asphalt paving faqs

Asphalt Paving FAQs

Table of Contents

Why should I consider asphalt pavement for the area around my home?

The condition of the driveway or parking lot says a lot about you to your customers. When it is well-paved and free of cracks and potholes, it says that you care about appearances and their vehicles. You’re focused on the safety of your customers and want to protect them from damages while they are visiting your business.

Historically, asphalt is proven to be an excellent paving material. When related to cost, it has performance levels equal to more expensive materials.

nvn paving driveway
NVN Paving set the standard for paving excellence in NJ

Why must I use NVN Paving in NJ to pave the parking lot or driveway?

NVN Paving in NJ manufactures the products it uses. Plus, it has been in the paving industry for many decades. The equipment we use is state-of-the-art, which means it’s got the latest technological advancements. We’re staffed by trained and experienced asphalt paving crews, as well. We know that paving is necessary for roads, highways, commercial properties, streets, and residential needs.

asphalt longevity
Once paved, asphalt can last for several decades

How long can a new asphalt parking lot or driveway last?

If the asphalt parking lot or driveway is installed correctly with appropriate materials, you can expect your new surface to last 30 years or longer. If you receive proper maintenance (which we also provide), the project could last 50 years.

driveway repairs
Basic repairs such as smoothening, are available for your driveway

Can my current driveway be repaired?

Asphalt is one of the best paving surfaces because it can be repaired quickly. You’ve got many options available to you. Talking with an NVN Paving team member is best to see what might be best for your needs. Generally, it would be best to speak with a professional and not make such repairs alone.

Do you provide a warranty on the work you do?

All of our work is under warranty for a full 12 months from the completion date.

What’s an overlay? Do I need one?

In certain situations, putting a new layer of asphalt over the old one is possible. However, you must have the site inspected by a qualified paving professional, as only they can make such a determination.

Unfortunately, overlays are usually done on a pavement surface that should be replaced or repaired. NVN Paving only performs an overlay when we’re sure this is the most suitable choice. That way, the durability and integrity of the surface aren’t compromised.

parking lot asphalt paving
Paving parking lots takes time and many stages are involved

What’s your typical procedure for installing a new parking lot or driveway?

Our crew can prepare a base to ensure the subgrade drains correctly. We build this based on the specific specifications for appropriately supporting the load the pavement will take over time.

Now, a second crew comes in with the materials and paving equipment needed for the job. We can place the asphalt in up to three layers. This is based on your budget and our technician’s recommendations. Of course, we talk to you about everything as it happens and before work is completed. That way, you know what will happen and can plan accordingly.

asphalt-material
Your asphalt can be derived from various materials, depending on the scope of your project

Which asphalt type is going to be used for this project?

The product type used is going to depend on a variety of factors. Each paving project we take on is unique and has different requirements. The asphalt paving professional that arrives at your door is qualified to make this decision.

Of course, an inspection is required of your site. This helps the asphalt paving professional determine the right match for the intended usage of the site. In many commercial and municipal areas, the engineering firm or architect is the one who decides on the right product. Then, we formulate and create it to match those specifications.

Where and when should hot- vs. cold-mix asphalt be used?

Usually, the cold mix is used in those off-season situations or whenever a quick fix is required. However, the hot mixture is primarily used in the prime season.

old asphalt
We never let asphalt go to waste! Your old driveway will be removed and recycled for future projects

What happens to the old asphalt?

We take the old asphalt back to our yard and then recycle it at our facility. At one time, we used old asphalt to build those temporary roadways through landfill sites. The recycled asphalt and any crushed reclaim are now used in many formulations and amounts. Plus, it’s found in a variety of asphalt mixes that NVN Paving utilizes.

Municipal projects require that a specific percentage of the asphalt be made from recycled materials. When reclaimed asphalt is added to a custom mix, it improves the entire batch. This enhances performance and extends longevity.

Can you take my old asphalt shingles?

At NVN Paving, we take residential and commercial asphalt shingles that have gone through their lifespan. Asphalt shingles can be used in a variety of mixes that we create. Again, retail and municipality projects require recycled asphalt, including asphalt shingles, to be included in the mix.

moisture on driveway
Rainwater will pool up your driveway without proper drainage

Is there a difference between porous and permeable asphalt?

Yes, there is a difference between the two. Porous asphalt ensures that water passes through it to the gravel base. However, permeable pavement offers a method to help reduce runoff over various impervious surfaces. Therefore, you can quickly treat and manage stormwater at the site while maintaining a usable area.

How do you maintain the asphalt over time?

It’s best to have a professional come to your site to handle asphalt maintenance. While DIY products are on the market, they’re not up to our standards. Asphalt paving professionals have the skill to apply the right products at the right time. If you misuse them, the repair solution or the ‘curing’ aspect could cause more damage.

snow plowing
New Jersey gets more than a little snowy at winter!!

Do you offer salting, snow plowing, and ice control services?

NVN Paving does offer winter services, though we focus primarily on large commercial sites. We offer 24-hour dispatch services and on-call supervisors to handle winter service needs quickly. NVN Paving can deliver salt, sand, and other mixtures whenever required. Plus, we sell small and bulk quantities of de-icer products.

How can I maintain the asphalt so that it looks great?

There are many things you can do. Treat gas and oil spills quickly, kill weeds around the edges, and fill open cracks. When the pavement is sealed periodically, it extends its life.

parking lot paving preparation
Sounds like a no-brainer but make sure your parking lot is devoid of any actual cars prior to paving!

What can I do before the parking lot or driveway is seal-coated?

Remove the vehicles from the driveway and leave your garage door open.

What should I do when the paving technician arrives to pave?

We require full access to your site, and you’ve got to leave the garage door open. We will call Digger’s Hotline before we begin the project.

wait for asphalt to set
Asphalt doesn’t take long to set – approximately 24 hours after completion

Should I do anything after the work’s completed?

We don’t require anything specific, though you should wait about 24 hours before you drive on the surface. This can be longer in hot weather. Make sure you’ve got a preventative maintenance plan in place.

How long do I need to stay off my new asphalt?

We recommend 24 hours, though it could take two days in warm weather.

repairs in winter
New Jersey roads can be impenetrable in winter but light repair work can still be made.

Can asphalt repairs be done in winter?

We can do some asphalt repair work in the winter months, but these are often temporary until we can do it right in the summer.

What’s the appearance of the new asphalt when you’re done?

The surface is going to look black when it’s new. You may see roller marks, but with time and use, it all blends.