-restriping requirements in Midland, TX. Schedule Your Free Estimate!

5 Signs Your Asphalt Pavement Needs Repair

5 Signs Your Asphalt Pavement Needs Repair

1. Cracks in the Surface A crack is a sign of fatigue in asphalt and may indicate that asphalt has been significantly overworked by traffic. Cracks need to be fixed quickly before they get bigger and potentially lead to potholes. Cracks result from soil expansion or shrinkage, shifts in grade, frost heave, or other natural occurrences that may cause asphalt to crack. An asphalt paving contractor will need to come out and assess the condition of your asphalt before deciding what kind of repairs are needed. 2. Humps Asphalt pavement is designed to have some room for expansion when water collects on the surface, but if you start noticing humps forming, this could mean that water isn’t draining away from the area quickly enough. 3. Bumpiness This can be a sign that asphalt is worn down and needs to be resurfaced. You can tell asphalt is worn down when the asphalt has lost its “bounce.” It should be repaired ASAP to prevent it from getting worse and causing costly damage. 4. Potholes One of the most obvious signs of asphalt wear and tear are potholes. They form on asphalt that has deteriorated and has lost its resilience, so it can’t withstand pressure from cars or other heavy loads. 5. Water Pooling A water puddle on an asphalt surface typically means there are cracked or damaged areas where water has penetrated and pooled due to uneven slabs or joints. When water seeps into asphalt it can leave behind moisture and debris in the cracks of the surface. Excess water can cause the surface to soften and eventually deteriorate, leaving the pavement no longer able to withstand vehicular traffic. It is essential to address water pooling as soon as possible by contacting a professional asphalt contractor with expertise in asphalt repair. The Final Word While the top five signs your asphalt pavement needs repair may not all be easy to spot, addressing them is crucial for your property. If you’re unsure what to do, connect with us at Straight Edge Contractors LLC. Our experts are skilled in repairing all kinds of asphalt damage using high-quality materials, equipment, and advanced techniques to restore your surface to its pristine condition. We do this and more, all while keeping your budget in mind too! We want all businesses in Las Cruces suffering from aging or damaged asphalt surfaces to get back up and running without delay. We believe asphalt repair is an investment in convenience, safety, and curb appeal! Give us a call today so we can schedule an appointment. Schedule Your Free Estimate!

5 Signs Your Asphalt Pavement Needs Repair

Considerations For Calculating The Cost Of A Line Striping Project

Asphalt is one of the most common types of paving materials used in construction. It is valued for its durability, low cost, and ease of installation. However, asphalt pavement can deteriorate over time due to several factors, including age, traffic volume, environmental conditions (such as temperature), and other external forces. The best way to know if your asphalt pavement requires repair is by looking out for these five signs. 1. Cracks in the Surface A crack is a sign of fatigue in asphalt and may indicate that asphalt has been significantly overworked by traffic. Cracks need to be fixed quickly before they get bigger and potentially lead to potholes. Cracks result from soil expansion or shrinkage, shifts in grade, frost heave, or other natural occurrences that may cause asphalt to crack. An asphalt paving contractor will need to come out and assess the condition of your asphalt before deciding what kind of repairs are needed. 2. Humps Asphalt pavement is designed to have some room for expansion when water collects on the surface, but if you start noticing humps forming, this could mean that water isn’t draining away from the area quickly enough. 3. Bumpiness This can be a sign that asphalt is worn down and needs to be resurfaced. You can tell asphalt is worn down when the asphalt has lost its “bounce.” It should be repaired ASAP to prevent it from getting worse and causing costly damage. 4. Potholes One of the most obvious signs of asphalt wear and tear are potholes. They form on asphalt that has deteriorated and has lost its resilience, so it can’t withstand pressure from cars or other heavy loads. 5. Water Pooling A water puddle on an asphalt surface typically means there are cracked or damaged areas where water has penetrated and pooled due to uneven slabs or joints. When water seeps into asphalt it can leave behind moisture and debris in the cracks of the surface. Excess water can cause the surface to soften and eventually deteriorate, leaving the pavement no longer able to withstand vehicular traffic. It is essential to address water pooling as soon as possible by contacting a professional asphalt contractor with expertise in asphalt repair. The Final Word While the top five signs your asphalt pavement needs repair may not all be easy to spot, addressing them is crucial for your property. If you’re unsure what to do, connect with us at Straight Edge Contractors LLC. Our experts are skilled in repairing all kinds of asphalt damage using high-quality materials, equipment, and advanced techniques to restore your surface to its pristine condition. We do this and more, all while keeping your budget in mind too! We want all businesses in Las Cruces suffering from aging or damaged asphalt surfaces to get back up and running without delay. We believe asphalt repair is an investment in convenience, safety, and curb appeal! Give us a call today so we can schedule an appointment. Schedule Your Free Estimate!

