FAQ

When your property is on the line, of course you want the best! That’s why at Rafferty Paving, we’re here to deliver top-quality services that Kerrville residents can count on. It’s not just our installation and coating services that we offer though — you can also rely on us to share our knowledge about paving, helping you achieve peace of mind.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of Asphalt Paving?

Once your asphalt paving contractors have finished the job, you should be left with a surface that lasts for years — sometimes for close to three decades!

Oftentimes, your asphalt pavement will achieve a lifespan of over ten years, but the exact length of time depends on several factors, which include the following:

• Materials and installation — Choose a paving company you trust because improper installation techniques and subpar materials can significantly reduce the pavement’s lifespan.
• Usage patterns — The more frequently cars drive across your asphalt, the more likely damage is to occur.
• Maintenance habits — Regular maintenance, such as seal coating, crack filling and timely repairs, is crucial to extending the life of your asphalt surface. Neglecting these practices can lead to accelerated wear and tear, reducing the overall lifespan of your pavement.

At Rafferty Paving, we’re committed to providing top-notch service and guidance to help you achieve long-lasting results. Trust us to provide a durable and reliable asphalt surface for your property.

What Is The Reason For An Asphalt Overlay?

An asphalt overlay is applied to restore the surface quality and extend the life of an existing pavement. This process involves adding a new layer of asphalt over the old pavement, which helps to address surface imperfections, minor cracks and uneven areas.

The overlay provides a renewed, smooth driving surface without complete pavement removal and replacement. It’s a cost-effective solution that enhances the durability and appearance of the road, ensuring a safer and more pleasant driving experience.

How Do You Prepare A Surface For Pavement Overlay?

While professional contractors handle most of the preparation for an asphalt overlay, homeowners can take a few steps to ensure the process goes smoothly. First, clear the area of any obstacles — such as vehicles, outdoor furniture or debris — to give the contractors full access to the surface.

Address vegetation growing near or through the existing pavement. Clearing weeds and grass is crucial because they can create gaps and weak spots in the new overlay, compromising the structural integrity of the pavement. Vegetation can also interfere with the adhesion of the new asphalt layer, leading to premature cracking and deterioration.

Additionally, communicate with your contractor about any specific concerns or issues with the existing surface — such as areas of significant damage or drainage problems. By taking these steps, homeowners can help facilitate a more efficient and effective overlay process for their Kerrville property.

Does Chip Sealing Increase The Life Of The Road?

Yes, chip sealing significantly increases the life of the road. This process starts with applying a layer of liquid asphalt, which is then covered with aggregate chips. The chips are then pressed into the asphalt to create a durable, skid-resistant surface.

Chip sealing protects the underlying pavement from water damage, UV rays and wear and tear — effectively extending the lifespan of your road by several years.

What Do You Coat Asphalt With?

Asphalt is typically coated with a seal coat, which is a protective layer applied to the surface. The coating process helps protect the asphalt from oxidation, water penetration and the damaging effects of UV rays. It also restores the asphalt’s original appearance, providing a smooth and attractive finish that prolongs the life of the pavement.