Key Takeaways:
- Asphalt milling is a cost-effective option that can save time, money, and hassle. If you need new asphalt pavement, milling is the way to go.
- It is also less disruptive to traffic and can be completed in a shorter timeframe.
- Milling does not require as much labor or equipment as traditional methods such as excavating and hauling the old asphalt.
- Contact a local milling contractor to get a quote if you are considering having an asphalt surface milled.
You’ve probably seen construction crews milling around on city streets. These giant machines grind up chunks of asphalt and spit them out into waiting trucks. The process is called “milling,” a popular way to repair roads and sidewalks. But is it cost-effective? Let’s take a closer look.
What’s Asphalt Milling?
It’s a process whereby existing pavement is removed and replaced with new asphalt material. This process can be completed using cold or hot in-place recycling. Both are ways to create what is categorized as reclaimed asphalt pavement.
Cold in-place recycling involves milling the existing asphalt, mixing it with new asphalt emulsion, and then placing it back down as a new surface course.
Hot in-place recycling involves heating the current pavement material, mixing it with new asphalt, and then putting it back down as a new surface course.
Main Issues Asphalt Milling Addresses
This process is often used to address areas of pavement that are cracked, raveled, or bleeding.
- Cracking occurs when the pavement becomes dried out and brittle, causing it to fracture under the weight of traffic.
- Raveling happens when the pavement surface deteriorates, leaving a coarse, gravel-like texture.
- Bleeding occurs when bitumen, the binding agent in asphalt, oozes to the surface and creates a shiny, sticky mess.
Milling can help to repair these issues by providing a new foundation for a new layer of asphalt. In doing so, milling can extend the lifespan of pavements and improve driving conditions for motorists.
Why Is Asphalt Milling Cost-Effective?
There are many reasons why milling is a cost-effective option.
- It is less invasive than other methods of repair. That means less damage to the surrounding area, and you can complete the repair more quickly.
- In addition, milling is less likely to cause disruptions to traffic. Traditional methods like excavation can take weeks or even months to complete. This can cause major disruptions for businesses & commuters alike.
- It is also a green option. Unlike traditional methods involving excavating and disposing of asphalt, milling grinds the asphalt into small pieces you can reuse. This reduces the amount of waste going into landfills & helps preserve natural resources.
The Pros
- Asphalt milling is an excellent option for renewing your pavement because it doesn’t require total demolition. Recycling of the existing materials is done to create new asphalt. This helps reduce material costs while still providing you with a high-quality product. Since the process is quicker than traditional demolition, it also requires less labor, helping cut overall costs.
- In addition to being more cost-effective, asphalt milling is also environmentally friendly. The process of milling helps preserve natural resources. By recycling existing materials, we can reduce the amount of new materials that need to be produced. This reduces the energy and other resources required for production, resulting in a smaller carbon footprint.
- Before you can do the repaving job, your pavement doesn’t need much upkeep. Milling also preserves a surface’s strength, making repaving projects easier and quicker to complete.
- Milling is also a good choice for those who want to maintain the appearance of their property. By removing only, the damaged layer of asphalt, milling leaves the undamaged surface intact. This can help preserve the aesthetic appeal of your property while still providing the benefits of a fresh, new surface.
- Asphalt milling is a cost-effective solution for many types of asphalt repair projects. When done properly, it can extend the life of your asphalt pavement and save you money in the long run.
The Cons
Of course, there are some drawbacks to milling, as well.
- For starters, milling only provides a temporary fix. The new surface created by milling will eventually degrade and need to be replaced again in a few years.
- In addition, milling can create a very loud noise that may not be suitable for neighborhoods or business districts.
- Finally, there is the issue of aesthetics. The new surface created by milling may not be as smooth or even as the original surface, which can be unsightly.
What Equipment is Needed for Asphalt Milling? Explain the Process
This process can be completed using either a large milling machine or a smaller hand-held milling machine.
- The first step is to remove any grime & debris from the area to be milled. This includes any loose gravel, leaves, or other debris that could get caught in the milling machine.
- Once the area is clear, the operator will begin operating the milling machine. The machine will slowly move forward as it grinds away the existing asphalt surface.
- As the machine moves forward, it will create a smooth, even surface that you can use for repaving.
Related: Understanding Asphalt Paving.
Conclusion
Asphalt milling is a cost-effective way to remove existing asphalt surfaces. It is also a very efficient way to create a smooth, even surface that you can use for repaving. It is a quick and easy process that you can complete in a short amount of time.
Remember, asphalt paving is a tricky business. It’s not like laying down some concrete or bricks. There are many factors to consider when it comes to asphalt paving, and if it’s not done right, you can end up with a mess on your hands that will cost you more money in the long run.
For your next asphalt paving project, you need American Paving, serving Mint Hill, NC. We have been in the business for over 50 years, and our experienced crew knows how to do the job right – the first time.
Not only do we have much experience, but we also use top-of-the-line equipment and materials. You can trust us to deliver a quality product that will last for years.