The Benefits Of Maintaining Your Concrete Curb And Gutter

The Benefits Of Maintaining Your Concrete Curb And Gutter

The concrete curb and gutter are a vital part of any home’s exterior. Just like other materials, concrete does not last forever. So, you will need to regularly maintain it over time to continue enjoying its benefits for years to come. We all know that maintaining a property can be expensive, but it is worth the expense. Hire a professional contractor like Straight Edge Contractors LLC in El Paso, TX, for regular maintenance of your property. The four benefits listed below will help you understand the importance of maintaining your concrete curb and gutter. If you’re the owner of a home with a concrete curb and gutter, then this blog post is for you! 1. Helps Prevent Erosion Concrete is a naturally water-resistant material. However, without regular maintenance, it will wear down and become prone to erosion. Erosion can lead to significant structural damage like cracks in the concrete or even complete collapse of your curb! The best way to prevent this issue? Keep up with regular maintenance of your concrete curb and gutter. You can also install an anti-erosion membrane on top of your existing surface for additional protection. 2. Discourages Drivers from Sidewalk Parking The problem with sidewalk parking is that it’s an inconvenience for the pedestrians on the sidewalks. The best way to discourage drivers from using these areas is by adding concrete curbs and gutters. Additionally, concrete curb and gutters also help in providing the much-needed structural support to a pavement. 3. Adds Aesthetic Appeal You can also use curb and gutter maintenance to make your property more aesthetically pleasing. If you don’t want any plants or flowers in front of your house, then a simple concrete curb will do the trick! With an attractive exterior design that complements the curves of your home’s architecture, you’ll have a beautifully landscaped yard while still maintaining curb appeal. 4. Promotes Efficient Drainage Curb and gutter maintenance promote an efficient drainage mechanism by helping water flow away from the building or down a storm drain. Not maintaining drains may result in repairs as debris and leaves may accumulate, resulting in slow drainage and high groundwater levels, especially during the rainy season. You may not think of curb and gutter maintenance when you’re thinking about all the necessary activities to keep your property in good condition, but as you can see from the list above, it’s an essential part of the overall maintenance plan! If you reside in El Paso, TX, you can always call on the professionals at Straight Edge Contractors LLC for reliable concrete maintenance. We provide complete maintenance and repair services, ensuring that your property gets the look it deserves. Feel free to share all your pavement problems with us and enjoy exemplary services at affordable rates. Get a free estimate now! Schedule Your Free Estimate!

