Reasons to Expand Your Driveway

Is your driveway currently meeting the needs of your household? If you find yourself with too little room for your liking, expanding your driveway is always an option. Here are four common reasons that homeowners may expand their driveway.

New Drivers in the Household

Do you have a teenager that just became old enough to drive? Or maybe you got a new roommate that is forced to park in the street? Whatever your situation may be, it is not uncommon for households to welcome in a new driver at some point – welcome them with a bigger driveway.

Parking Flexibility

If you have a driveway that is only wide enough for one vehicle, parking can quickly become a hassle. Cars must constantly be reshuffled, and people need to drop everything they are doing to move their cars so the person at the very front can leave. If you want more parking flexibility, widening your driveway is a great option.

Basketball Hoop Addition

Take a drive down any residential suburban street and you will see plenty of basketball hoops installed in people's driveways. If you have an up-and-coming sports star in your family, or just want a place to play the occasional game of “HORSE”, why not extend your driveway and add a basketball hoop?

RV Acquisition

For the free-spirited, cross-country adventurer in you, recreational vehicles provide a way to explore the great outdoors in style and comfort. The only problem is: where are you going to keep it? RVs take up a lot of room, so much so that most people can't fit one in their driveway in addition to their everyday cars. A driveway expansion can quickly take care of this problem.

So what are you waiting for? No matter what your reason is, a bigger, better driveway is just a phone call away with the paving experts at Roccie's Asphalt. We have offered high-quality paving jobs to homeowners in New York and Connecticut for almost 60 years! Call us today for a free quote at 888-88-ROCCIES.

Parking Lot Preventative Maintenance Tips

As a property manager, your asphalt parking lot probably isn't at the top of your priority list, but neglecting it will only cost you money further down the road. Properly maintaining your parking lot will not only save you money on future repair work, but a visually-appealing blacktop will also leave a strong first impression on your potential customers.

Follow these preventative maintenance tips to preserve your asphalt parking lot for as long as possible:

• Clean your parking lot every month. Washing away dirt, leaves, and other debris will help prevent staining and uneven fading.

• Be on the lookout for oil stains. If you do see one, clean it immediately using dish soap and water. If left to sit, the oil can begin to break down the surface of the asphalt.

• If you notice “birdbath” areas in your parking lot or other spots with pooling water, look into installing a drainage solution. Water is one of asphalt's biggest enemies, and will eventually lead to cracks and potholes down the road.

• All cracks should be professionally sealed as soon as possible. Cracks are usually caused by water penetrating the surface, freezing, and expanding. Although a small crack may not look like it deserves your attention now, it will continue to expand and cause more problems if it isn't sealed.

• Sealcoat your parking lot every 3-5 years. In addition to adding a protective layer to the top of the asphalt surface and effectively sealing small cracks, a fresh sealcoat will also make your parking lot look like new. A good sealcoating routine can double the lifespan of your parking lot.

• Always be sure to adhere to local regulations in regards to parking lot size, number and size of parking spaces, handicapped parking, etc.

Do you need a hand getting your asphalt parking lot in tip-top shape? The asphalt experts at Roccie's Paving are here to help! For almost 60 years, property owners and managers have depended on us to provide high-quality asphalt paving services for a reasonable rate. We serve Fairfield County CT and Westchester County NY, call us today for a free quote at 888-88-ROCCIES.

Why Is Your Driveway Cracking?

Do you remember what your asphalt driveway looked like when it was freshly paved? The perfectly smooth surface and deep black color made your home stand out, but chances are it doesn't look like that anymore.

If you don't properly maintain your asphalt driveway over the years, that jet black finish will fade to a dull gray, and the formerly smooth surface will start to resemble alligator skin. If this is what is happening to you, here are some potential reasons as to why your asphalt driveway is cracking.

Poorly Installed Base

The quality of your driveway is only as good as the paving company who installs it, which is why it is important to deal with an experienced contractor. Improper installation is the leading cause of driveway cracks, usually because the base was installed using sand or dirt instead of crushed stone.

Cold Weather

The freeze-thaw cycles of colder climates really take their toll on asphalt driveways. This happens when the water from melting snow or ice penetrates the surface of your driveway, making its way to the base. When the temperature drops, this water freezes and expands, causing cracks to form deep down. As more water enters, freezes, and expands, these cracks continue to grow until they eventually come to the surface.

Tree Roots

When paving your driveway, you should pay close attention to surrounding trees – especially large ones. Much like the freeze-thaw cycle, tree roots can put a substantial amount of pressure on your asphalt driveway from underneath. You can install a root barrier system along the edges of your driveway during installation, but be aware that these can compromise the stability of the trees.

Excessive Weight

Asphalt is a very strong material, but it is not invincible. Just like pressure from below can cause cracking, so can pressure from above. Don't park commercial vehicles on your driveway, and try not to park close to the edge, where the foundation is its weakest.

Do you need help getting the cracks out of your driveway? If you live in Fairfield County CT or Westchester County NY, call Roccie's Asphalt for a free quote at 888-88-ROCCIES. One of our trained specialists will thoroughly inspect your driveway to determine the cause and severity of the cracks, and will work with you to find the solution that best meets your needs.

How to Plan Your Parking Lot Layout

If you own a large business or shopping center, a pristine parking lot should be near the top of your priority list. You may think a customer's first impression comes when they step foot in your store, but their opinion starts to develop from the moment they turn into your parking lot.

