Tire Scuffing On An Asphalt Driveway In Cortlandt Manor , New York.

/in /by

What Causes Tire Scuffing On My Driveway?

Tire scuffing is very common on new asphalt. There are various ways those annoying marks can show up in your driveway. Timing, temperature, and the way you turn your vehicles have a lot to do with it.

Timing Is Everything. 

Starting with the age of the pavement. Freshly laid asphalt is more susceptible to tire scuff marks. The material is still soft and malleable, especially when the weather is warm. Over time as the material hardens, visible scuff marks will soon fade and become invisible.

Heat Softens Asphalt and Makes It Flexible. 

It is also important to understand how outdoor temperatures at various times of the year affect the rate at which asphalt hardens after being laid. Hot temperatures, particularly in late Spring throughout Summer will slow the curing process, keeping the material soft and flexible for a longer duration of time.

Tires, Vehicles, and Your Driving Tendencies. 

Your vehicle’s weight is  another cause to tire scuffing. Sudden braking, stationary turns of the tires, and vehicles that have power steering are some typical causes to scuff marks on new pavement. Front-wheel drive cars tend to have higher loading on the front wheels which results in higher contact pressure against the asphalt. Note that asphalt laid when temperatures are consistently hot will remain in a flexible, malleable state until cooler weather returns. Therefore you should be very careful and cautious on how you move your vehicle on new pavement in hot temperatures. The types of tires on your vehicle can also play a role in tire scuffing. Typically most standard tires will cause scuffing on new pavement, but tires that contain rugged tread patterns, steel belts, or trucks with off road tires are guaranteed to leave unappealing marks. In some cases, the type of asphalt your driveway is composed of will influence the chances of your driveway being marked.
Tire scuffing is commonly caused from larger vehicles

Materials Matter. 

 The quality of materials in your driveway determines its durability. Coarse aggregated asphalt typically has a less pleasing look. However, it’s more resistant to scuffing and indentation.

How Can I Prevent Marks From Tire Scuffing On My Driveway? 

Over three decades we’ve found the key to preventing problems is knowledge. Lean on our experience – the Northern Construction team knows what it takes to keep driveways looking their best. Our process ensures that your driveway is built on a strong foundation. We use durable, long-lasting materials. We educate our clients with precautionary information to keep their new driveways looking the best.

Why Should You Install Interlocking Pavers On Your Property In Carmel, NY

/in /by

What Are The Benefits Of Interlocking Pavers?

 

Value- Interlocking pavers can increase the value of your home. If properly installed, especially with hardscaping they can last for decades. They will greatly increase the aesthetic look of your home.

 

Aesthetic- Interlocking pavers come in a variety of styles and shapes. Most pavers take on modern designs associated with outdoor hardscaping. Unilock  There is many colors you can choose from. Pick one to complement your home’s exterior. They offer a nicer finish than other alternatives like concrete. Click here to visit our masonry gallery to see paver jobs we’ve installed for some of our clients!

 

Installation- Selecting a contractor to install your pavers is very important. Northern Construction has over 22 years of experience installing beautiful interlocking paver patios and walkways. We prioritize our client’s needs and always put them first. 

 

Durability: Pavers can withstand rain, ice, and snow. Pavers’ durability makes them a better alternative than concrete. Cracking doesn’t occur usually in pavers because of the joint spacing between the pavers. This is because they’re set on a sand and item four base. Joint spacing also allows pavers to adjust to any potential shifts in the foundation they sit on.

 

Repairs- Paver repairs couldn’t be easier. They can easily be lifted, replaced, or repositioned. They can also move back into alignment with little hassle. Unlike repairing a slab of concrete which may require demolition and repouring. The cost to repair or replace pavers is low. Also, their likelihood of being damaged is quite low.

 

How Do Harsh New York Winters Affect Asphalt Driveways In Yorktown, NY.

/in /by

How Does Snow And Ice Effect Asphalt?

How Does Snow And Ice Effect Asphalt? It can in a variety of ways. Precipitation during Winter in the Northeast can wear asphalt down, reducing its durability. Some homeowners, unfortunately, forget to take the necessary precautions to protect their driveways. A neglected driveway can lead to more serious matters. This may include cracking or upheaving from freeze and water damage. These problems not only look aesthetically bad but can cost quite a lot to fix. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your driveway from cold and freezing weather.

Understand What Affects Your Sealcoating

Having your driveway sealed in Fall before Winter is a great way to prevent water from entering unsealed cracks and spaces. When water gets under asphalt it compromises the sub-base and causes heaving. Also, consider using hot tar to seal the seam of your driveway and other possible cracks. Ask Northern Construction about the different types of tars and seal coats that can be applied to cracks. Hot tar and seal coat will prevent water from entering any existing cracks. 

Make Sure You Have Snow Shovels On Hand

It’s always handy to keep a few shovels around for quick and easy snow removal. Snow that is left to sit and melt will turn into ice overnight. Choose shovels that do not have overly sharp edges to prevent scratching the pavement.

How Does Snow And Ice Effect Asphalt

 

Consider the use of De-icers

Keeping your driveway free of ice is important. There are various kinds of de-icers such as calcium or rock salt. Both products are effective at preventing a buildup of ice. However, most of these products can be environmentally harmful to plants and animals. Some types of salts can be harmful to pets. They can get stuck in their paws and cause irritation. It’s important to do your research to see what products will be environmentally friendly for your driveway and pets.

