Is it time to enlist the expertise of local paving contractors in Poughkeepsie? If so, all you have to do is pick up the phone and call R. Stanley Paving LLC. Boasting a full suite of services and a celebrated approach to customer service, we repair and construct paved surfaces with timeliness, durability, and affordability in mind.

Do you have questions about our rates, availability, or the paving services we offer? Call (845) 831-1616 at your convenience to speak with our paving company.

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What is the Difference Between Asphalt Pavement and Concrete Pavement?

Asphalt and concrete pavements are both common choices but differ in their composition and key features. Asphalt is a flexible pavement made from bitumen mixed with aggregate (crushed rock). It's known for its smooth ride, quicker installation, and affordability. Concrete, on the other hand, is a rigid pavement that combines cement, aggregate, and water, resulting in a strong, durable surface. Concrete excels in weight-bearing capacity and longevity and has lower maintenance needs, but it can be more expensive upfront and crack under extreme temperature shifts.

Asphalt is generally cheaper and better for cold climates because of its crack repair flexibility, while concrete offers superior durability, requires less maintenance, and comes in a wider variety of finishes—perfect for driveways where aesthetics matter most. For parking lots, asphalt's affordability and traffic handling win out in most cases, but concrete's heat resistance makes it a strong contender in hot climates.

How Do You Prepare the Ground for Paving?

Before any paving work begins, you must prepare the ground properly.

This includes:

• Clearing the area: The first step is to remove any obstacles, such as rocks, debris, or vegetation from the area that will be paved. This allows for a clean and even surface.
• Leveling: Next, our team will use heavy equipment such as bulldozers and graders to level the ground and create a stable base for the pavement.
• Grading: To ensure proper drainage, grading is essential during preparation. Our team will shape the surface to allow water to flow away from the paved area.
• Compacting: To prevent cracks and dips in your pavement, we use a compactor to compress the ground and create a solid base for the asphalt or concrete.
• Applying a base layer: Once the ground is prepared, we'll lay down a layer of crushed stone or gravel as a base for the pavement.

How Long Does It Take for Paving To Cure?

The curing time for paving varies depending on the materials used and the environmental conditions. For asphalt paving, the surface typically requires 24 to 48 hours to dry enough for light use, but it can take several days to weeks to fully cure and reach its maximum hardness.

Concrete paving, on the other hand, generally needs at least 7 days to cure before it can handle regular traffic; however, it can take up to 28 days to achieve full strength.

What Is the Best Weather for Asphalt Paving?

The best weather for asphalt paving typically ranges between 50°F and 85°F with dry conditions. Warm temperatures allow the asphalt mix to remain workable for proper compaction and smooth finish.

However, avoiding extremely hot weather is vital as it can make the asphalt too soft. Dry weather is equally important to ensure the base is firm and moisture-free. Rain can interfere with the binding process, leading to weaker and less durable pavement.

For these reasons, spring and early summer are often considered the ideal seasons for asphalt paving projects.

What Happens If It Rains on Fresh Asphalt?

If the asphalt has not had sufficient time to cure, water can seep into the mixture, leading to a weakened structure and potential damage. The presence of water can cause the surface to cool too quickly, preventing proper compaction and resulting in a less durable pavement. Additionally, rainwater can wash away newly laid aggregates, creating an uneven surface.

To mitigate these risks, monitor the weather forecast and schedule paving activities during dry conditions. If unexpected rain occurs, protecting the asphalt with tarps or covering it with sand can help minimize damage.

R. Stanley Paving LLC: Your Comprehensive Paving Company

Our paving company offers a comprehensive range of services to keep your property looking its best and functioning smoothly.

Some of the services we offer include:

• Driveway paving and repairs for new installations, resurfacing, and crack sealing.
• Parking lot paving and maintenance for commercial properties, ensuring a safe and attractive space for your customers and employees.
• Asphalt repairs for potholes, cracks, and other asphalt surfaces to prevent further damage and maintain a level surface.
• Patio paving and design to create beautiful and durable outdoor living areas for your home.
• Sidewalk construction and repairs for safe pedestrian walkways around your property.

