Asphalt paving provides an efficient solution for driveways, parking lots, or roadways that is cost-effective, durable, and environmentally friendly. Because it can cost less than other quality materials, it is one of the top considerations for property owners, particularly those wanting to give some balance between quality and affordability. Mark Buckland describes how asphalt provides savings even after the initial installation, with reduced maintenance costs and long-lasting durability.
The impact of temperature changes or heavy use has less negative effect on the asphalt surface for continued use, and this allows customers to benefit from fewer repairs and replacements. Additionally, asphalt can be recycled, which greatly impacts its sustainability, being a very economical option. Beyond its sustainability and cost benefits, asphalt that is maintained creates solid curb appeal for properties and even adds value to the overall market value.
Affordable Installation and Quick Turnaround
While payment for asphalt paving is more affordable than concrete installation, asphalt is often selected by property owners for other reasons, especially if they are more focused on affordability/installation costs. Asphalt materials tend to cost less, as asphalt material and some other products tend to take less energy to create. The picture is simplified, as it’s easier to facilitate overall costs (because there are either fewer material requirements or labor components) to consider at least some affordable investment as part of a residential or commercial project.
The installation is also much quicker, allowing property owners to avoid lengthy construction delays. Asphalt can be installed and utilized in a short time frame, enabling businesses to be up and running and homeowners to use their driveways that much sooner. This quick turnaround saves money on labor, and it minimizes inconveniences, both of which can be important to businesses that rely on easy access. Moreover, even in cold-weather climates, asphalt pavement works because it sets up quickly, which eliminates potential delays caused by inclement weather and frigid temperatures.
Additionally, asphalt’s quick downtime minimizes businesses losing potential revenue when waiting for driveway or parking access for customers. Compared to other paving materials that need to cure for a length of time, asphalt provides a practical and economical approach to your surface application.
Reduced Maintenance and Repair Costs
Asphalt is easy to maintain, making it an affordable option for property owners. If other materials need to be replaced at a high cost, asphalt simply needs to be patched up at a low cost. Furthermore, good maintenance, including seal coating every few years, will help to protect the installed surface and prevent it from deteriorating over time.
These minor repairs enhance the pavement’s longevity without necessitating large-scale reconstruction.
Another benefit is the capability to resurface asphalt instead of conducting a complete replacement. When the indications of aging are first noticed, an additional layer is placed back onto restore smoothness and durability at a portion of the cost of a complete replacement. Because of this quality, it is a viable option for residential and commercial properties seeking to reduce long-term costs. Resurfacing also provides an appealing presentation to asphalt placement by providing a maintained and professional appearance without the high cost of replacement.
Durability for Long-Term Cost Savings
Asphalt is flexible and allows it to flex under heavy traffic and varying weather conditions, with little damage to the pavement. Rigid materials are much less forgiving when stressed, as they are more likely to crack when subjected to pressure. Asphalt, however, can act to accommodate temperature changes, consequently reducing structural failures.
Thus, the durability of asphalt means that repairs could be fewer, and the costs associated with maintenance will, in the long run, ultimately be less than that of a rigid surface. As mentioned before, flexibility also enables asphalt to expand and contract as needed, which can be a significant advantage in climate areas with temperature swings. Ultimately, this can protect the asphalt placement from premature failure.
If properly sealed and maintained, asphalt surfaces can last for a long time—often several decades. The durability of asphalt surfaces, especially in high-traffic areas like parking lots and driveways, precludes the need for frequent resurfacing or replacement, which can become a costly venture for properties. Periodic maintenance, assuring asphalt remains in good condition, helps to avoid relatively minor issues from becoming very expensive repairs.
Energy Efficiency and Vehicle Savings
A smooth asphalt surface promotes less rolling resistance, meaning vehicles use less energy to move, ultimately improving fuel efficiency as the distance is accumulated. A well-kept, smooth road and/or parking surface reduces wear on tires/suspension systems, resulting in lower vehicle maintenance costs. A few driver jolts (less vibration) caused by poor pavement conditions contribute to the overall lifespan of the vehicle.
The temperature gradient of asphalt (the dark color) provides energy savings in the winter months as well. Asphalt warms, or absorbs heat from the sun, more efficiently than lighter-colored surfaces, thus melting snow and ice faster. This natural warm effect allows property owners to reduce the usage of de-icing chemicals, which ultimately lowers winter maintenance costs. Municipalities also benefit from this aspect due to the reduction in snow removal demand (saving labor/time/resources).
Sustainable and Economical Recycling
Asphalt is one of the most recyclable paving materials available and is less expensive to use in the long term. Old asphalt can be reclaimed for use in new projects, which can significantly reduce material costs. In addition to limiting waste, this process also results in the purchasing of less new raw material and is therefore an eco-friendly investment.
Reclaimed asphalt is just as durable and strong as newly manufactured material, providing quality surfaces while saving on costs. Because municipalities and businesses can save money while reaching a sustainability goal, many have tested using reclaimed asphalt.
Using recycled materials can also qualify owners for tax credits or incentives (in addition to being good for the environment).
Improved Property Value and Curb Appeal
A quality, maintained asphalt surface elevates the aesthetics of a property and adds to the appearance of a professional, polished space. Well-paved areas (driveways for homes or parking lots for commercial properties) improve the first impression of any area or space. Visitors and potential buyers are more likely to feel that a well-paved area indicates the owner has properly maintained the property.
A surface that is not taken care of or is damaged can create the impression that the property is not maintained well, which could result in buyers or tenants staying away.
The like is said: a surface that lasts long, in addition to the aesthetic value, brings a corresponding value by lowering the financial concern of maintenance and repairs in the future. Buyers and tenants usually include long-term costs in their evaluation of the property, and a good-quality asphalt pavement gives them a feeling of not having to worry about the resurfacing expenses in the near future. The real estate agents bring to the forefront the driveways and parking places that have been paved well as a point of selling, which makes asphalt an asset for the property owner who is looking to increase the market value.
Also Read: Negative Gearing, Depreciation, and Tax Strategy: The Accountant’s Guide to Property
