Fort Myers asphalt resurfacing is a lesser-known but highly impactful service that can transform your pavement. If your asphalt paving is a good candidate for resurfacing, you can give it a like-new look at only a fraction of the cost of repaving. Best of all, it addresses recurring damage, signs of aging, and other defects while extending your pavement’s lifespan.
But what makes asphalt resurfacing different from standard repairs, and how do you know you need it? Read on to learn more from The Surface Masters, one of the most trusted asphalt resurfacing companies in Fort Myers.
How Does Fort Myers Asphalt Resurfacing Work?
Resurfacing involves removing upper layers of pavement to make room for a new asphalt overlay. Every project is unique, but asphalt resurfacing contractors typically remove up to three inches of pavement off the top. They do this using asphalt milling machines that can precisely pulverize the material to a specific depth.
Once teams remove and recycle that old asphalt, they’ll apply a primer to ensure a tight bond with the asphalt overlay. Asphalt overlay companies will then lay and compact new material, giving your pavement a fresh new look without the time, expense, and stress of complete reconstruction.
Is Resurfacing and a New Asphalt Overlay Appropriate for All Damaged Pavement?
The thought of hiring asphalt overlay companies to bring your old, damaged pavement back to life is appealing. However, it’s not always the right choice.
Some projects benefit more from typical repairs, such as patching and crack sealing, than from full-blown asphalt milling and resurfacing. Meanwhile, others may not be a candidate for resurfacing at all, forcing property owners or managers to go straight to resurfacing.
The best thing you can do is request asphalt resurfacing contractors to perform an on-site inspection. The best asphalt resurfacing companies will assess your pavement’s condition and work with you to determine whether resurfacing is the correct move.
When Are Standard Repairs a Better Choice Than Asphalt Milling and Resurfacing?
Despite the appeal of asphalt resurfacing, most instances of damage would fare better with general repairs. Resurfacing, while more cost-effective and quicker than reconstruction, is still a sizable investment that requires some downtime for your property. Therefore, it’s always wise to consider basic repairs first.
Typically, contractors will suggest repairs when the issue is confined and easy to manage. They may also guide you towards asphalt repairs if your pavement is relatively new and doesn’t have enough deterioration to warrant resurfacing.
Can Asphalt Pavement Be Too Damaged for Fort Myers Asphalt Resurfacing?
On the opposite side of the spectrum, there are paved surfaces that just aren’t good candidates for Fort Myers asphalt resurfacing. The unique thing about asphalt resurfacing is that it reuses your existing foundation. During the asphalt milling process, teams pulverize the material to a specific depth while leaving the foundation intact. The asphalt overlay then sits on top of it.
If your pavement’s foundation is severely damaged, resurfacing isn’t the best option. Minor issues are fine, and contractors can perform some foundation repairs when necessary. However, substantial structural integrity issues require reconstruction and repaving, not resurfacing.
Asphalt resurfacing contractors may also deem this surface unviable based on your pavement’s age. Surfaces that are over 20 years old already have significant degradation and are approaching the end of their lifespan. In those cases, reconstruction may be a better move for long-term reliability.
When Do Asphalt Resurfacing Companies Recommend This Service?
Asphalt overlay companies may recommend resurfacing if you have more extensive or recurring damage. Frequent cracking, especially alligator cracking, can benefit from resurfacing. Contractors also recommend this service for drainage problems, severe surface raveling, rutting, numerous sunken areas, and other similar issues.
Damage must be limited to no more than about 30 percent of your pavement’s surface area. As mentioned earlier, your pavement’s foundation must also be in relatively good condition.
Need help deciding whether to seek repairs or resurfacing? Reach out to The Surface Masters. We’re experts in asphalt paving, repair, and maintenance. We can perform a comprehensive inspection to determine whether your pavement is a good candidate for resurfacing or an asphalt overlay. We’ll also work with you to determine if it’s the right move for your budget, immediate needs, and long-term goals.
At The Surface Masters, we’re proud to offer a wide range of services to meet all your asphalt needs in Fort Myers and the surrounding areas. These include new asphalt paving, repairs, crack sealing, sealcoating, pavement markings, milling and reclamation, concrete curbing, and more. Let’s talk shop! Call The Surface Masters at (239) 834-7259, email Info@TheSurfaceMasters.com, or use our online form to get in touch and receive your free project quote.
