Common Driveway Drainage Problems and Solutions

Did you know that water is one of asphalt's biggest enemies? While it may be a refreshing drink for us, water left standing on your driveway can cause cracks, potholes, and premature deterioration. If you notice puddles and pools forming after every rainstorm, this indicates a serious drainage issue.

Here are three common reasons for driveway drainage problems, and a few things you can do to correct them.

Improper Driveway Slope

The most effective weapon in combating driveway drainage problems is a healthy slope. Ideally, your driveway should be sloped slightly away from your home so that rainwater washes into the street or another designated drainage area. If your driveway isn't properly sloped, it may need to be graded by a professional contractor.

Poor Downspout Placement

Gutters play an important role for the home: protecting it from water damage. The sole purpose of the gutter system is to direct rain water away from your home and foundation. Unfortunately, many downspouts are emptied directly onto driveways, where the water can have an equally devastating effect. Use a downspout extender to keep water as far away from your home (and driveway) as possible.

Surface Damage

If your driveway is covered in cracks and potholes, it provides crevices for water to collect in. It also creates an easier path for water to infiltrate the foundation of your driveway, where it can begin to deteriorate the base. The best way to fix this problem is to patch all of your cracks as soon as they form, and sealcoat your driveway every few years.

In addition to these solutions, supplemental drainage components – such as trench drains – may need to be installed. If you live in Connecticut and suffer from any of these driveway drainage problems, give the paving experts at Roccie's Asphalt a call at 888-88-ROCCIES.

3 Common Misconceptions About Asphalt Paving

Although asphalt is one of the most commonly-used materials in the world, there is still a lot of misinformation being spread about it. Luckily, the experts at Roccie's Paving are here to defend this wonderful material by clearing up these three common misconceptions about asphalt paving.

Misconception #1: Asphalt is expensive.

Many people opt for concrete driveways because they are under the belief that they are cheaper than asphalt. The truth is, the price of concrete can be more than double that of asphalt, in terms of both installation and repair.

Misconception #2: Asphalt is not durable.

Asphalt has a bad reputation because people see alligator cracks and potholes and assume that happens to every asphalt surface. In reality, these problems occur as a result of poor maintenance or pre-existing problems beneath the surface. A properly-installed asphalt driveway can last upwards of 30 years with a little bit of maintenance and occasional sealcoating.

Misconception #3: Asphalt is not environmentally-friendly.

Because of the black, tarlike consistency of asphalt, it is perceived to be bad for the environment. Contrary to popular belief, this could not be further from the truth. Believe it or not, asphalt is one of the most eco-friendly materials on the planet. It is 100% recyclable and is actually the most-recycled material in the country. Not to mention the fact that porous asphalt reduces water runoff and allows more rainwater to reach the soil in the ground.

Want to get started on your next asphalt paving project? The experts at Roccie's Asphalt are just a phone call away! If you live in Fairfield County CT or Westchester County NY, call us for a free quote at 888-88-ROCCIES.

3 Ways to Save Money on Your Next Commercial Paving Project

A new asphalt parking lot is a significant investment for any business, but there are ways to limit your spending without sacrificing the quality of work. Here are three ways you can save money on your next asphalt paving project.

Save money with proper water drainage.

Water may be essential for human life, but it is detrimental to the life of your asphalt parking lot. Water left standing on an asphalt surface can break down the cement's binding agent, causing it to prematurely deteriorate. For this reason, implementing a sufficient drainage system is imperative for a long-lasting parking lot. Spending a little extra time and money to plan your drainage system now will save you from costly repairs and headaches down the road.

Save money by performing regular maintenance work.

There is an old adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This is especially true when it comes to maintaining an asphalt parking lot. Fixing big problems is usually far more expensive than fixing small problems before they get out of control, or making sure little problems don't get started in the first place. Here are a few tasks that every good maintenance routine should include:

• Regularly sweep or power wash your parking lot to remove corrosive debris.
• Patch small cracks and potholes as they appear to prevent them from growing and spreading.
• Sealcoat your parking lot every 3-5 years to add a protective layer and seal small cracks.

Save money by choosing the right contractor.

Your asphalt parking lot is only as good as the contractor who installs it. The same job performed by two different contractors can yield two very different results; so it is important to find a reputable service with high-quality workmanship. A good contractor gets the job done right the first time, preventing future resurfacing and repaving jobs, which can cost a pretty penny.

If you own a business in Fairfield County, CT or Westchester County, NY, look no further than Roccie's Asphalt for all of your paving needs. As a BBB-accredited business with 60 years of experience, you can count on us to get the job done right for an honest price. Call us today for a free estimate at 888-88-ROCCIES.

How to Avoid 3 Common Summer Pavement Problems

Summer is usually a time for relaxation, but if you take a vacation from your driveway, you could be in for a costly mistake. Unfortunately, the warm weather is not without it's fair share of problems for our beloved asphalt surfaces.

Here are three of the most common problems you are likely to experience during the summer months, and what you can do to avoid them.

Standing Water

Heavy rainstorms can take their toll on your driveway, and they aren't just exclusive to the spring months. Pools of water left standing can deteriorate the binding agent in the asphalt and cause permanent damage. If you notice puddles in your driveway after every storm, contact a paving professional to discuss drainage solutions.

Sun Damage

Just like the sun's ultraviolet rays can damage your skin, they can also damage your driveway. The best way to protect asphalt from the sun is by routinely sealcoating it. Sealcoating is cheap, and by far the best way to maintain an asphalt surface.

Tire Impressions

The hot summer sun can soften an asphalt surface, causing it to become slightly impressionable. This leaves it susceptible to small tire imprints from your vehicle. Avoid this by parking your car in a different spot every day. You don't need to be on opposite ends of your driveway – just a couple of feet makes a difference.

With the help of Roccie's Asphalt, your asphalt driveway can maintain its appearance for years to come. We are the premier paving contractor in all of Fairfield County, Connecticut and Westchester County, New York. With more than 60 years of experience, don't trust anyone else with your asphalt paving needs. Visit us online or give us a call at 888-88-ROCCIES for more information.