5 Things Many Property Owners Do Not Know About Crack Sealing

5 Things Many Property Owners Do Not Know About Crack Sealing

What is crack sealing? Crack sealing is an asphalt repair technique that involves applying a sealant to cracks in the pavement. The crack sealant creates a strong bond between the asphalt and any moisture present, which helps prevent moisture from seeping into the ground below. While crack seals are not as effective as full-depth repairs for larger cracks, they do help to make your parking lot safer by eliminating potential tripping hazards. This blog post explains five things that many property owners may not know about crack sealing. 1. Crack sealing is a time-tested fix which is considered the most cost-effective preventive maintenance method as it prevents water from seeping through the cracks and eroding the base of the pavement, causing further asphalt deterioration. 2. The best time to perform crack sealing is in the spring or fall. Your asphalt pavement expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations, so sealing cracks during these times of year is more effective because it’s when they’re halfway between their minimum and maximum movement. 3. Most property owners don’t realize that it is necessary to prepare the crack before sealing for a more lasting repair. In fact, crack preparation can increase the longevity of the seal by 40%. There are two ways crack preparation is done. The first is the routing or saw cutting preparation method that involves creating a reservoir, so there is enough room for the sealant to adhere to the crack’s sides. The other method calls for using a blower or compressor to blow out any dirt and debris from the crack before the sealant is applied. 4. Over-applying the crack sealant is a common mistake that can be avoided by using a disc on the equipment or having the contracting team follow up with squeegees to ensure the sealant lies tight against surfaces. This is important before resurfacing because hot mix asphalt will melt the excess sealant, creating bumps on the pavement as it cools down. A roller coming along can cause machinery to slip if there’s more melted sealant beneath it than necessary. 5. You may be surprised to learn that crack sealing cannot be used to repair all kinds of cracks. For example, alligator cracks require resurfacing, patching, or repaving; a simple sealant fix cannot hold for long. There are various types of cracks that can be found on an asphalt pavement with varying extents of damage and causes. Thus, in order to determine if crack sealing is the right option for you, you first need to identify the type of crack marring your surface, and for this it is always best to consult the experts! Finally, crack sealing is a simple process that can save you money and help protect your property for years to come. If you reside in El Paso, TX, don’t risk cracking up your investment! Get in touch with Straight Edge Contractors today to get a free estimate for crack sealing your driveway or parking lot. Schedule Your Free Estimate!

3 Methods To Stop Weed Growth In Your Concrete Pavement

3 Methods To Stop Weed Growth In Your Concrete Pavement

Weeds are a nuisance that can ruin a beautiful paver floor. Weeds growing between paving stones or within joints cause unsightly patches that are not only unattractive, but they also attract pests such as roaches and ants. Homeowners need to take action before weeds take over their new paver installation! Here are three ways you can stop weed growth. 1. Use a Pre-Emergent Herbicide on Your Lawn Every Year Pre-emergent herbicides prevent weed seeds from sprouting in the first place by blocking them before they can get a foothold. It’s essential to apply these herbicides at the right time since they work best when applied at least three months before weeds emerge and then again two weeks after application if rain is expected within that time frame. You should also make sure you only use pre-emergent on lawns as it can harm other plants! Using pre-emergent herbicides on your lawn each year prevents weed growth between paving stones or joints, giving your paver installation an even cleaner appearance. It also helps in cleaning paving stones and ensuring no dirt collects around them. An experienced contractor like Straight Edge Contractors LLC in Midland, TX, can advise you on correct paver maintenance. 2. Don’t Keep the Grass Too Short Regularly mowing the lawn is an excellent way to keep weeds away, but not if you cut the grass too short! If your blade cuts off more than two inches of healthy green turf, then it will leave an unprotected edge where weed seeds can germinate and take hold in the soil. Mow at least three times a month for best results: this means approximately one inch every time! When cutting your grass, make sure that you don’t have any tall bushes or trees nearby, as these may block the sunlight from reaching those areas right under them. The less sun on certain sections of your yard, the greater chance they’ll become overgrown with weeds. 3. Install a Pre-Formed Weed Barrier Under Concrete Pavers A weed barrier will prevent weeds from coming up through the concrete pavers and reaching the surface. There are two types of pre-formed weed barriers: plastic sheets installed quickly or a felt mat system that takes more time to install, but is much stronger than plastic. We recommend using both methods for complete prevention against weeds growing through the pavers for new paver installations. If you’re dealing with an existing installation, then use just one method to cover exposed areas so that no new weeds grow there as well. If you’re looking for advice on preventing weed growth from a reliable concrete contractor, then Straight Edge Contractors LLC is the right choice. We offer first-rate asphalt and concrete paving solutions that are affordable for commercial and residential clients in Midland, TX. Get a free estimate from our team now! Schedule Your Free Estimate!

Why Is My Asphalt Surface Not Smooth Enough?

Why Is My Asphalt Surface Not Smooth Enough?