 

Apply Temporary Solutions When Necessary To Extend The Life of Your Driveway

 If you notice a pothole has appeared cold mix is a temporary but effective solution. Cold mix is used to fill potholes and prevent them from expanding. Ask Northern Construction about filling potholes to prevent water and ice from heaving your driveway.  Our clients who come to us with questions are given the best recommendations from our team.  based on the condition of their driveways. For nearly three decades we’ve helped our clients maintain their driveways throughout the winter, providing them with the best choices in terms of snow and ice protection.

 

5 Key Elements In An Asphalt Driveway In Westchester, New York.

/in /by

 Key Elements In An Asphalt Driveway             1. Appearance

 Key elements in an asphalt driveway are important, starting with the look of the finished product. It can be a focal point of your house and even add value to your home. A well-paved driveway has neat and straight edges, a smooth surface to drive or walk on, and clean seams. A professional contractor will leave you with a nice-looking and strong driveway.

2. Proper installation

A professional asphalt contractor will discuss with you a game plan for your driveway. Many people have their driveway repaved because either their driveway is old and cracking or they have water issues. Driveways can either be overlaid or torn out and re-paved. An overlay is when new asphalt is paved directly over the existing driveway. When this is done, a sticky glue-like substance called tack coat is applied to the old driveway. This will create a strong bond between the old and new asphalt. When a driveway is removed, the old asphalt and sub-base are trucked away. A new sub-base is installed and compacted. Then a new finish layer of asphalt is put down.

3. Foundation – The key to a long-lasting driveway is the foundation.

Just like anything else you build, if the foundation is weak, then the structure that you put on top of it will be weak. A good driveway has sub-base Item 4. It’s common base material put down under roads and driveways. You should discuss with your contractor which item 4 they are using as there are several different grades.  Compaction is incredibly important in installing a good sub-base because if your sub-base isn’t compacted properly, it can cause sinkholes and heaving.

4. Drainage- Water is one of the most damaging elements of asphalt.

If water is not diverted away from the pavement it will form puddles and destroy the pavement over time. In the winter, standing water in your driveway can freeze and cause slipping hazards. Therefore, it is crucial to pitch the pavement to allow water runoff. However, if your home is downhill and your driveway is pitched towards your home, you may have to install a drain to capture the water and divert it away.

5. Maintenance- Proper driveway maintenance ensures the longevity of your driveway.

After a time, the asphalt will start to wear and may be subject to cracking, It’s important to fill these cracks with crack sealer so water will not penetrate and cause further damage. Seal coating is another option for maintenance. A seal coat is a liquid tar that can be applied every couple of years to protect your driveway from weather elements and keep it looking new.

Trust Northern Construction’s 20+ years of expertise in driveway paving and maintenance, contact us today for a free estimate.

Herringbone Driveway Apron

5 Questions To Ask Your Driveway Paving Company In Westchester, New York.

/in /by

Why Picking the Right Residential Paving Company Is Important?

There are many factors that go into choosing the right residential paving company. However, many people that are looking to hire a paving company know little about the process. This is completely understandable. You want to make sure you are asking all the right questions. This will ensure that you hire the company that is right for the job. Click here to visit our residential paving gallery to see the driveways we’ve paved for our clients!

1. References –

When you shop around for the best quote, you want to make sure the company has great references. A paving company should have customers that are happy with their work. Ask to see pictures of the work that was done or visit their website if they have one! Maybe even personally drive by a job they recently did to see if you like the finished product.

2. Is My Residential Paving Quote Accurate?

It is a good idea to get several estimates from different contractors for your paving job. However, chances are the quotes will vary with both the price and job description. You must compare “apples to apples” when comparing quotes. it will help you determine which contractor has the expertise to do the job correctly. The longer a company has been in business the more experience they have! Northern Construction has been in business for over 25 years!

3. The Importance Of Drainage –

It is vital that the contractor understands how the water drainage affects the pavement and what needs to be done.  Ensuring an adequate drainage plan can be achieved in place prior to paving is critical. Unfortunately, many paving contractors do not understand how to properly install adequate drainage. Northern Construction is highly skilled in installing or repairing drainage. Rain water must drain off the driveway and there should be minimal groundwater that drains underneath the driveway. In addition, a proper sub-base must be in place before paving. If the correct drainage is not in place your driveway may settle or suffer frost heave during Winter. Make sure the contractor doing the work has the knowledge needed to get the job done correctly!

4. How Long Has The Company Been In Business And Are They Insured –

You want to make sure you find a company that is insured. Always ask for an insurance certificate before you hire any contractor to work at your home! A company that is not insured may be able to give you lower prices. But, in the end, it could lead to many problems for you (the homeowner). If a company is not insured, the homeowner is ultimately responsible for everything, such as an accident or a worker getting hurt on the job. Northern Construction has been in business since 1993 serving both Westchester and Putnam Counties. We take pride in the fact that we have our Home Improvement License in both counties and have adequate amounts of insurance coverage.

5. Is The Right Equipment Being Used –

A company paving a driveway should be working with equipment that is up-to-date and ready to get the job done. You don’t want to bring in a company that has machines that are worn out and break down easily. Machines that are on their way out could potentially slow down the process and leave you with a driveway looking worse than it did before. Northern Construction takes pride in delivering a superior finished project for each job that is done. We use “state-of-the-art” heavy-duty equipment and top-quality material to ensure impeccable results. Also, our products and services consistently exceed industry standards. Quality workmanship and exceptional service are more than a slogan at Northern Construction ….. It’s our promise to you.