If your parking lot is small, crowded, and ridden with cracks and potholes, it could be turning customers away before they even make it to your store. On the other hand, a freshly-paved parking lot with plenty of space and available spots has the opposite affect. We have already discussed what attracts people to a parking lot, and if you are planning on repaving yours, you will need to a plan.

Step One: Determine how much space you have to work with.

The first step in laying out your parking lot is determining how much space is available. If you are simply repaving your lot, you should already know this information, but if you are purchasing a new property, you might have some room to work with. After you have calculated your total square footage available for paving, you can move on to the next step.

Step Two: Determine a layout.

Your parking lot layout will be contingent on local zoning regulations as well as the size and location of the store relative to your property. Always check to make sure you aren't violating any town laws when planning commercial projects. Once everything is squared away from a legal standpoint, you will design your parking lot around your store. If the store is centered on the piece of land, you could designate parking all around the building, whereas if it is on an edge, you have to put everything in front of it, which would lead to longer walks for your customers.

Step Three: Plan your parking spaces.

The last step is to plot out your parking spaces. Ideally, you should be able to provide enough spaces to accommodate more customers than you will ever have at your store at one time, but there could be space limitations. If you are tight for room, arranging your parking spots correctly could help you maximize the space you do have.

According to this report from Planning.org, there are four main ways to lay out your parking spots:

It is recommended to designate about 300 square feet of space per car; a 9'x18' space for the car to park and the remaining ~140 square feet of space should be factored into aisles, landscaping, entrances, and exits. Cars are seven feet wide, so a space that is nine feet wide provides enough room to comfortably park. If you try to save space by making your spots narrower, it will encourage customers to park over the divider, taking up two spots and costing you room instead of saving it.

Do you need an extra hand in designing and paving your new parking lot? Call the experts at Roccie's Asphalt! Connecticut and New York business owners and property managers have trusted us with their commercial paving projects for 60 years. Call us for a free quote today at 888-88-ROCCIES.

4 Signs of a Reputable Paving Contractor

Buyer beware: if you need to repave your driveway, you should take extreme caution when choosing an asphalt contractor. Unfortunately, scammers and con artists run rampant in the paving industry, you need to protect yourself. For every reputable contractor who will do a good job, there is a shady businessman trying to take your money.

If you are having trouble determining if a paving contractor is legitimate or deceitful, look for these four signs.

They are accredited by the Better Business Bureau.

The Better Business Bureau should be the first resource you turn to when you are trying to find out whether a business is credible. For over 100 years, the BBB has helped consumers find reputable companies in their area – trust them to steer you in the right direction.

The are fully licensed & insured.

A paving contractor should be fully licensed to work in their respective state and should carry general liability insurance. Ask prospective contractors to show you proof of these two things, if they make an excuse or are unable to provide you with documentation, quickly move on and look for another company.

They provide a written contract.

When it comes to a big investment such as asphalt paving, you will want all information to be provided in the form of a written contract. This includes the start date, end date, work to be done, price, and materials used. If a contractor simply writes a price on the back of a business card or won't make anything other than a verbal commitment, consider this a red flag.

References & past projects.

Any paving contractor who has been in business for a while would be more than happy to provide you with a list of references or show you a portfolio of their work. Better yet, they should be able to take you around town and show you some of their past projects in person.

If you are looking for a reputable paving contractor in Fairfield County, CT or Westchester County, NY look no further than Roccie's Asphalt! We are A+ accredited by the Better Business Bureau and fully licensed and insured in both Connecticut and New York. We have served thousands of happy customers over the past 60 years, check out some of our work in our online showcase! Click here to visit our website or call us for a free quote at 888-88-ROCCIES.

Fall Maintenance Tips for Your Asphalt Driveway

The weather is cooling down, football season has kicked off, and the coffee shop around the corner is now serving its seasonal pumpkin lattes. While autumn doesn't officially start for another week or so, it will be here before you know it.

Be prepared this fall and use these tips to keep your asphalt driveway strong and robust for another cold season.

If you haven't sealcoated in 2+ years, do it now.

Winter is the most damaging season for asphalt driveways. If you live in a cold climate, melted snow and ice can penetrate your driveways surface and get into the base. When this water re-freezes, it expands, causing structural damage to the foundation of your driveway. Taking the time to sealcoat during the fall will help prevent winter damage.

Keep your driveway clear of leaves and other debris.

It is important to keep your driveway clear of dirt, grass clippings, and other lawn debris year-round, but during the fall, the leaves present an added challenge. Use a push broom or a leaf blower to keep fallen leaves off of your driveway, they will cause uneven fading from the sun.

Take care of your drainage.

Hurricane season runs through November 30 on the Atlantic Coast, so there is a very real possibility that you will experience heavy rain and thunderstorms within the upcoming months. As mentioned in this blog, water is one of asphalts three biggest enemies, so you will want to make sure to have a proper driveway drainage system in place to keep water flowing away from your driveway.

Do you need an extra hand preparing your driveway for fall and winter? If you live in Fairfield County, CT or Westchester County, NY look no further than Roccie's Paving! We offer a full suite of services for your asphalt driveway such as sealcoating, repaving, and drainage system installation. Visit our website for more information or give us a call for a free quote at 888-88-ROCCIES.

Common Asphalt Driveway Drainage Solutions

If you are experiencing pooling water on your asphalt driveway or parking lot, it is more than just an inconvenience. Standing water can not only freeze during the winter and create a safety hazard, it can also breakdown the asphalt surface and cause it to prematurely deteriorate.