As pavement experts, Straight Edge Contractors LLC has been building stellar asphalt driveways and parking lots for many years for its customers in Las Cruces and other parts of Texas. Our experience and knowledge help us differentiate between a rushed pavement installation and one that follows all best practices with precision. The asphalt’s texture is an obvious giveaway; an irregular surface is often the result of a substandard pavement installation job. Whether due to a botched DIY effort or a professional project gone wrong, a bumpy pavement tells the story. Why Is Having a Smooth Asphalt Surface Important? Uneven and rough asphalt surfaces are vulnerable to water seeping down through gaps, whether due to rain or other reason. Although this may not be of enormous concern during the summer season, the water will freeze and expand during the winters. The expanding water will exert pressure on the asphalt and put a strain on it. The continuous pressure will cause the pavement to crumble eventually. The constant freezing and thawing cycle cause your asphalt to break down, and you’ll see cracks and potholes emerging on the pavement, signaling further deterioration. 3 Reasons Why the Asphalt Surface is Not Smooth Enough 1. No Compaction If you can kick loose bits of aggregate or asphalt and feel them under your feet when walking, it is a sign that your surface was not compacted properly. This means that the last layer of the pavement was not left to dry for a sufficient amount of time. Asphalt compaction is necessary to remove the excess air from the asphalt. This helps in eliminating all bubbles and gaps on the surface. Since there is a small window of time to nail the proper compaction density, inexperienced contractors often mess it up at this stage of the construction process. 2. Lack of Asphalt to Bind Aggregates If the finished asphalt paving has bits chipping off or feels lumpy, there was not enough asphalt to bind it together. This is because the contractor may have miscalculated the asphalt requirements and did not have enough asphalt to combine the aggregate. In the future, you need to ensure that the contractor uses asphalt wisely and has enough asphalt to complete the project. 3. The Wrong Aggregate Mix Having the right aggregate mix plays a crucial role in your asphalt’s performance. An incorrect mix can compromise your pavement’s integrity in the future, leaving you with a rough and uneven asphalt surface. The aggregator, a contractor, should be a mixture of smaller particles and crushed rock, so it compacts together easily. Crushed aggregate provides the strength to hold paving together; without it, your asphalt pavement will not be smooth enough. If you’re looking for smooth asphalt paving results in Las Cruces, TX, then Straight Edge Contractors LLC is a reliable name which you can trust. We provide asphalt paving services at affordable rates and use the latest technology and procedures to ensure your asphalt surface looks smooth and does not crumble soon after installation. Try our services for yourself, get a free estimate from our team! Schedule Your Free Estimate!

How To Determine If It’s Time To Schedule A Sealcoating Service

How To Determine If It’s Time To Schedule A Sealcoating Service

Sealcoating is a cost-effective and a proven method for preventing premature distress and maintaining the natural shine of your driveway or parking lot. Not only does sealcoating renew the look of the pavement, but it also extends its lifespan by eliminating all cracks and openings. Damages from harmful external elements like water, sunlight, chemical spills, and UV rays weaken asphalt surfaces, making them vulnerable to cracks and potholes. Sealcoating acts as a very effective defense from the dangers posed by both internal and external threats. It adds value to your property while delivering strong and durable results that make your pavement stand out. Experts recommend sealcoating asphalt pavement every two to five years, depending on the extent of use and wear and tear it goes through. Generally, the color of your asphalt pavement is a good indicator of whether it is time to seal again. A competent contractor like Straight Edge Contractors LLC in Midland, TX can offer valuable advice and deliver top-quality sealcoating services. Although the period between April and June is the best time to sealcoat your pavement, you still need to consider various factors before making the final call. The Pavement is Clearly Wearing Out As a property owner, you need to make efforts to revitalize and energize your pavement once every few years. Excessive use and an adverse external environment can take the natural shine off your driveway, giving it a gray and dull look. Inability to carry out frequent maintenance measures can also result in cracks that can develop into something more threatening if left untreated. The growing cracks, the dull outlook, and years of continuous use suggest that your parking lot needs immediate help. Avoiding or delaying maintenance activities at this stage may result in a hefty repair cost where you may be required to resurface or repave the entire pavement. Sealcoating restores your pavement’s original look and helps save you a considerable sum by avoiding future repair costs. Why Spring Is the Best Time to Sealcoat The pleasant weather conditions during the spring season make it one of the most appropriate times of the year to sealcoat your parking lot. The low humidity levels and the rising temperatures help quickly drying and evaporating liquids from the sealcoat sealer. While the spring season is the perfect time to sealcoat a driveway, you must choose a suitable date for the maintenance procedure. Check the weather forecast and avoid sealcoating when rain is expected because the excessive moisture can wreak havoc on all your efforts, damaging the pavement sealcoat. Budget Although sealcoating is not a huge expense, it is still a sizable expense that you must fully commit to once you decide to go for it. This is why you must have the resources to hire reliable, professional contractors for the job. Straight Edge Contractors LLC is the premier asphalt service provider in Midland, TX, offering quality sealcoating services at an affordable price. Our professionals are equipped with the latest machinery and quality materials that help them deliver long-lasting results. Get a free estimate for the services we offer. Schedule Your Free Estimate!

