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Can Extreme Heat Affect an Indy Asphalt Sealcoating Application?

Indy asphalt sealcoating is a must-do form of preventative maintenance that can help your pavement get through the summer unscathed. But what about summertime application? Extreme heat can significantly impact the sealcoating process, and failing to consider its effects could result in subpar results. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Does Temperature Matter for Asphalt Sealcoating?

Asphalt sealcoating is possible through the process of evaporation. The product that asphalt sealcoating contractors apply to your pavement is an asphalt emulsion containing around 60 percent water by volume. As the sealer cures, the water content evaporates, allowing the protective emulsion within it to bond to your pavement.

Because temperature directly affects the rate of evaporation, it’s an essential factor that sealcoating companies must consider before completing a job.

Other weather conditions matter, too. High humidity levels can also interfere with evaporation and curing. Meanwhile, precipitation can wash the sealer away before it has the chance to cure. Asphalt sealcoating contractors must monitor the forecast to ensure that conditions are suitable for this job.

What Could Happen If Asphalt Companies Ignore High Temperatures?

When sealcoating companies ignore inclement weather, you won’t get the high-quality results you want. The biggest concern with excessive heat is a phenomenon called flash curing. Flash curing happens when the sealer dries too rapidly. In some cases, the pavement will be so hot that the product dries in mere seconds after application.

The problem with flash curing is that the sealer is unable to penetrate the pores of your asphalt. The result is a weak bond that doesn’t last. Sometimes, flash curing can cause asphalt sealcoating to dry unevenly. A dry top and bottom layer can trap moisture in the middle, preventing it from curing at all. These issues can cause disastrous results. In addition to creating an unsightly finish, your pavement will lack the necessary protection to last.

What Are the Ideal Conditions for Indy Asphalt Sealcoating?

Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating companies need warm and dry weather. Temperatures around 70 degrees are best, but most asphalt sealcoating products will work fine between 50 and 90 degrees. It’s when the temperatures approach the 90-degree mark that flash curing becomes a significant risk.

Asphalt sealcoating companies will also pay attention to the humidity levels, aiming for application days when the relative humidity is below 50 percent. Of course, there should also be zero chance of precipitation. Good conditions are necessary beyond the application date. Because sealcoating takes up to 48 hours to cure, the weather should be reliably warm and dry for several days after application.

What Can Sealcoating Companies Do to Beat the Heat?

Asphalt sealcoating companies can work around high temperatures in many ways if rescheduling isn’t an option. The first is to cool the pavement down with an initial coat of watered-down sealer. Increasing the water content for that first coat can cool the asphalt while compensating for flash curing. Afterward, Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating companies can proceed with standard application.

Another option is to fog the pavement, which involves misting it with water. The high temperatures cause the water to evaporate quickly, cooling the pavement in the process. Finally, sealcoating companies can utilize sealer additives. Some sealcoating additives can alter the rate of evaporation, thereby circumventing issues such as flash curing.

Black Hawk Paving sets the bar for other asphalt sealcoating contractors in the Indianapolis area. We’ve served commercial clients like you for five decades. In that time, we’ve perfected our approach to pavement maintenance, allowing us to overcome any challenge while performing work quickly and efficiently to minimize delays for your property. In addition to sealcoating, Black Hawk Paving is available for new paving, repairs, crack routing and filling, concrete paving, warehouse striping, and more.

Call Black Hawk Paving at (463) 225-0400 to discuss your needs in greater detail and receive a complimentary project quote. You can also use our online form or reach our team via email at info@blackhawkpaving.com.

5 Reasons Why Indianapolis Paving Contractors Can Benefit Your Business

As a commercial property owner or manager, developing a trusted relationship with an experienced paving contractor can benefit you in countless ways. Asphalt paving is a sizeable investment that requires ongoing care and attention. Indianapolis paving contractors can offer a range of services that directly benefit your business and its bottom line. Here are five ways working with reputable contractors can help you.

How Can Paving Contractors Create a Safer Environment for Employees and Visitors?

Safety should always be a concern. Not only do accidents and injuries that occur on your property impact your reputation as a business, but they could also lead to liability concerns and legal troubles. Fortunately, Indianapolis paving companies can enhance safety in many ways.

Having asphalt paving already in place makes a significant difference. Contractors can design, engineer, and lay asphalt to create smooth, reliable surfaces that benefit both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Paving companies can also provide ongoing maintenance, addressing potholes, cracks, and other hazards to ensure long-term safety.

