Choosing the correct pavement type for your driveway or parking lot is a decision property owners shouldn’t take lightly. You should consider multiple factors, including cost, durability, and maintenance requirements. What’s more, there are two options: rigid or flexible. A professional paving company like Action Asphalt can provide you guidance and advice on the best option. This blog post will explore pavement types in detail so you can determine which one is best suited for you!
What is a Rigid Pavement?
Rigid pavement is made of concrete or cement. These surfaces are designed to bear external weight and are less vulnerable to external elements like oil and grease stains. This type of pavement is easy to maintain and repair, but because it’s breakable, you’ll need to be careful when driving or placing heavy objects on the surface.
What is a Flexible Pavement?
A flexible pavement comprises asphalt or tar-based materials that can handle heavy traffic loads by distributing weight evenly across the road surface. A flexible pavement consists of several layers. The layers are installed systemically, with the weakest layer occupying the bottom part while the more durable segments are placed at the top. Since the top layer faces the brunt of traffic load, a flexible pavement is structurally sound and less likely to collapse under pressure. The best type of flexible pavement is the one that has a thick layer of gravel beneath it, which helps with drainage in rainy seasons.
What Type Should I Choose?
When deciding between the two options, consider how much wear and tear you can expect and the weather conditions throughout the year. If you’re located in a region that gets heavy snowfall, it is best to install solid concrete since the surface will be able to withstand more weight. If your parking lot experiences heavy traffic loads, then a flexible pavement will work fine for you.
A flexible pavement is cost-efficient and does not require frequent replacement or repair. On the other hand, a rigid pavement offers an extended service life of around 30 years; however, such surfaces need maintenance to provide the desired service. When considering which kind of pavement works best for you, consider both the above options before coming to a decision. Not only do they have their own set of pros and cons, but each one has its application depending on what materials you’re using and how skillfully the contractor installs it.
If you’re looking for further insights into pavement types, you need an experienced contractor to guide you. Action Asphalt is one of the first names that should come to mind when thinking of paving in Sacramento, CA. We provide our clients with a wide range of paving services, including concrete installation and repair services. We help maximize your property’s commercial value giving you the opportunity to restore it to its pristine condition. Get a free quote now!