Can Paving Projects Be Completed Year-Round In West Texas?

Can Paving Projects Be Completed Year-Round In West Texas?

When you think of West Texas, or Texas alone, you think of dry, parched deserts, blistering heat, and scorching temperatures – enough to fry an egg without needing a stove! However, it’s not all true – West Texas, although mostly arid, dry, and heavily dependent on rainfall for the healthy cultivation of crops, does encounter occasional snowfalls. But this is only true for the northern parts of West Texas, like the Texas Panhandle, and not El Paso, which is situated in the far western region of Texas. So, bearing this information in mind, the question that many property owners may ask is; can paving projects be completed year-round in Texas? Let’s find out! Sealcoating Your pavement is going to suffer major wear and tear over the passage of time, in which case, regular asphalt maintenance such as sealcoating is imperative to extend your surface’s lifespan. But when sealcoating, paving contractors always take heed to get the job done while the temperature outside is higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because the hotter the climate, the faster your seal coat will dry and have time to cure, meaning the quicker you’ll be able to resume your business’ activity. However, this doesn’t mean sealcoating during winter is impossible. It just means it’ll take longer for your seal coat to dry off before applying the second seal coat layer (sealcoating is always a two-layer coating process). And for this reason, your paving contractor will always urge you to get sealcoating done during the summer or late spring. Asphalt Paving Work never stops in the asphalt paving industry, regardless of the climate you are in. However, it is true that paving asphalt surfaces can become a tad bit challenging during colder temperatures. In this case, your paving contractor may have already devised a plan on how to pave your asphalt surface despite the obstacles! However, paving asphalt surfaces during winters shouldn’t be a hindrance for property owners in El Paso, TX, as the weather rarely reaches freezing temperatures. So yes, paving asphalt surfaces year round in a place like West Texas shouldn’t be a problem! Crack Sealing The best part about crack sealing is that it can be done any time of the year, preferably during spring and fall season. The reason for this is because all crack sealing requires is a dry crack and a temperature of at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit and voila! Your crack sealing job is done! But while we are at it, let’s talk about how crack sealing is the favored option as opposed to crack filling. To start off, crack sealing is comprised and strategically engineered to bond the walls of the crack together, thereby preventing water intrusion in the cracks. And thanks to its use of specialized materials, a crack sealant remains flexible at the lowest temperatures without cracking or splitting open, and remains stable at the highest temperatures so it doesn’t bleed on the pavement. Crack sealing is a long-term solution to your pavement’s preservation while crack filling acts as a temporary band-aid. So in short, crack sealing can be performed year round in West Texas and lasts a lot longer than any crack filling job! Looking to work with a paving company who will be at your service all-year-round? Straight Edge Contractors LLC is the perfect choice for property owners in El Paso, TX, in the search for asphalt and concrete pavement solutions! Click here to get started now! Schedule Your Free Estimate!