How Do You Protect Your New Asphalt Driveway?

Here are some tips for maintaining your pavement:

• Regularly clean and sweep your driveway to remove debris and prevent staining.
• Sealcoat your asphalt pavement every 2-3 years to protect it from sun, water, and oil damage.
• Repair any cracks or holes immediately to prevent them from spreading and causing further damage.
• Avoid using deicers on concrete pavements, as they can cause spalling and other damage.
• Keep heavy vehicles off the pavement for at least three days after installation to allow for proper curing.

How Do Pavements Crack?

Pavements can crack for various reasons, many of which are related to environmental factors, usage, and the material's inherent properties.

Some common causes of pavement cracking include the following:

• Heavy vehicles and equipment constantly driving on the surface can lead to stress and weight-bearing issues.
• Extreme temperatures, particularly freezing and thawing cycles, can cause expansion and contraction in the pavement, leading to cracks.
• Poor installation or lack of proper base preparation can result in uneven settlement and shifting of the pavement, causing cracks to form.
• Natural wear and tear over time, including exposure to UV rays, chemicals, and water can also cause the pavement to deteriorate and crack.

When Should You Be Worried About Concrete Cracks?

Not all cracks in concrete warrant immediate concern. Some small hairline cracks are common and typically do not affect the pavement's structural integrity. However, if you notice large or significant cracks, particularly those wider than a quarter inch, they may be a sign of underlying issues and should be addressed quickly.

Also, if the cracks are accompanied by uneven settlement or other signs of pavement damage, such as potholes or crumbling edges, it is important to take action before the problem worsens.

Why Should You Invest in Driveway Paving?

Driveway paving might seem like an unnecessary expense today, but it doesn't take long for a gravel driveway to start giving you trouble. Loose gravel tracks into your house, creating a mess and potentially damaging floors. During heavy rain, the gravel can wash away, leaving uneven surfaces and potential drainage issues. Snow removal becomes a battle in the winter, and muddy patches can form as the snow melts. These constant hassles quickly erode the initial cost savings of a gravel driveway.

Contacting us about a paved driveway offers a long-term solution. A smooth, paved surface is easy to maintain, reducing the need for constant gravel top-ups and repairs. It allows for efficient snow removal and prevents muddy messes during wet weather. Plus, a well-maintained paved driveway enhances the curb appeal of your property, potentially increasing its value.

Is Sealcoating a Driveway Worth It?

Sealcoating is applying a protective layer over an existing paved surface, typically made of asphalt. This layer acts as a barrier against natural elements such as water, UV rays, and chemicals, which can damage and deteriorate your pavement over time.

While some may see sealcoating as an extra cost, it can actually save you money in the long run by extending the lifespan of your pavement. When sealed properly, your driveway or parking lot can last up to 10-15 years longer than if left untreated. This means fewer repairs and replacements in the future.

Does Sealing Pavers Prevent Drainage?

If applied correctly, sealcoating should not affect the drainage of your pavement. In fact, seal coating can actually improve drainage by filling in small cracks and pores that may be hindering water flow.

However, it’s important to ensure that your pavement is properly graded and has adequate drainage systems before sealcoating. If there are existing issues with poor drainage, these should be addressed prior to sealcoating to ensure proper pavement functioning.

Do You Need a Permit to Repave Your Driveway in Poughkeepsie?

Repaving your driveway in Poughkeepsie will likely require a permit from the local government. This is to ensure that the work being done meets building codes and standards and to prevent potential safety hazards.

Before starting any paving project, it’s important to check with your local government or homeowner's association to determine if a permit is required.

In addition, obtaining a permit may also require submitting plans and getting approval from authorities. This is an important step in ensuring that your paved surface will be safe, durable, and compliant with all necessary regulations.