Latrobe Paving Company Shares Tips to Help Homeowners and Business Owners Prolong the Life of Asphalt Parking Lots and Driveways

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) June 30, 2012

Latrobe, PA – Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the beloved Little House on the Prairie, tells about her first encounter with asphalt pavement during a wagon journey with her parents in 1894 that took them through Topeka. “In the very midst of the city, the ground was covered by some dark stuff that silenced all the wheels and muffled the sound of hoofs,” she writes.

Asphalt has played an important role in changing the landscape and history of the United States since the late 19th century. Today, this dark, resilient material covers more than 94 percent of the paved roads in America and is the popular choice for driveways, parking lots, airport runways, racetracks, and tennis courts.

“Since asphalt parking lots and driveways are flexible and strong, they are ideal for colder climates like Pittsburgh where freezing and thawing occur,” explains President of JR Paving and Construction, Morris (JR) Cooper, whose business recently completed paving jobs for Sleeping Beauty Dance Studio in Greensburg, Bobcat of Pittsburgh in Mt. Pleasant, and Meadowlands Sportsman’s Club in Claysville. “When exposed to de-icing chemicals or salt, asphalt doesn’t break down. The dark color of asphalt also helps absorb sunlight which helps melt ice and snow in the winter.”

Maintaining an asphalt driveway or parking lot can add years to the life of pavement. While asphalt may look impervious to the elements, seasonal temperature fluctuations can cause the asphalt to deteriorate. During the hot summer months, the sun can dry out the asphalt causing it to oxidize and hairline cracks to develop. Remember, the Grand Canyon was created by water. Moisture entering the cracks will erode the base, weaken structural support, cause potholes, and penetrate and undermine the sub base.

“These cracks may start out as only minor imperfections, but if left unattended, they can develop into major problems,” says JR. “Weeds force their way through the crevices widening the cracks. During winter months, water in the cracks freeze and expand the cracks even more. Failure to care for an asphalt driveway or parking lot can cost a lot more money down the road. However, with a little preventative maintenance these problems can be avoided and a homeowner or business owner’s investment will be protected.”

To ensure the desired results from an asphalt driveway or parking lot, it’s extremely important to hire a competent and experienced paving contractor for installation. The surface must be prepared properly which includes removing clay soil or topsoil and replacing with a sub base of gravel or crushed stone. A systematic program of filling cracks with suitable material and sealing the asphalt every two to three years will ensure the life of an asphalt driveway or parking lot. The sealer will help fill in cracks, provide ultraviolet protection, and help maintain the dark, black color.

With 40 years of experience, JR Paving and Construction Co., Inc. can provide the expertise to install and maintain asphalt parking lots and driveways that will last for years to come. Their attention to detail and exceptional customer service has earned them a reputation as one of the top paving companies in the Pittsburgh area. JR Paving and Construction has recently received contracts with Mt. Pleasant School District, Crown Cork and Seal USA in Connellsville, and US Auto Mart in Adamsburg. In addition, they are currently working on sealing and patching at Jefferson Hills Manor. To find out more about this outstanding company, visit their website http://www.jrpavingandconstruction.com

About JR Paving and Construction

JR Paving Company is a locally family owned and operated full service paving company. Their services include paving, tar and chipping, seal coating, striping, excavation, grading, basing, pipe and conduit installation, ditching, installation of drains and catch basins, concrete work, tie walls, tennis courts, running tracks, demolition and roofing. With 40 years experience, they handle each job as if it’s their only job. JR Paving and Construction Co., Inc. proudly serves Allegheny, Armstrong, Westmoreland, Beaver, Washington, Bedford, Fayette, Blair, Greene, Butler, Indiana, Cambria, Somerset, and Lawrence Counties.

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