There are many reasons that you could be experiencing drainage problems. It could be due to an uneven slope in your driveway, cracks and potholes collecting water, or simply the lack of an existing drainage system.

Luckily, no matter what the reason for your drainage problems, a solution exists to fix it! There are many drainage solutions for your asphalt driveway or parking lot, but in this article we will be taking a look at three of the most popular options, which are:

• Porous asphalt. Even though asphalt is one of the greenest materials on the planet, one thing it was criticized for was not taking water run-off into account. That is why porous asphalt was developed. Porous asphalt is just what it sounds like; it has small openings which allow water to naturally run through it and drain into the ground.

• Trench Drains. Trench drains are essentially gutters installed into your driveway or parking lot. You have probably seen them before: they are long, narrow drains with metal grating that run the width of your driveway. Usually, they are placed in front of the garage to prevent flooding, but they are also common along the edge of your foundation if you frequently suffer from basement floods.

• Relocation or Resurfacing. Sometimes, poor landscape design makes driveway drainage problems inevitable. If your driveway sits on a low-lying piece of land, it is doomed to collect water. In this case, it may be worth your while to consider relocating your driveway to the other side of your yard, or resurfacing it to alter the slope and create a runoff into the street.

If you are experiencing drainage problems with your Connecticut or New York driveway, these are just a few solutions you can take to correct the issue. If you live in Fairfield County, CT or Westchester County, NY, call the drainage experts at Roccie's Asphalt to discuss your options. Consultation is free, and we will even give you an up-front estimate! Call us today at 1-888-88-ROCCIES.

What Sealcoating Will and Will Not Do

Sealcoating is essential for the longevity of any asphalt surface, and it offers many benefits when done correctly. While it is a staple of every asphalt maintenance routine, it has a specific purpose and is not a magical cure for all of your problems. Many paving contractors will oversell sealcoating just to get your money, avoid getting ripped off and read below to understand exactly what you will and will not get from sealcoating your asphalt surface.

A professionally-applied sealcoat WILL:

• Help extend the lifespan of your driveway or parking lot. Sealcoating adds a protective layer to the top of your pavement to help protect it from premature deterioration due to the sun, water, and oil spills.
• Waterproof the surface. This prevents water from penetrating your driveway and freezing underground – this is what causes cracks and potholes.
• Enhance the appearance. If your pavement has faded, a fresh sealcoat will restore the deep black finish of a new driveway. The darker color will also help snow and ice melt faster because it retains more of the sun's heat.
• Make cleaning easier. Sealcoating creates a smooth surface which allows dirt and other debris to be easily swept or hosed off.

Sealcoating WILL NOT:

• Reverse damage. If your asphalt surface is riddled with cracks and potholes, sealcoating will not restore it to a smooth condition – your only choice at this point is to repave.
• Level your driveway. If your driveway is sloped or uneven, sealcoating will not help.
• Fix drainage problems. In fact, it may make your existing drainage problems worse because it waterproofs the surface. If you are experiencing the pooling of water on your driveway, contact a professional paving contractor to explore your options.

Interested in learning the right way to solve your asphalt problems? Give the paving experts at Roccie's Asphalt a call; we will work with you to identify the root cause of your problems and offer a free estimate for the cost of fixing them. We serve Fairfield County, CT and Westchester County, NY so give us a call today at 1-888-88-ROCCIES.

Common Asphalt Problems and How to Fix Them

 

Asphalt driveways are a common choice among homeowners for a good reason; they are an economical option and they are extremely durable. However, just like any other surface, they are susceptible to certain problems.

Here are the three most common issues you will come across with asphalt driveways, as well as what you can do to fix them.


Problem: Cracks & Potholes
No crack is too small to cause some serious damage to your asphalt driveway. Even the seemingly harmless cracks can allow for weed growth or grow into bigger cracks. During the winter, water can infiltrate these cracks and freeze, causing new cracks to form and existing cracks to grow.

Solution: Patch or Repave
Depending on the size of the cracks in your driveway, there are three ways you can handle it. Very small ones may need to be routered out to allow enough crack filling material to have an effect. Medium-sized cracks can be taken care of with some crack filler; you can find this at your local hardware store. Unfortunately, if your driveway is riddled with deep, wide cracks, the best solution is to get it repaved.


Problem: Discoloration & Fading
Over the years, the deep black finish of your asphalt driveway will eventually turn into a grayish color. This is due to the constant exposure to the sun; the UV rays in the sunlight break down the asphalt binder and accelerate the oxidation process.

Solution: Sealcoat
If you notice that your asphalt driveway is more gray than it is black, a sealcoat can restore its finish to new. Sealcoating is a relatively inexpensive and cost-effective way to protect your asphalt surface for years to come. You can hire a professional to do it, or it can be done as a weekend DIY project.


Problem: Pooling Water
If you notice water pooling in your driveway after every rainstorm, you should fix it sooner rather than later. Not only is stepping in puddles an inconvenience, but water is one of asphalt's biggest enemies. When it sits on your driveway, it can cause premature deterioration. Standing water also becomes a safety issue during the colder months, where it can freeze and create a slipping hazard.

Solution: Call a Professional
Pooling water can be caused by a variety of reasons: it could be due to the lack of an existing drainage system, an uneven slope, surface damage, or something else. In this case, it is best to call in a professional contractor and let them diagnose the issue.


Are you experiencing any of these problems with your asphalt driveway? If you live in Fairfield County, Connecticut or Westchester County, New York, call Roccie's Asphalt to get the job done right. With more than 50 years of experience, we will do whatever it takes to get your asphalt driveway looking like new again. Call us for a free quote at 888-88-ROCCIES.

Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways: Which is Better?

If you are considering installing a new driveway for your home, one of the biggest choices you will have to make is which material to use. The two most popular options, by far, are concrete and asphalt, which both over their own distinct advantages and disadvantages.

If you are debating between asphalt and concrete for your new driveway, here are some of the key differences to take into account:

Cost to Install
One of the biggest qualities people consider in a driveway installation is the price, and asphalt is the cheaper option by far. In some cases, an asphalt driveway can be less than half the price of concrete.

Appearance
The difference in appearance between these two materials is black and white – literally. Asphalt driveways look like an extension of the road, while concrete tends to have an off-white shade. Concrete is easier to customize with stamping and color tinting, but it is also more susceptible to stains.

Durability
Both materials are extremely durable, and can last well over 20 years if properly cared for.

Maintenance and Repairs
Experts recommend sealcoating asphalt driveways every 3-5 years in order to preserve their look and strength. Concrete driveways can also be sealed, but it is not as important as it is with asphalt. Although asphalt usually requires more work, repairs are cheaper and easier than they are with a concrete driveway.

Climate Considerations
Concrete tends to struggle in cold climates, where it is known to crack and suffer from frost heaving. Salt and other de-icers can also damage a concrete driveway. Asphalt, on the other hand, is susceptible to hot weather, where the surface can scuff when softened by the sun if it’s hot enough.

Want to learn more about the differences between concrete and asphalt? Check out this article from Angie's List.

When you take everything into account, you can see there is no clear winner; what is best for you depends on how you value certain aspects compared to others. Whichever material you choose, Roccie's Paving can professionally install it for your home or business. We have served Fairfield County CT and Westchester County NY for well over 50 years, and have satisfied thousands of residential, commercial, and municipal customers. Visit our website for more information or call us for a free quote at 888-88-ROCCIES.

Fun Facts About America's Interstate System

Since its creation in the 1950s, the interstate system has become an integral part of the United States, with millions of Americans using it every day on their commutes to and from work, school, and other daily activities. Hundreds of millions of miles are driven on American highways every year, but how much do we really know about them?

Take a look at some of these fun facts about the world's largest highway system:

• President Dwight D. Eisenhower passed the National Interstate and Defense Highways Act in 1956. It authorized 25 billion dollars for the construction of 41,000 miles worth of highways. At the time it was passed, it was the largest public works project in American history.
  
  
• Interstates which run East-West are given an even number (ex. I-90). North-South routes are given an odd number (ex. I-95).
  
  
• Interstate route numbers which are divisible by 5 are generally main freeways which carry traffic long distances. 
  
  
• The most-traveled portion of the interstate system is the 405 in Las Angeles, with almost 400,000 vehicles per day.
  
  
• The least-traveled portion of the interstate system is near the Canadian border in Maine, with approximately 1,880 vehicles per day.
  
  
• The longest East-West interstate route is I-90, which runs from Seattle, WA to Boston, MA, covering 3,085 miles.
  
  
• The longest North-South interstate route is I-95, which runs from Miami, FL to Houlton, ME and covers 1,892 miles.
  
  
• New York leads all states with the highest number of interstate routes, 28.
  
  
• I-95 crosses more states than any other interstate route: 16. I-90 is second with 13.
  
  
• All but four state capitals are directly connected to the Interstate system. Those not connected are Juneau, AK; Dover, DE; Jefferson City, MO; and Pierre, SD.
  
  
• The total length of all highways in the United States is roughly 47,856 miles, of which approximately 93% are surfaced with asphalt.

Looking for more facts about the American Highway System? Check out this fact sheet from the U.S. Federal Highway Administration.

Roccie's Asphalt has been in business since 1956; which happens to be the same year that Dwight Eisenhower passed the National Interstate and Defense Highways Act. For nearly 60 years, we have provided high-quality asphalt paving jobs for homeowners and commercial clients in Connecticut and New York. Whether you need a new driveway, parking lot, basketball court, or roadway, call Roccie's for a free quote at 1-888-88ROCCIES.

Upgrade Your School's Blacktop

July is almost over, and next month, schools all around Connecticut and New York will be opening their doors for the start of a new year. In order to leave a good impression on new and returning students, your facility should be in as good of shape as possible.

One of the first things that students and staff see when pulling in to the school is the parking lot; what is yours saying about you? If your facility's parking lot is riddled with cracks and potholes, it could be leaving a bad impression on your students, in addition to creating safety hazards.

If your school is located in Westchester County, NY or Fairfield County, CT, let Roccie's Asphalt resurface your blacktop surfaces before the start of the new year. For more than 50 years, we have provided high quality commercial and municipal paving jobs at an affordable rate.

Time is running out! In less than one month's time, your students will be coming back to school – make sure they come back to something worthwhile. Whether you need your parking lot resurfaced, more sidewalks installed, or extra tennis and basketball courts, look no further than Roccie's Asphalt for all of your paving needs! Visit our website for more information or give us a call at 888-88-ROCCIES.

How is Asphalt Made?

Asphalt pavement is everywhere – it accounts for roughly 93% (or 2.5 million miles) of America's paved roadways and interstates, but how much do we really know about it? Where does it come from? How is it made? This article gives you a small glimpse into the production process of asphalt pavement.