Can Paving Companies Boost My Curb Appeal?

Excellent curb appeal influences what people think about your business. It can even impact employee morale and contribute to a visitor’s initial impression. No one wants to drive onto bare soil or an asphalt surface riddled with defects. Whether your commercial property already has pavement or not, paving contractors can ensure your surfaces always put your best foot forward.

If you need new asphalt paving, seasoned paving companies will bring your vision to life. Then, throughout its life, paving contractors can perform repairs, provide ongoing maintenance, and complete transformative projects to ensure your property always looks its best.

In What Ways Can Indianapolis Paving Companies Help Me Save in the Long-Term?

Paving contractors in Indianapolis can do more than you think to help you save over the long haul. Many view hiring paving contractors as an unnecessary expense, but professional care and guidance matter. Paving companies in Indianapolis provide care throughout your pavement’s lifespan, helping to mitigate the risk of severe damage, early deterioration, and premature reconstruction.

More importantly, they can provide ongoing inspections that help you catch issues early. Having the seasoned eyes of asphalt experts assessing the quality of your pavement every year ensures you’re always providing the care it needs, even as its changes evolve.

Can Paving Companies Protect My Investment?

Another benefit of working with paving contractors in Indianapolis is that it enhances the longevity of your investment. Properly constructed asphalt paving can last many decades. However, it takes considerable attention to reach that milestone.

Your pavement will need annual crack repair, prompt attention for unexpected damage, regular sealcoating, and other maintenance services. Not only can paving contractors in Indianapolis handle those duties, but they can also perform preventative care and inspections. That proactive approach that paving companies in Indianapolis take will prevent damage from taking hold, giving your pavement everything it needs to last as long as possible.

Is It Possible for Indianapolis Paving Contractors to Reduce Downtime for My Business?

Finally, let’s talk downtime. Any service involving your asphalt paving has the potential to disrupt your business. But when you work with skilled paving contractors in Indianapolis, that doesn’t have to be the case. Paving companies with experience performing logistically sensitive work can complete projects without causing delays and costly downtime. They work on your schedule, tailored to your unique needs.

That means your pavement gets all the attention it requires without compromising your ability to operate as a business or serve customers.

At Black Hawk Paving, we understand how important it is to find paving contractors in Indianapolis that you can count on. We bring five decades of experience to your property and an unwavering dedication to quality. Our team is well-trained to handle commercial projects of any size and scope, offering a comprehensive range of services that benefit you and your investment. You can turn to us for asphalt paving, repairs, sealcoating, crack routing and filling, concrete paving, warehouse striping, ADA compliance, grading, excavation, and more.

Don’t settle for mediocre. Black Hawk Paving has the proven experience to exceed your expectations. Call Black Hawk Paving today at (463) 225-0400, email info@blackhawkpaving.com, or use our online form to reach our team and receive your complimentary project quote.

Shortcuts That Indianapolis Sealcoating Companies Should Never Take

Everyone’s guilty of cutting corners and taking shortcuts at some point in their life to save time or money. However, when it comes to asphalt sealcoating, there are many shortcuts that contractors should never take! Indianapolis sealcoating companies offer a valuable service that can help keep your pavement looking its best while maximizing its longevity. However, sealcoating companies that skimp on quality can do more harm than good, ultimately costing you more in the long run. Here are some of the shortcuts that sealcoating companies in Indianapolis should never take with your project.

In What Ways Less Experienced Sealcoating Companies in Indianapolis Cut Corners When Preparing Sealer?

Indianapolis sealcoating is a process that involves applying correctly prepared sealer to every square inch of your asphalt to protect it from damaging factors. Contractors can use coal tar or asphalt emulsions for asphalt sealing projects. Regardless of the situation, these sealers require proper preparation. Sealcoating companies must prepare the sealer according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, which typically involve adding a specific amount of sand and water.

Eyeballing those amounts is a huge mistake. More unscrupulous sealcoating companies may ignore manufacturer directions entirely to save money. For example, adding more water and forgoing sand altogether is a common cost-cutting measure. The problem is that diluted asphalt sealing products provide lackluster protection, and a lack of sand harms overall durability and traction.

Do Indianapolis Sealcoating Companies Need a Variety of Tools to Complete a Job?

Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating companies should arrive at the job site equipped with the necessary tools, equipment, and labor to complete the project. Sealcoating companies may try to cut corners and save money by bringing only a sprayer to your property. The problem is that sprayers can’t get into tight spots. Attempting to seal those areas with a sprayer will result in a significant mess that can damage nearby properties or buildings.

