Before undergoing an asphalt reconstruction or resurfacing project, you might have a lot of questions. We pride ourselves on being knowledgeable about civil construction, asphalt and concrete paving. Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you be prepared for your next construction project.
- What is the difference between reconstruction and resurfacing? Reconstruction is completely redoing the asphalt pavement. This requires installing a new subgrade asphalt base and a top pavement overlay. Resurfacing is a restoration mechanism, it does not require a new base layer. Rather, the process installs a new top layer of asphalt. Sometimes, resurfacing alone, without milling is not possible. There may be other features, such as curbs, sidewalks, and drainage structures, that would prevent the addition of asphalt over the existing surface course. In this case milling would be required. If your surface does not have curbs and sidewalks, but the drainage structures are able to be raised or reset to the grade of the new asphalt overlay, asphalt resurfacing may be possible.
- How do you know when a surface needs to be reconstructed or resurfaced? Asphalt contractors are able to determine when pavement needs to be reconstructed when they see alligator cracks. It is actually more cost-effective to do a reconstruction. Pavement is restorable and can undergo resurfacing when the base layer is in good condition.
- What is the expected lifespan of a surface that has been reconstructed vs. resurfaced? This really depends on a few things – weather, winter conditions, the weight of trucks using the surface, the thickness of the new layers, condition of the surface before construction, and how well it is taken care of post-construction. With that being said, reconstructed surfaces are expected to last anywhere from 15 to 25 years. Resurfacing surfaces can last 8 to 15 years.
Crisdel Group, Inc. has served the New York-New Jersey-Pennsylvania metropolitan area for more than 45 years. Today, Crisdel’s operations can accommodate all client needs and has recently expanded into Florida. Even though our roots are dug deep in asphalt paving, we can assist clients in all aspects of site development and maintenance as we self-perform most civil and heavy construction requirements.
We have met industry qualifications and have been classified by the Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey Departments of Transportation. Please contact us today to get started on your next construction project.