When you hear the word “asphalt”, you probably picture a smooth black concrete surface, but that is not the case. In its purest form, asphalt is a hydrocarbon mixture which is a byproduct derived from the waste material of oil refinement. During the production of asphalt cement, this hydrocarbon byproduct is heated to about 300° F, or until it has the consistency of tar. At this point, other elements such as crushed stone, sand, and gravel are mixed in to provide a solid, durable surface. When mixing is complete, the resulting product only contains about 5% asphalt and 95% crushed stone.

From there, the hot asphalt concrete is poured, flattened, and steamrolled to make the roads, parking lots, and highways that you drive on every day. Other common uses for asphalt include roofing shingles, waterproofing underground storage tanks, and improving the durability of certain dark paints and finishes.

Interested in learning more about how asphalt is made? Check out this article.

Roccie's Asphalt is a paving contractor and stone mason located in Stamford, Connecticut. Since 1956, we have provided Fairfield and Westchester counties with high-quality services at affordable prices. Visit our website to see what we can do for you or call us for a free estimate at 888-88-ROCCIES.

What Sets Roccie's Asphalt Apart

If you are considering a new driveway for your home or parking lot for your business, look no further than Roccie's Asphalt. Home and business owners in Fairfield County, CT and Westchester County, NY have depended on us for decades for all of their paving needs, and you can too.

Here are just a few things that set us apart from the rest:

Family Owned & Operated.

Since our inception in 1956, Roccie's Asphalt has remained family owned and operated. What does this mean for you, the customer? It means that we are still as committed to our clients as we were all those years ago. You will get fast, reliable, service of the highest quality which we are proud to call our own – that's why we put our name on it.

50+ Years of Experience.

When it comes to asphalt paving, the contractor you choose can make a world of difference. Even the most durable materials on the planet won't last long if they are not properly installed. If you are shopping for a new asphalt driveway or commercial parking lot, you want a company that knows what they are doing – you want Roccie's Asphalt. Our vast level of experience is just one of the reasons that the Better Business Bureau has given us an A+ grade.

Attention to Detail.

At Roccie's Asphalt, we believe that the start of every job is a blank canvas. We aren't just paving asphalt and laying stone; we are making art. All of our employees are highly trained and experts in their craft, see for yourself by checking out our customer gallery.

Want to get started on your next paving project? Visit our website for more information or give us a call at 888-88-ROCCIES.

Asphalt's Three Biggest Enemies

When professionally installed, a new asphalt driveway can last upwards of 20 years, but not without a little bit of maintenance. Although asphalt is an incredibly strong and durable material, it too has its kryptonite – in fact, it has three of them.

Read below to find out the three biggest enemies of asphalt, as well as what you can do to prevent your driveway from meeting its early demise.

Water
When left standing, water can penetrate the surface of your asphalt driveway and begin to weaken its base. This is made worse in cold weather, where the water can freeze and expand, causing cracks and potholes to develop. Prevent water from damaging your driveway by using porous asphalt or by installing an effective drainage solution, such as trench drains.

Oil and Gasoline
Not only are oil and gasoline stains unsightly, they can quickly deteriorate your driveway's surface. The binding agent in asphalt pavement is derived from crude oil, and almost any petroleum distillate can cause this agent to break down, weakening the pavement and causing it to become soft. The best way to prevent this from happening is by sealcoating the surface as soon as the pavement is cured and cleaning up all oil and gas spills immediately. Click here to learn how to remove oil stains from your driveway.

Sunlight
Just like exposure to the sun can damage our skin, it is also harmful to your driveway. On a molecular level, UV rays speed up asphalt's reaction with oxygen, which causes faster discoloration and fading of your driveway's surface. The best defense against this is by routinely sealcoating your driveway, which is a staple in any good asphalt maintenance plan. You can learn about the benefits of sealcoating here.

The asphalt experts at Roccie's Paving have been repairing, resurfacing, and repaving residential driveways and commercial parking lots in Connecticut and New York for well over 50 years. Family owned and operated since our creation, we are committed to providing our customers with high quality services at an affordable rate. Visit our website for more information or call us for a free estimate at 1-888-88-ROCCIES.

What Attracts Customers to a Parking Lot?

Your parking lot is one of the first impressions that your business makes on potential customers; what is your parking lot saying about you? An old, unappealing parking lot could actually be turning customers away before they even step foot in your store, while a professionally-paved surface could attract new customers who are driving by.

Here are three qualities that attract customers to a parking lot:

• A Smooth, Beautiful Surface. First and foremost, a newly-paved parking lot with a deep black finish and freshly-painted parking lines stands out – in a good way. When you are driving, you tend to avoid cracks and potholes; parking is no different! These kind of blemishes are not only unsightly, they put your customers at risk of injuring themselves and damaging their vehicles.
• Available Spots. Nobody likes driving around in circles waiting for a parking spot to open up. Can your current lot accommodate the parking needs of your customers? The quality of your asphalt surface is important, but the quantity of spots available should not be taken lightly either.
• Proper Draining. Whether it is pouring rain or melting snow, your parking lot needs to sufficiently drain any water on its surface. Not only will standing water lead to the premature deterioration of your asphalt parking lot, your customers will not want to park their car or walk through a massive puddle outside of your business.

Does your parking lot have all three of these qualities? If not, Roccie's Asphalt can help! Whether you need to expand the size of your commercial parking lot, resurface it, or add a drainage solution, you can count on Roccie's to provide a high-quality job at an affordable rate. Homes and businesses in New York and Connecticut have counted on us for their paving needs for more than 50 years, so call us today for a free consultation at 1-888-88-ROCCIES.