Some contractors may also arrive with a team that’s far too small for your needs. It takes more than a couple of people to do asphalt sealing on an expansive parking lot! With fewer workers on site, projects take significantly longer, leading to more downtime for your business.

What Happens If A Contractors Rush Surface Prep?

Sealcoating requires ample surface prep. Your pavement must be clean and dry before sealcoating commences. Contractors should also handle all repairs, including filling and sealing cracks, patching potholes, and correcting surface defects.

If your pavement isn’t properly repaired or prepped, the asphalt sealing product can’t cure and bond to the surface. Sealcoating companies must take time to sweep away dirt, pretreat stains, and clean the asphalt if necessary. Cutting corners during the surface prep stage will lead to low-quality results that don’t last.

What Mistakes Can Sealcoating Companies Make During Application?

In addition to not bringing the right tools and the right amount of labor, Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating companies can cut corners during the application process. The right way to do Indianapolis sealcoating is to apply multiple thin coats. Of course, that takes time, and some contractors will try to cut back on the time spent on your site by applying a single, thick coat.

When applied in this manner, your sealcoating will not cure properly. It’ll take ages to dry, and the surface will likely cure faster than the material below, resulting in wheel tracking and eventual peeling. The finish won’t look good, and the money you spend on asphalt sealcoating will go to waste.

How Does the Weather Impact Asphalt Sealcoating?

Another shortcut that an Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating company should never make is ignoring inclement weather. Mother Nature can be unpredictable, but sealcoating companies in Indianapolis must adapt. Contractors should never apply sealer to your pavement if it’s raining or there’s a chance of inclement weather in the 48 hours that follow your application day. If the forecast takes a turn, reputable companies will reschedule. It can be frustrating, but rain and sealer do not mix.

Attempting to complete the job in bad weather will cause more problems than you bargained for. Always reschedule around the forecast and only perform Indianapolis sealcoating when conditions are warm and dry.

Let Black Hawk Paving handle all your Indianapolis sealcoating needs. We never cut corners or take shortcuts that could sacrifice the quality of work we deliver. Your satisfaction comes first, and our team works diligently to do things right from start to finish. We specialize in commercial asphalt, so we have the expertise to meet your unique needs. We’ve been in business since 1975 and are proud to offer a range of services, including new asphalt paving, repairs, crack routing, concrete paving, warehouse striping, ADA compliance, and more.

Get your free quote today by calling Black Hawk Paving today at (463)225-0400. You can also email the team at info@blackhawkpaving.com or use our online form for a callback.

How to Find The Right Asphalt Paving Budget in Indy

Asphalt paving is a sizable investment–There’s no denying that. However, it can pay off handsomely over the long run, providing decades of reliability to your property. For new paving projects, developing a budget can be a challenge. Here are a few factors to consider when settling on an asphalt paving budget that can get you what you need.

Can the Condition of My Property Affect My Paving Budget?

One of the first things to think about when creating a budget for asphalt paving is the condition of your property. Do you have any existing pavement? If so, what state is it in? Can your existing pavement be salvaged? Can Indianapolis asphalt paving companies reuse the existing foundation, or do they need to remove it entirely before proceeding with new paving? The answers to those questions matter because it impacts the amount of work that paving contractors must complete.

Paving contractors in Indianapolis should visit your property for a full site assessment. They can use that time to understand the needs of your project, allowing them to provide more accurate quotes.

Another thing to consider is the quality of the soil where you intend to lay new asphalt paving. The soil beneath your pavement will impact load-bearing capabilities and influence the engineering that asphalt companies must do. Paving contractors should take soil samples to understand its qualities. Most properties need some soil amendments before subbase preparations can begin. The extent of that work will affect your asphalt paving budget.

Do Contractors in Indianapolis Consider My Intended Use?

How do you intend to use your new pavement? That’s a question that asphalt companies in Indianapolis need as much information about as possible. Asphalt companies engineer surfaces to support intended traffic. The needs of a standard low-traffic parking lot are much different than those of an industrial surface that must accommodate heavy-duty equipment and vehicles. Everything, from the type of asphalt paving mixes used to the overall thickness and subbase preparations, changes.

Be transparent about how you plan to use your pavement. Applying more weight than what your asphalt surface is engineered to hold can lead to disaster. Work closely with asphalt companies to ensure the engineering meets the mark. That information will help you and paving contractors determine the cost of your project.

