Commercial interests don’t have a ton of materials to choose from when it comes to paving surfaces on their properties, but asphalt is generally considered the best option for a number of reasons, not least of which is the strength and durability it brings to the table. Here are just a few interesting facts every business owner should know when considering asphalt paving.
1. Asphalt is green
Obviously, asphalt is not green in color, but it is extremely eco-friendly, as paving surfaces go. In fact, it is the single most recycled product in the U.S., with about 99% of asphalt pavements getting recycled, and much of that going to form new pavement. This saves American taxpayers an estimated $300 million annually. If you own and operate an eco-conscious commercial concern, asphalt is definitely up your alley.
2. Asphalt can be porous
This might sound counterintuitive. Why would you want your pavement to soak up water? Won’t that lead to damage? Actually, porous asphalt doesn’t absorb water, but rather allows it to pass through, helping with drainage in areas that might otherwise suffer from pooling water on surfaces.
3. Asphalt makes mummies
Throughout history, bitumen, which is the basis of modern asphalt, has been used for a variety of purposes, most often as a binder or waterproofing agent. It was also used in ancient Egypt as part of the enbalming process. Considering the longevity of mummified corpses, you can imagine the resiliency of asphalt surfaces.
4. Asphalt is a popular choice
If you have a parking lot that isn’t paved in asphalt, you’re in the minority. It turns out that about 90% of parking lots in the U.S. rely on smooth, durable asphalt as their primary surface, making it one of the most popular materials used by businesses.
5. Asphalt is long-lasting and easy to preserve
You might be surprised to learn that asphalt is extremely slow to deteriorate. In fact, within the 20-25-year life span generally attributed to asphalt, you will only see about a 40% decline in condition within 75% of its usable life. This means that you could go 15 plus years with relatively little change in condition.
That said, you’re going to get a lot more use and enjoyment from asphalt surfaces with proper upkeep, and considering the additional wear and tear commercial asphalt might experience, proper maintenance and repair is a must. Luckily, this is easily accomplished by setting up a schedule for regular professional maintenance.
