Diamond Paving Frequently Asked Questions

The key difference between resurfacing/rehabilitation and sealcoating is that resurfacing/rehabilitation is a structural repair that can significantly increase the lifespan of your asphalt surface. This involves patching any necessary areas and applying a new layer of hot bituminous asphalt, typically between 1 ½” to 3". On the other hand, sealcoating does not address structural issues and can be compared to painting your house. While sealcoating can protect and extend the life of your asphalt, it does not correct any underlying structural problems. As a result, sealcoating is typically much less expensive than resurfacing.

Tire scuff marks are a result of turning your car's steering wheel while the vehicle is stationary. If the asphalt has not fully cured and it is a hot day, the surface can be marred, akin to the way a soft substance would be affected if you ground your heel into it. With time, the scuff marks will become less noticeable.

Asphalt is made up of around 95% different-sized aggregates and 5% black asphalt cement. Although the mixes we use are approved by the state, there may be variations in the appearance and characteristics of the mixes from different asphalt plants. It is common to expect some variation in the surface texture of the asphalt between loads and in different areas of a paved surface.

Achieving proper compaction of your asphalt surface is a crucial factor in producing a long-lasting job, with 90% compaction being the ideal. However, it's not uncommon for the rollers to leave temporary 'streaks' or marks on the surface of the driveway. Over time, these marks will become less noticeable and blend in with the rest of the surface.

The edges or 'shoulders' of your driveway are particularly vulnerable and require proper support. If significant weight is placed on the edge (such as by driving a car or lawnmower right to the edge), it may crack or break off. To prevent this, we create a 'beveled edge' on the side of the drive with a 45° angle to diffuse the pressure. You can also help by installing seeded topsoil against the finished height of the asphalt once the job is completed to further support the edge.

Asphalt is derived from petroleum and can be affected by oils, gasoline, and brake fluids, which act as solvents, softening the surface and making it more vulnerable to damage. That's why it's important to exercise extreme caution when filling lawnmowers or gas tanks on the driveway.

Compacted asphalt should ideally have 10% air voids. If a grass seed finds its way into the mix and germinates, it can result in grass growth on the surface. The most effective solution is to use a herbicide such as 'Round Up' to kill the grass and prevent further growth.

This question is a bit tricky. The outcome of patching your driveway depends on various factors. When a section of your driveway is patched, it will appear as a black area amidst the existing graying surface. If your driveway has been previously sealcoated, the new asphalt patch may also have a more porous texture. While some people do not mind this and appreciate the added protection to their driveway investment, others may find it unsightly and choose to have the entire driveway resurfaced or sealcoated after the patching is completed.

In order for a driveway to fully harden, the asphalt cement used in the construction process needs time to cure, which typically takes about a year. During the first year, your new driveway may become soft or tender on very warm days, which is a normal occurrence. However, it's important to exercise caution on such days. For example, avoid turning the steering wheel of a car while it's stationary, and be aware that even a jack stand or a bicycle kickstand could make an impression on the surface.

Paving machines are typically used to pave most driveways. However, due to the size of the paving machine, certain areas such as in front of garages, walkways, or along walls may need to be spread and raked by hand using tools. As a result, these areas may have slightly different textures. This is a normal occurrence, and as time passes, these areas will become less noticeable.

Binder (also referred to as basecoat) and topcoat are both types of asphalt paving materials made by combining hot asphalt cement and aggregate. The percentages and sizes of aggregate vary depending on the intended use. Typically, a binder course (also known as the load-bearing course) contains mostly 3/4" aggregate, with the stone in the asphalt being larger. This is applied first at a specified thickness, depending on the intended use. The finish or topcoat, on the other hand, mainly contains 3/8" aggregate (for a smoother topcoat finish that you see on most asphalt surfaces) and is applied over the binder. Its thickness is engineered and dependent on the job specifications.