How Does the Overall Scope of My Project Impact My Asphalt Paving Budget?

What does your paving project entail? We’ve already discussed potential cost factors, such as the condition of your existing soil or pavement. However, asphalt paving companies can approach projects in many different ways. There’s traditional paving, which involves building a new surface from the ground up. Asphalt paving companies can also reconstruct or resurface existing pavement. The techniques employed by Indianapolis asphalt paving companies will impact the amount of labor involved, thereby changing the total costs.

You should also discuss the overall size and design of your pavement with paving contractors in Indianapolis. Larger surfaces require more materials and labor to create, driving up costs. However, the same applies to complex shapes and designs.

What If My Property Needs Additional Work Before Asphalt?

Finally, work with asphalt companies in Indianapolis to understand the type of work that needs to occur before asphalt paving can begin. Subbase preparation is standard for new projects, allowing paving contractors to build up a solid foundation that lasts. However, that may not be all that your property requires.

Sometimes, it’s necessary to excavate and grade properties to create a slope that efficiently manages water runoff. Indianapolis asphalt paving companies may also recommend drainage improvements. In addition to grading, you might benefit from catch basins and additional drainage infrastructure. Those additions will increase the cost of the paving project, but they can also prevent long-term damage and improve the longevity of the final product.

Black Hawk Paving is among the most trusted asphalt companies in Indianapolis. We’ve served clients for 50 years, specializing in logistically sensitive commercial and industrial work. It’s our mission to help clients like you bring their visions to life accurately, on time, and within budget. We work closely with you to accommodate your busy schedule. No project is too big or too small. In addition to being one of the best asphalt paving companies in the area, we offer a range of services, including repairs, sealcoating, maintenance, concrete work, warehouse striping, grading, excavation, and more. We can also manage multi-property portfolios and complete large-scale projects.

Let us show you what we can do. Call Black Hawk Paving today at (463)225-0400, email info@blackhawkpaving.com, or use our online form to get in touch and receive your free quote.

What Factors Determine The Cost of Asphalt Sealcoating in Indianapolis

Asphalt sealcoating in Indianapolis is a service you can’t afford to forgo. Regular sealcoating protects your investment, shielding surfaces from rain, sun damage, corrosion, and other damaging elements. But how much does it cost? No two properties are alike. Therefore, costs can vary. To understand how much you should budget for sealcoating, here are several important cost factors that Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating companies use to develop accurate quotes.

How Does Size and Design Affect Sealcoating in Indianapolis?

Asphalt sealcoating companies should visit your property to see your pavement in person. The size and overall design of a paved surface have a significant impact on sealcoating costs. Larger commercial parking lots have substantially more square footage to cover than smaller residential driveways. A larger surface area requires more asphalt sealing products, which increases the expenses for contractors. Furthermore, larger paved areas require more time and labor to protect.

Design factors also come into play during sealcoating projects. Complex shapes and obstacles, such as landscape islands, often require more attention. Covering an expansive area is easy with sprayers, but attractive design features need more finesse and hand labor to work around.

Do Sealcoating Companies Consider Age and Condition?

All surfaces need some preparation before asphalt sealcoating. Asphalt sealcoating companies will charge more for those those that need considerable prep work. Sealers will only bond to clean, dry, and smooth pavement. Therefore, filthy surfaces overtaken by weeds need more work before application can start. The same applies to asphalt that’s damaged or riddled with cracks.

Sealcoating companies can perform the necessary repairs and prep work, but that extra time and labor will increase costs.

Why Is Intended Traffic a Cost Factor?

Sealcoating companies should ask you about the types of traffic you receive. That’s because asphalt sealcoating can wear down more quickly if subjected to significant wear. A reputable asphalt sealing contractor will apply as many coats as necessary to provide exceptional durability and longevity. Light-traffic parking lots may benefit from two coats. Meanwhile, surfaces that accommodate heavy-duty vehicles in industrial settings may require more.

Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating companies often apply more coats in areas where vehicles frequently stop and turn. That additional wheel activity can deteriorate your asphalt sealcoating. Good examples of sections that require more protection include entrances and exits, pedestrian crossing zones, and tight curves.

What If I Need to Avoid Property Disruptions When Investing in Asphalt Sealing?

Asphalt sealcoating can be disruptive to your property and business. During application, sealcoating companies must keep pedestrian and vehicle traffic out of the area. Furthermore, your pavement must remain clear during the curing process, which can take up to 48 hours.