How To Find The Right Contractor For Large Paving Projects

How To Find The Right Contractor For Large Paving Projects

There is no denying that a slick-looking asphalt or concrete pavement leaves an unforgettable impression on your customers. The challenge, however, is choosing the right asphalt contractor who can take on large paving projects, get the job done beautifully, and, of course, complete the project on time! Sounds like it’s asking for a lot, isn’t it? Not necessarily! At Straight Edge Contractors LLC, we take pride in ensuring commercial property owners in El Paso, TX, receive top-notch asphalt paving and concrete paving services at economical rates! We never hesitate to undertake large paving projects. This is because we have onboard an expansive team of meticulous paving specialists who have vowed to deliver excellence each time! For more information on our broad range of paving services, head on over to Straight Edge Contractors LLC to get your free paving estimate today! So to end your formidable pursuit of finding an agreeable paving professional who can wrap up your large paving project with utmost finesse, consider these factors mentioned below! 1. Number of Years Working in the Commercial Sector A paving contractor who is agreeing to take on your large paving project without clearly stating their years of experience serving the commercial paving industry is a big fat red flag waving at you, telling you to abort the mission! Why? Because no experienced and accomplished paving company ever hesitates to mention the numbers of years they have been actively and successfully executing sizeable commercial paving projects – unless they have something to hide. In fact, if anything, a well-reputed paving company is always more than happy to share with you the details of the projects and clients they have served in the local area. Tip: Don’t feel guilty about asking your paving contractor about the nitty-gritty details of their prior work. Ask them for how long they have been active tending to large commercial paving projects, who have been their clients, and how they have served them (i.e., which paving service did they provide). 2. Local Presence – Are They Well-Known Enough? This brings us to our next point; are they well-known enough in your local area? The primary reason why asking this is so crucial is simple. Many paving contractors may fool you into believing they are experienced, trusted, and economical. However, in reality, the safest bet is to go with word-of-mouth. Ask people in your local area if they know of reputable paving contractors who fit the bill when it comes to undertaking large paving projects. Ask them who those contractors are, how was there experience with them, which service did they provide best, etc. And if all else fails, well, you always have Google searches to give you a helping hand with your search! Google tactically mentions the most top-ranked paving contractors within your radius. This is your chance to carefully read through the google reviews, take down notes, make phone calls, and perform all background checks necessary before settling with a paving contractor. 3. Licensed & Insured To avoid paying an arm and a leg in the unfortunate event of someone getting injured while working on your commercial property, make sure to choose a licensed and insured paving company. In fact, don’t even bother wasting time with companies that aren’t licensed. You absolutely need to work with licensed and insured paving contractors to avoid any settlement disputes that can cost you a fortune and pave your way to bankruptcy. To conclude, it may seem stressful landing a reliable paving company that will take on the heavy-duty load of performing large commercial projects – but it isn’t impossible! At Straight Edge Contractors LLC, we are your most trusted source of completing both large-scale commercial and residential paving projects in El Paso, TX. To avail of our services, click here and get a free estimate today! Schedule Your Free Estimate!