Common Causes for Driveway Drainage Problems

Do you experience standing water and puddles in your driveway after every rainstorm? Driveway drainage issues are a common complaint among homeowners; not only is it an inconvenience, standing water can break down the surface of your driveway and cause the asphalt to deteriorate prematurely.

Here are three of the most common reasons for driveway drainage issues, and what you can do to fix them.

Lack of a Drainage System

The most common cause for driveway drainage issues is not having a drainage system to begin with. Common drainage solutions include trench drains, which are grated openings similar to sewers, and porous asphalt, which naturally allows water to run through it and drain into the ground below. If you don't currently have a drainage system, installing one is easier during a complete repaving, but they can also be implemented into your existing driveway.

Uneven Driveway

The slope of your driveway plays a key role in how effectively it can drain water. If you have an uneven surface, water will run down from high spots and puddle in the low spots. Another factor is the slope of the area around you – it is much easier to drain water when you live on top of a hill than it is when you live on the bottom of one. If you have an uneven driveway, the best thing to do it contact a paving contractor to resurface it.

Surface Damage

If the surface of your driveway is ridden with cracks and potholes, it will give rainwater a place to collect. To make things worse, it also gives the water easier access to the foundation of your driveway, where it can freeze and expand during cold weather to further worsen the damage. Prevent this by patching all cracks and holes immediately and sealcoating your asphalt driveway every 2-3 years.

Are you experiencing driveway drainage problems on your New York or Connecticut property? Help is just a phone call away with Roccie's Paving! Whether you need a drainage system installation, a resurfacing, or anVisit our website to learn more about our services or call us for a free estimate at 1-888-88ROCCIES.

entirely new driveway, we can provide you with a professional-quality job at a reasonable rate.

Since 1956, homeowners and businesses in Fairfield County, CT and Westchester County, NY have trusted Roccie's Paving with all of their asphalt needs!

Our Services

Since 1956, Roccie's Asphalt has been a leading provider of paving services to southwestern Connecticut and Westchester County, New York. From parking lot paving to stone masonry, we complete a full spectrum of jobs for residential and commercial customers alike. Take a look at our wide variety of services.

Driveway Paving

Whether you need your asphalt driveway resurfaced or completely repaved, Roccie's has the machinery and experienced technicians to deliver a quality job at an affordable price. The key to a strong, durable driveway is a solid foundation and an experienced paving contractor – that is why all of our driveways are built to last!

Masonry

In addition to asphalt driveways, our employees are experts in the art of masonry. If you need a stone patio, wall, terrace, walkway, border, or apron, talk to one of our consultants and we can help you turn the masonry project of your dreams into a reality!

Drainage Solutions

Are you experiencing water puddling in your driveway? Not only is it inconvenient, it can deteriorate your asphalt surface and shorten its lifespan! Whether your drainage issues are caused by the lack of a drainage system, a sloped surface, or cracks and holes in your driveway, Roccie's will work with you to fix your problems.

Parking Lot Paving

Businesses in Fairfield County, CT and Westchester County, NY can take advantage of our paving services too! No matter if you are the owner of a shopping center, the maintenance director of a school, the elder of a church, or something else, a freshly-paved parking lot will help make your property look more appealing and attract people to your building.

With well over 50 years of experience and an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau, it is no wonder why homeowners and commercial clients in New York and Connecticut trust Roccie's Asphalt for all of their paving needs! Contact us today for a free estimate, give us a call at 1-888-88ROCCIES.

How to Clean Your Asphalt Driveway

Your asphalt driveway is one of the first things that your guests and neighbors see when they pass your house, so it is important to keep it clean in order to leave a good impression. Cleaning your asphalt driveway is a relatively quick process, and since it requires products that you probably already have around the house, it doesn't need to be expensive.

Clean your asphalt driveway every month or two using this five-step process:

1. Sweep away loose debris. Using a push broom, sweep away leaves, grass clippings, dirt, and any other debris which is sitting on top of your driveway.
2. Hose down the surface. Use your garden hose to cover your entire driveway with a stream of water. This will help remove residue which has made its way into the small crevices in your driveway and make removing stains easier.
3. Pretreat oil stains and tire marks. You can use baking soda, dish detergent (such as Dawn), or powdered laundry detergent to remove unsightly marks from your driveway. Whatever your cleaning agent of choice, pour a generous amount onto the blemish and allow it to soak in for a few minutes.
4. Scrub the stain away. Mix warm water and more cleaning product in a large bucket. Using a stiff-bristled hand brush, work the cleaning solution into the asphalt. Scrub using up-and-down, left-to-right, and circular motions until the stain is removed.
5. Rinse your driveway. After scrubbing your driveway, the only thing left to do is rinse it off. Once again, grab your garden hose and use a high-pressure stream of water to completely remove the cleaning product from your driveway.

If your driveway is covered in tarnishes, cracks, and potholes, the best way to enhance its appearance is with a complete repaving. New York and Connecticut homeowners can depend on Roccie's Asphalt to provide a high-quality paving at a reasonable rate. From asphalt driveways to stone masonry, we can do it all! See for yourself by checking out our gallery, or call us for a free quote at 1-888-88-ROCCIES.

5 Driveway Designs to Enhance Your Curb Appeal

Your driveway is one of the first impressions that your home leaves on family, friends, and neighbors. A beautifully-designed, well-crafted driveway can pull the entire look of a house together, while an old, worn out surface leaves much to be desired.