Fortunately, reputable asphalt sealcoating companies can work with you to minimize issues. Logistically sensitive work may involve applying sealer during off hours or treating your pavement in sections. Regardless of the circumstances, the additional labor and time will increase asphalt sealcoating costs.

Black Hawk Paving is a premier provider of asphalt sealcoating in Indianapolis and the surrounding communities. We’ve spent 50 years earning the trust of our clients, and we’re ready to do the same for you. As an experienced contractor, we have the expertise to meet your needs, regardless of their complexity. You can turn to us for all your paving needs. We’re available for sealcoating, new asphalt paving, repairs, crack filling, concrete paving, warehouse striping, and more.

Get your free quote today and learn more about what we do by calling Black Hawk Paving at (463)225-0400. You can also submit your information through our online form or email the team at info@blackhawkpaving.com.

Indy Asphalt Paving Companies And Red Flags – What To Look For

There’s no shortage of Indy asphalt paving companies that want your business, whether it’s a new paving project or ongoing maintenance. But can you trust the contractors you hire? Choosing an asphalt contractor in Indianapolis is a big decision you shouldn’t take lightly. In this blog, we’ll review a few red flags that can help you separate reliable contractors from those you can trust to deliver.

Is It Normal for Indy Asphalt Paving Companies to Ask for Upfront Payments?

Head for the hills if an asphalt contractor in Indianapolis expects you to pay for a project upfront. It’s normal for contractors to ask for a depot or a portion of the total cost to perform asphalt repair and paving. However, it’s not normal to request the total amount. If that’s the case, you may be dealing with a scammer.

Unfortunately, scam artists like to pose as legitimate contractors to fool unsuspecting property owners and managers. They make tall promises, offering the asphalt services you need. After they receive the money upfront, they disappear!

What Should I Expect When Receiving Quotes for Asphalt Repair or Paving?

All asphalt paving projects are unique. New paving has specific engineering to meet your needs, and asphalt repair projects vary in complexity. While some companies can provide rough estimates over the phone, quotes should be comprehensive.

Contractors should visit your property to assess your needs, taking time to develop a precise quote with detailed line items covering materials, labor, etc.

Is Poor Communication a Bad Sign for Indy Asphalt Paving Companies?

Whether calling contractors for Indianapolis IN asphalt repair, resurfacing, or fresh paving, pay attention to how well representatives communicate. If they leave your calls unanswered or don’t answer your questions, look elsewhere for service. Asphalt projects are complex. There are many moving parts, and you want to stay in the loop throughout.

If a company isn’t responsive now, imagine how difficult it will be to contact them once your project begins.

What If a Company Can’t Provide References for Asphalt Paving in Indianapolis IN?

Always request references for Indianapolis IN asphalt repair, maintenance, and paving. References are an excellent way to understand a company’s capabilities better. You can speak to references to learn about their experience and get a better idea of what it’s like to work with a specific asphalt contractor in Indianapolis. Calling references is a critical part of your due diligence.

If a company offering asphalt repair or paving services refuses to supply references, it could mean they’re hiding something.

Should I Pay Attention to Licensing and Insurance?

Contractors need an appropriate license to perform asphalt paving Indianapolis IN. The same applies to asphalt repair. The state of Indiana doesn’t require a license for general contractors, but the City of Indianapolis does. Every contractor doing Indianapolis IN asphalt repair, asphalt paving, and land alterations must have a license from the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services (DBNS).

Remember to request proof of insurance. Working with uninsured companies is risky, potentially leading to a financial and liability nightmare. Think of licensing and insurance as proof of legitimacy, and avoid any contractor that doesn’t have them.

Let Black Hawk Paving handle all your asphalt paving, repair, and maintenance needs. We have over five decades of proven experience in this industry and are the go-to contractor for property owners throughout the Midwest. We know how to do asphalt right and work closely with our clients to ensure we always deliver outstanding results. Black Hawk Paving is available for new paving, asphalt repair, sealcoating, crack routing and filling, concrete paving, ADA compliance, and more.

Get your free quote for asphalt paving in Indianapolis IN today by calling Black Hawk Paving at (463)225-0400. You can also email us at info@blackhawkpaving.com or submit your information through our online form for a callback.

What to Expect from a Reputable Indianapolis Paving Company

Planning a new asphalt paving project can be overwhelming. It’s a sizable investment with many moving parts and countless ways things can go wrong. Who you hire to do the job can make all the difference. The right Indianapolis paving company will handle every detail from start to finish while making your experience as a property owner stress-free. Let’s look at what you can expect from reputable Indianapolis asphalt paving companies and how they differ from amateurs.