Why Cracks Should Be Filled In Your Asphalt In The Spring

Why Cracks Should Be Filled In Your Asphalt In The Spring

Crack filling is a more durable asphalt repair method that is used to treat cracks that are too big for crack sealing. In other words, cracks that are deep, wider than ¾ of an inch, are left untreated for a long time and are non-working cracks (have horizontal and/or vertical movements in them less than 0.1 inches). When planning a crack filling project or even creating your annual pavement maintenance budget/calendar, you need to be extra careful about the season you are scheduling the project for. It may sound like an odd thing to say to first-time pavement owners, but this is actually a consideration that can significantly impact the results of your crack filling project. And when we say season, we literally mean seasons like spring, summer, autumn, and winter, not that off/busy season kind of thing. Spring is the ideal time to carry out a crack filling project, followed by autumn. There are three reasons why spring is the #1 choice for crack filling: Emergence of Cracks Winter is the time when your pavement sustains the most damage. Moisture infiltration coupled with the freeze and thaw cycle and our own harmful snow removal practices (frequent salting, use of harsh deicing chemicals and metal-head shovels, and infrequent snow removal) cause extensive damage to asphalt surfaces. Thus, come spring, you will find that your pavement is covered with all sorts of pavement distresses, including cracks and potholes. Therefore, the best time to carry out crack filling is in spring because you need to repair the cracks immediately, or the damage will worsen to the point where you will be left with no other option but to resurface. Curing Time for Filler In crack filling, an asphalt emulsion is used to fill the crack and bind its edges together, after which this emulsion is left to cure/dry. In spring, as we all know, the weather is mild, making it ideal for the asphalt emulsion to cure, as opposed to winter (takes to too long) and summer (dries too quickly). Curing time can affect the durability of your repair, so check the forecast. Also, in order for the edges to properly bind together, there should be no moisture in the crack, which rules out winter because of the snowfall and ice. Size of the Cracks An asphalt surface expands and contracts with changes in temperature, which is also one of the reasons for the formation of the cracks, but apart from that, it also affects the size of the cracks. The size of the cracks directly affects the amount of filler used to repair the cracks. If you crack fill in winter when the cracks are bigger/wider, you will be pouring in more of the asphalt emulsion. When summer arrives, your pavement will expand, causing some of the material inside the crack to come out or pressure causing the crack to reappear. On the other hand, if you fill a crack in the summer, there will only be space for a bit of filler. Come winter, when the pavement contracts, the crack will open up as the asphalt emulsion inside would be insufficient as per the cracks size. Thus, spring is the ideal time to fill cracks as the pavement will not be putting too much or too little asphalt emulsion into the cracks, allowing them to be secured/filled year-round. Straight Edge Contractors LLC is an expert asphalt contractor offering a wide range of solutions to meet the needs of your pavement in Midland, TX. Get a free estimate now! Schedule Your Free Estimate!

What Property Managers Should Know About Sealcoating

What Property Managers Should Know About Sealcoating

As a commercial or residential property owner, your responsibility doesn’t end with asphalt pavement installation. You need to take specific preventive measures to retain the look and performance of asphalt over the years. Routine sealcoating helps extend your pavement’s life and restore that shiny, brand new black look that faded some time ago. It also allows you to avoid hefty asphalt repair costs and liabilities. However, you must know the right time to sealcoat your pavement. For a recently installed asphalt pavement, initial sealcoating should be performed at least after six to twelve months. Experts suggest sealcoating asphalt after every three to five years if the pavement is old and looks worn out. Moreover, the most suitable time for sealcoating is between May and October, when the temperature is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to keep vehicular and foot traffic away from the freshly sealcoated pavement for a minimum of 12 hours. If you are looking for a professional sealcoating contractor to protect your pavement’s optimal condition in Las Cruces, NM, Straight Edge Contractors LLC is the right choice for you. Our experts know all the particulars of asphalt sealcoating and apply the latest techniques to deliver high-quality results. For more information, don’t hesitate to connect with us today! In today’s blog post, we’ll cover the top three benefits of asphalt sealcoating that every property manager should know. 1. Sealcoating Prevents Oxidation Asphalt pavement is made up of various aggregates, including rock and asphalt binder. These materials are prone to oxidation and developing cracks with the temperature changes over time. To prevent this, you must frequently sealcoat your pavement to protect it from the UV rays and other harmful elements that affect the durability and longevity of the asphalt. 2. Ensures Oil and Gas Resistance Your asphalt pavement is likely to get stained with oil spills or other chemical spills that later seep under the cracked or damaged surface. Sealcoating prevents such penetration and offers a protective layer over the asphalt for maximum protection. Moreover, it significantly improves the surface’s traction as compared with non-sealcoated pavement. This also prevents slips and falls on the surface. 3. Extends the Surface’s Service Life Sealcoating every three to five years is a cost-effective way to keep your asphalt in the best possible condition. However, you still need to regularly sweep the surface and follow a routine maintenance plan to protect your investment. After sealcoating, you will enjoy maximum savings and protect yourself from unnecessary repairs. Whether you manage a commercial or residential property, you need to sealcoat your pavement to enhance your asphalt’s look and performance. Connect with Straight Edge Contractors LLC to provide you with exceptional sealcoating services anywhere in Las Cruces, NM. We use premium quality sealant and modern tools and machinery to protect your investment. Get a free quote today! Schedule Your Free Estimate!

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