If you are in search of inspiration for your upcoming driveway paving, you are in luck. These five designs are sure to enhance the curb appeal of any home.

Photo Courtesy of Landscaping Network

Trim It to Win It
Concrete pavers alone can make any driveway look good, but the brick trim is what really sets this one apart. Small, simple design elements such as trimming your surface with a contrasting color or material can really make your driveway pop.

Photo Courtesy of Landscaping Network

All About the Roundabout
If your driveway has enough extra space, the addition of a roundabout can do wonders for your curb appeal. In addition to adding flow to your driveway, a roundabout also provides a beautiful centerpiece and ties your driveway into your landscaping.

Photo Courtesy of House Logic

Make Your Mark
Give your driveway a customized sense of style and flare with a bit of stamped concrete. Available in countless patterns and designs, unique edging and aprons are a sure way to make your driveway stand out.

Photo Courtesy of House Logic

Going Green
Porous pavers, like the ones pictured above, can add life to your driveway - literally. This environmentally-friendly option promotes the growth of plants while reducing water runoff by allowing rainfall to naturally drain into the ground. It is also a very economical option for those with a tight budget.

Photo Courtesy of Scenic Landscaping

Two-Tone Stone
Adding a stone apron and trim to the edge of an asphalt driveway gives you the best of both worlds: you have a unique, upscale-looking driveway without the high price tag of an all-stone alternative. This design is perfect for someone who wants to upgrade their driveway without breaking the bank.



If you live in Connecticut or New York and are thinking about repaving your home’s driveway, talk to the experts at Roccie’s Paving. From plain asphalt to stone masonry, we can help turn the driveway of your dreams into a reality. Click here to visit our website or call us for a free quote at 1-888-88ROCCIES.

Summer Tips for Your Asphalt Driveway

Summer is almost here, which means you will be spending more time outside, and inevitably more time with your asphalt driveway; so you will want to make sure that it looks its best. Here are some things you can do this summer to help keep your driveway in pristine condition and protect your investment.

Keep Your Driveway Clear of Lawn Debris

Leaving dirt, grass clippings, leaves, and other debris on your driveway for long periods of time can cause uneven fading. Whenever you perform any kind of landscaping, lawn mowing, or other yard work around the house, take an extra minute to sweep off your driveway or wash it down with a hose.

Avoid Parking in the Exact Same Spot
Heavy loads placed on the same spot for long periods of time may eventually cause your asphalt driveway to settle unevenly, especially in the summer when the hot temperatures make the surface softer and more impressionable. Make a conscious effort to park in a different spot every day, even if it is only a foot or two away, and avoid leaving a vehicle parked for several days at a time.


Keep Sharp Objects Off the Surface
It is always recommended to keep sharp objects off of your asphalt driveway, but this is especially important during the summertime. Motorcycle kickstands, lawn chairs, grill legs, and even high heel shoes can place a significant amount of weight on a small surface area and lead to punctures and holes in your asphalt driveway.


Keep Cool
If you have an irrigation system, adjust the heads to spray a little water on the driveway. This will help keep the surface cool on the warmest of days.


If your driveway is discolored, cracked, or full of potholes, Roccie's Asphalt can provide you with a new asphalt surface which will enhance your home's curb appeal and even boost your resale value. Serving Fairfield County, Connecticut and Westchester County, New York, Roccie's Asphalt has over 50 years of paving experience. Click here to visit our website or call us for a no-hassle, obligation-free estimate at 1-888-88ROCCIES.

3 Benefits of Sealcoating Your Driveway

If your home has an asphalt driveway, you know that a paving isn't cheap. A brand new asphalt surface can cost up to $4 per square foot or more in some cases, so you will want to do everything you can to protect your investment. One of the best things you can do to preserve your driveway is to sealcoat it every 3 to 5 years. Sealcoating your driveways adds a protective layer to defend the asphalt surface against UV rays, water, and oil or gasoline spills.


Here are three reasons why you should sealcoat your asphalt driveway.

• Extend the life of your driveway. Without proper care, an asphalt driveway may only last 7-10 years, but that can be doubled with a good maintenance plan. Uncoated asphalt is susceptible to damage from water, UV rays, petroleum distillates (gas and oil) and other elements. A professional quality sealcoat will help keep these elements from penetrating the surface of your driveway and deteriorating its base.
  
• A fresh finish. Remember how your asphalt driveway looked when it was freshly paved? Chances are it doesn't look like that anymore – sunlight causes the color of asphalt to fade after only a year or two. A new sealcoat will restore your driveway to that beautiful, deep black finish that you remember.
  
• Winter weather defense. A sealcoat is the perfect defense against winter weather. The dark black color will attract more sunlight to your driveway, thus allowing ice and snow to melt faster. A new sealcoat with sand mixed in will also provide more traction in slippery conditions, making your driveway safer for all. Winter is also the season where your driveway is most vulnerable to developing potholes due to the constant freezing and thawing of water, so applying sealer will help keep the asphalt flexible for a longer period of time to help prevent premature cracking.
  

Sealcoating can be done as a DIY project, but to fully reap the benefits it is recommended that you hire a professional service. Homeowners in Connecticut and New York can count on Roccie's Asphalt to provide a high quality sealcoat at just pennies per square foot. Contact us for a free estimate today by calling 1-888-88ROCCIES.

5 Questions to Ask Your Paving Contractor

Paving an asphalt driveway is no small task; it requires a knowledgeable contractor, heavy machinery, and a significant investment of your time and money. If you want a long-lasting driveway that you are sure to be satisfied with, you will need to do a bit of research to find the best paving contractor in your area. Asking potential companies these five questions will help you separate the good from the bad.