How Can Years of Experience Set a Paving Company Apart from Others?

It doesn’t matter what type of paving you’re looking to get. You should always work with a paving contractor that has proven industry experience. Asphalt paving is no easy job, and a lack of knowledge can lead to disastrous results that cost you big for decades. Always inquire about licensing, insurance, and additional credentials from the asphalt paving companies you hire.

Another way to easily differentiate seasoned paving contractors from less experienced ones is to ask questions. Reputable companies won’t hesitate to discuss their methods, show off their portfolio of work, and walk you through the process. They understand how daunting asphalt paving projects can be and want to reassure you that you’re in good hands. Trusted companies aren’t wishy-washy during your initial consultation. Instead, they provide comprehensive information and answer all questions to prove their expertise.

How Vital Is Good Communication When Completing New Paving?

Staying in the loop is vital to the success of any paving project. Your asphalt paving company doesn’t have to bore you with the minutiae. However, they should provide regular updates and alert you to any issues that arise. Reputable Indianapolis paving companies will work closely with you to better understand your needs, develop solutions that work, and remain available to address your questions or concerns.

Poor communication is a major red flag. With an investment as substantial as new paving in Indianapolis, you must work with a paving contractor committed to being your partner in this process. That means strong communication and complete transparency from start to finish.

Will an Experienced Indianapolis Paving Company Offer Flexibility?

Finally, you can expect great flexibility from a well-respected asphalt paving company. Any paving in Indianapolis is a big job that can potentially disrupt your property and business. Many commercial properties can’t shut down for days at a time as asphalt paving companies work. Doing so would negatively impact the bottom line.

That’s why trusted Indianapolis asphalt paving companies are flexible enough to work around your busy schedule. They can take a logistically sensitive approach, working with you to provide service on your terms, not vice versa. A superb asphalt paving company will have the means to complete projects based on your unique needs and situation.

Black Hawk Paving is among the Midwest’s most trusted asphalt paving companies. We’ve been in this business since 1975, completing projects of all magnitudes. Because we’re one of only Indianapolis asphalt paving companies specializing in commercial projects, we have unique insight and capabilities that others can offer. We have the equipment and flexibility to complete projects to the highest standards, ensuring your investment goes far. You can turn to Black Hawk Paving for all your asphalt needs, including new paving, repairs, sealcoating, crack routing and filling, warehouse striping, ADA compliance, and more. We’re also available for concrete paving, grading, and excavation.

Let us show you why we’re the go-to contractor for paving in Indianapolis. Call Black Hawk Paving at (463)225-0400 to get your free quote today. You can also email info@blackhawkpaving.com or use our online form to connect.

Top Five Indianapolis Sealcoating Tips for Spring

Are you looking for a way to keep your parking lot, driveway, or loading dock in good shape? If so, Indianapolis sealcoating is the service you’re looking for. Asphalt sealcoating is a form of preventative care that can protect your pavement from the effects of sun exposure, harsh weather, road chemicals, and more. Contractors recommend getting it regularly for maximum protection and pavement longevity. In this blog, we’ll explore some need-to-follow tips for ultimate sealcoating success.

How Often Do I Need Sealcoating?

Asphalt sealcoating in Indianapolis isn’t a service you should get just once. It’s a form of preventative care your pavement needs throughout life. One-off sealing won’t help you prolong longevity or avoid damage. Fortunately, sealcoating companies are pros at providing this service regularly when you need it most.

Sealcoating contractors recommend getting service every three to five years. The exact timing will vary based on the level of exposure your pavement has to the elements, the amount of traffic it receives, its age, and more. The best way to develop a schedule that works for your needs is to get annual inspections from a trustworthy sealcoating contractor.

Why Should I Get an Inspection Before Seal coating in Indianapolis?

Sealcoating companies don’t just perform inspections to inform you when it’s time for reapplication. They also use these assessments to understand your pavement’s needs, ensuring they provide the best care possible prior to Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating.

Sealcoating isn’t a fix-all solution to damage. For the best results, you must invest in repair services before sealing. Have contractors fill and seal cracks, address surface defects, and patch potholes. Once that damage cures, your pavement is ready for sealing.

How Important Is Surface Preparation?

Successful asphalt sealcoating in Indianapolis hinges on proper surface prep. You see, the sealers asphalt contractors use will only bond to clean and dry pavement. A layer of grime, overgrown vegetation, and oil slicks will cause the sealer to flake and peel away.

