New Blacktop One-Sentence Description After the area is first prepared, blacktop is applied with a paver (2 layers for New Blacktop) and compacted with a roller. Applications When referring to new blacktop, we mean any blacktop that is installed over any material or surface other than blacktop. Installation of blacktop over existing blacktop, we refer to as a blacktop Overlay. Blacktop is the premier surface for roads, driveways, parking lots, etc. Please note that you should not put concentrated loads (such as motorcycle kickstands and picnic tables, etc.) on blacktop, as they will leave indentations. Description First, the sub-base must be prepared, if needed. This consists of ensuring the proper material is selected and applied based on the estimated traffic load - a more substantial sub-base is needed for heavier truck traffic than one that will only be supporting automobiles, for example. The sub-base must also be compacted sufficiently to ensure a long life expectancy of the application. Next, a layer of bituminous concrete base course (we’ll just call it BCBC) is applied at a uniform thickness, usually with a paver. The BCBC is then compacted using a roller. The thickness of the BCBC applied, like the sub-base, will vary based on estimated traffic load. For most applications, we recommend a minimum thickness of 2-1/2 inches of BCBC, as measured after compaction. Once the BCBC is sufficiently cool, a layer of bituminous concrete wearing course (we’ll call this ID-2 Wearing or “G-Top”) is applied, again usually with a paver. This layer is also compacted using a roller. For most applications, we recommend a minimum thickness of 1-1/2 to 2 inches of ID-2 Wearing, as measured after compaction. Relative Cost Comparison Blacktop is the most expensive product we supply - mainly due to the much higher material costs, and increased labor and equipment time costs associated with applying it. It is, however, the longest lasting and the least expensive to maintain -- see our Sealcoating section for further information on maintenance of blacktop. Blacktop is approximately 50-60% more expensive than another product of ours, a Surface Treatment, yet lasts 2 to 3 times longer (don’t forget the lower maintenance cost). Properly maintained, an application of blacktop may last from 15-20 years, based on traffic, existing sub-base, and weather conditions. Miscellaneous To prolong the life of your New Blacktop, don’t turn your vehicle’s steering wheel while sitting in place, as this will scuff the finish. Also, heavy objects that exert a lot of force on a small area (such as motorcycle kickstands and picnic table legs) should not be let sit directly on any blacktop, as they will indent and/or sink down into it - try placing a small block of wood underneath a kickstand, picnic table legs, etc.
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