1. What is the scope of the project?

If you are gathering quotes from multiple contractors in your area, make sure that they provide you with a clearly-defined scope of work. If you don't know exactly what is included in their price, looking over multiple bids is like comparing apples to oranges.

2. Are you properly licensed and insured?

Never hire a paving company unless they have a valid contractor's license and proof of insurance. A contractor's license number is your first line of defense if something goes wrong; unlicensed contractors often disappear after a job is done. If your contractor doesn't carry general liability and worker's compensation insurances, you could be personally liable if anyone were to be injured on your property. Protect yourself by only choosing a contractor who is both licensed and insured.

3. Do you have any references or nearby jobs I can look at?

If a paving contractor tells you that they are the best in the world, don't take their word for it. Instead, ask them for a list of references; these people are much more likely to be objective with you. Any good paving company will happily provide you with a list of satisfied customers or show you some of their completed jobs nearby.

4. Do you offer a contract in writing?

If a contractor won't offer you anything more than their word, take this as a red flag. A gentleman's handshake is nice, but a written contract is what you want. Make sure that the contract lists the exact work to be done, the materials which will be used, the terms of payment, and a start and completion date. Look over this contract carefully and always ask if something is unclear.

5. Are you accredited by the Better Business Bureau?

For more than a century, the Better Business Bureau (also known as the BBB) has helped consumers find trustworthy businesses in their area. Choosing a paving contractor who is BBB-accredited adds an additional level of accountability and gives you peace of mind knowing that you are working with a reputable company. You can also see a history of their complaints and how they handled them by visiting the BBB's official website.

For almost 60 years, Roccie's Asphalt has provided Connecticut and New York homeowners with high quality paving jobs at an affordable price. We are fully licensed, insured, and have an A+ accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. If you are thinking about installing a new asphalt driveway for your home, call us for a free, no-obligation quote at 1-888-88ROCCIES.

Step-By-Step DIY Crack Patching for Your Asphalt Driveway

Has the long, relentless winter left your asphalt driveway with unsightly cracks this spring? Winters are generally the worst season for asphalt, as water from melted snow can penetrate the surface of your driveway. Over time, this water constantly freezes and thaws, expanding more and more with each cycle and eventually causing the asphalt surface to crack.

If you are planning on doing a little bit of DIY damage control this spring, follow these steps to patch up your driveway's cracks and holes.

1. Buy some cold asphalt patch from a local hardware store. One 50 pound bag should sufficiently fill most small-medium sized cracks and potholes up to one foot in diameter.
2. Remove any debris from the cracks you are sealing. You don't need to get every microscopic particle out, but remove any large rocks and other objects before moving on to the next step.
3. Pour the asphalt patch into the crack. If the bag or bucket is too heavy to lift, you can shovel it in.
4. Compress the asphalt mix with a hand tamp. This is the key to a successful patching. If you don't have a hand tamp, a shovel will also work; just make sure to press it down tightly.
5. Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the crack is completely filled and level with the rest of your driveway.
6. Cover the patch for 2-3 days. This isn't necessary, but covering up the patch with a piece of plywood for 48 hours will allow it properly cure and will produce the best results.

This method is effective for a few small cracks or potholes, but if your driveway is covered, it is best to call in the pros. Roccie's Asphalt has served Connecticut and New York homeowners and businesses alike for more than 50 years. Whether you need your driveway repaired or repaved, call us for a free quote at 1-888-88ROCCIES.

Benefits of Driveway Pavers

If you are a homeowner who is considering installing a new driveway, one of the biggest decisions you will have to make is which material to use. While asphalt and concrete driveways are both good choices, some people don't like their plain, boring appearance.

Concrete pavers are a great choice for any driveway, sidewalk, or patio. They provide a unique look, plus some other awesome benefits. Here are 5 advantages of using concrete pavers for your new driveway:

• Enhanced curb appeal. If you want to make your home stand out (in a good way), a new concrete paver driveway is just what you need. Your driveway is the first thing your guests see when they pull up to your house; leave a good first impression with brand new, professionally installed pavers.

• Durability. When correctly installed, paver driveways can last up to 50 years – that's longer than both asphalt and concrete. They are able withstand heavy loads without cracking because each individual paver has joints which allow for expansion and contraction.

• Easy to Repair. Unlike other driveway surfaces, repairing pavers is a quick and easy process. Simply remove the damaged paver and replace it with a new one, it's as simple as that! You can patch up cracked asphalt and concrete, but the area is often discolored and unsightly, something you don't have to worry about with pavers.

• Low Maintenance. Very little maintenance is needed to preserve the original strength and appearance of your pavers. A routine sweeping or wash with a garden hose is all that is needed to keep your pavers looking like new, just make sure to pull any weeds that you spot growing in between joints.

• Endless Design Options. With pavers, your design options are virtually endless. Available in a wide variety of colors and styles, you can choose pavers which complement your home's colors and landscape. Your contractor can also lay them in a variety of shapes and patterns to add a little bit of flash and personality to your driveway.

Unlike asphalt and concrete which need to be cured, you can use pavers immediately after they are installed. If you live in Connecticut or New York, a beautiful driveway is only a phone call away with Roccie's. The BBB gave us an A+ rating, so you can trust that your new driveway will be installed exactly as you want it. Call us today for a free quote at 1-888-88ROCCIES.