Sealcoating companies should prepare your pavement based on its needs. Once again, the inspection they perform will lead the way. Generally, surface prep for sealcoating in Indianapolis involves picking up trash, sweeping away dirt, pre-treating stains, and washing the surface.

How Does the Quality of the Sealer Impact Results?

Low-quality sealers don’t last. It’s as simple as that! Contractors use asphalt emulsions when sealing paved surfaces. High-quality sealers contain more bitumen, resulting in better coverage, a richer finish, and more protection.

In addition to the quality of the sealer itself, ask your sealcoating contractor about how they prepare it. All sealers need preparation, which typically involves adding water and sand. Sealcoating companies that don’t skimp on the sand provide better results with greater traction and longevity.

Can the Right Application Techniques Affect Indianapolis Sealcoating?

Asphalt sealcoating in Indianapolis looks simple. However, it takes great skill to do it correctly. Case in point: Application techniques. Inexperienced sealcoating companies may try to cut corners and rush jobs by applying a single thick coat. However, experienced sealcoating contractors know that’s a big mistake.

Proper application requires multiple thin coats to build up protection. Thicker coats won’t cure properly, causing the cured sealer to wear faster.

Ready to see the finest sealcoating in Indianapolis that money can buy? Turn to Black Hawk Paving. When we visit your property for service, we bring over five decades of real-world experience. We’ve been in this business for a long time, equipping us with the expertise to do things right. Our team never sacrifices quality. Instead, we work with you, utilize the highest-quality materials, and employ proven application techniques to deliver results that shine. We’re available for all your paving, maintenance, and repair needs. Our services include new paving, repairs, crack routing and filling, concrete paving, warehouse striping, ADA compliance, and more.

Get your free quote for Indianapolis asphalt sealcoating today by calling Black Hawk Paving at (463)225-0400. Our team is also ready to discuss your needs after you submit your information through our online form or email info@blackhawkpaving.com.

Can Asphalt Repairs In Indianapolis Be Done in Rainy Weather?

When damage affects your pavement, prompt asphalt repairs in Indianapolis are important. Contractors recommend getting professional repairs as soon as possible to prevent the problem from worsening while mitigating the risk of additional issues. But what if rain gets in the way of your asphalt repair plans? Can asphalt repair companies work in rainy conditions?

Is It Better to Wait Until the Weather Clears to Perform Asphalt Repairs in Indianapolis?

Generally, it’s best to delay Indianapolis asphalt repair when it rains. While contractors can use specialty repair compounds that allow them to work in inclement weather, those asphalt repairs are temporary at best. To provide long-lasting repair solutions, contractors must wait until the weather is clear and the site is dry.

It doesn’t matter whether contractors are using asphalt crack filler to mend voids or doing an asphalt patch to correct a pothole. Attempting to repair asphalt in the rain can lead to disastrous results. As a result, experienced asphalt repair companies will be mindful of the weather forecast, schedule service appointments when conditions are ideal, and reschedule visits if rain makes a surprise appearance.

How Can Rainy Weather Ruin Asphalt Crack Filler and Patching Compounds?

There are a few reasons why doing an asphalt repair in the rain is a big mistake. One is that water doesn’t mix well with the products contractors use for repairs. Asphalt patching compounds and hot asphalt contain oil. The same goes for asphalt crack filler. Bitumen, a petroleum byproduct, is the basis of all asphalt paving. It holds the aggregates together, gives asphalt its deep black color, and makes it water-resistant.

As the old saying goes, water and oil don’t mix! Contractors can make perfect asphalt repairs. But when rain falls on the products used, they can’t cure properly. Instead, water forces the oil in the repair materials to rise to the surface. When that happens, the repair can’t cure properly. Holes, cracks, and craters will form. In addition to creating an unsightly finish, the asphalt repair won’t last.

What Other Problems Can Arise When Performing Asphalt Repairs in Indianapolis During Rainy Conditions?

Another problem with doing Indianapolis asphalt repair in rainy weather is the risk of water intrusion. One of the biggest reasons that asphalt repair companies recommend prompt service is to lower the risk of water penetrating the surface and wreaking havoc on the foundation. But here’s the thing: Doing repairs in the rain almost guarantees that’ll happen.

