What is pavement preservation?
Traditionally, pavement preservation consists of patching, crackfilling, and sealcoating.
Why is pavement preservation so much more prevalent today than in years past?
In the last twenty years, the price of asphalt has risen substantially while the quality of the material has been reduced.
Why preserve pavement?
Preserving existing pavement versus allowing a natural deterioration and subsequent asphalt overlay or replacement is extremely cost-effective. The Michigan Department of Transportation says the State saves $10 for every dollar spent on pavement preservation. Most studies claim savings of at least $3 per dollar spent on preservation.
Why crackfill?
Eventually, all asphalt pavements will crack. If these cracks are left unfilled, rainwater will find its way through these cracks and into the ground below. In our climate in the Northeast, this causes pavement failure due to the many freeze-thaw cycles and corresponding expansion and contraction of the ground below. Not only that but in inordinate amount of moisture in the ground causes a soft spot under the pavement. This soft spot allows the asphalt to flex under traffic and the cracking grows (alligatoring).
Why sealcoat?
Sealcoating prevents oxidation of asphalt, reduces the loss rate of asphalt "fines", reduces water penetration, facilitates snow removal, expedites cleaning, and beautifies.
Airport Striping is the Twin Tier's largest pavement preservation contractor.