That’s especially true when completing an asphalt patch. Asphalt patching often requires contractors to cut around damage, removing several inches of material. Sometimes, asphalt repair companies must remove material down to the foundation, exposing the subgrade below. Asphalt patching in the rain is like inviting water to seep in. It significantly increases the chances of subgrade erosion, which could eventually lead to structural integrity problems.

Even if contractors perform the asphalt repairs without issue, trapped water could freeze and expand during the winter, resulting in severe cracking, new potholes, asphalt patch failure, and structural failure.

Let the experts at Black Hawk Paving handle all your Indianapolis asphalt repair needs. With five decades of experience and counting, we’re equipped to tackle any repair project. We use the best materials, employ tried and true techniques, and go above and beyond to ensure beautiful, long-lasting results. That applies to all our services, including new asphalt paving, repairs, sealcoating, grading and excavation, warehouse striping, and more. No matter your needs, our team is ready to work with you and complete your project while minimizing disruptions to your property.

Get your free quote today by calling Black Hawk Paving at (463)225-0400, email info@blackhawkpaving.com, or use our online form.

Asphalt Paving: Temperature & Timing

Asphalt is among the most popular materials for roads, parking lots, and other paved surfaces worldwide. It’s cost-effective, highly workable, and easy to maintain. However, paving companies must consider a few important factors throughout a project. Whether performing asphalt repair or laying new asphalt paving, timing and temperature are crucial. In this guide, you’ll learn more about how asphalt paving temperature and timing can impact the final product.

How Hot Is Indianapolis Paving?

While contractors can use cold mixes for temporary asphalt repair, hot asphalt is the standard. Hot mixes for new paving and asphalt repair arrive at the job site heated to between 275 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

Heat makes asphalt workable. Asphalt is a composite material that contains aggregates bound together by bitumen, a byproduct of crude oil that solidifies when it’s cool. Therefore, paving companies must keep the mix hot to ensure the bitumen remains fluid enough to remain workable.

Why Does Temperature Matter?

Those high temperatures are important for asphalt paving in Indianapolis because they make compaction possible. As mentioned, heat keeps the bitumen binder in asphalt paving fluid, which is crucial for compaction.

Compaction increases the density of the paved surface. It removes air voids from the mix, creating a dense, stable, long-lasting paved surface strong enough to withstand decades of pressure. Asphalt paving companies use heavy-duty rollers to compact the material after laying it. Teams must work fast, too. Once laid, the hot asphalt mix will start to cool. The binder will begin to solidify, so contractors must work to compact it quickly to ensure a great final product.

What Are the Ideal Asphalt Paving Temperatures?

Air and ground temperatures matter because they can affect the rate at which asphalt paving in Indianapolis cools once it leaves the transport tanker truck. The cooler the surrounding temperatures, the faster it solidifies. Asphalt paving companies will pay close attention to the forecast and often use infrared thermometers to measure ground temperatures before working.

For successful asphalt paving in Indianapolis, ambient and ground temperatures must be above 50 degrees. Any cooler and asphalt paving companies won’t have enough time to lay and compact the material before it gets too hard.

How Does Timing Affect Indianapolis Asphalt Paving?

Indianapolis asphalt paving projects are a delicate dance of managing temperatures and working quickly. Timing is a critical piece of the puzzle. You already know that hot asphalt is around 300 degrees Fahrenheit when it arrives at the job site. Once teams start to lay it, it begins to cool, so there’s no waiting around to compact the material. Paving companies must begin compacting the Indianapolis asphalt paving immediately.

The material must remain between 220 and 290 degrees Fahrenheit to stay workable. If it falls below 185 degrees, it becomes too stiff to compact properly. Attempting to roll stiff asphalt paving will ravel. The surface will be rough and susceptible to water penetration, resulting in a high risk of structural damage before it is even ready for traffic.

Paving companies need to be mindful of timing from start to finish, working strategically to lay and compact the Indianapolis asphalt paving before air and ground temperatures cool it to the point of being unworkable.

At Black Hawk Paving, we understand the complexities of asphalt paving in Indianapolis. With five decades of experience in the paving industry, we’ve seen it all. We apply our expertise to work efficiently, do things right, and deliver exceptional results. You can count on us to handle all your paving, repair, and maintenance needs. We’re available for new paving, repairs, sealcoating, crack routing and filling, grading and excavation, concrete repair, and more. Whether you have a small-scale project or logistically sensitive needs, we have what it takes to get the job done while exceeding your expectations.

Call Black Hawk Paving today at (463)225-0400, email info@blackhawkpaving.com, or use our online form to request a free project quote.