What is Asphalt Milling?

Depending on your project, traditional gravel might be a possible consideration. As with anything in life, there are pros and cons with using gravel. When weighing them out, if the “cons” list is getting a little long, it might be time to consider asphalt millings as an alternative over gravel.

So, what is asphalt milling? Well, this is basically the process of removing part of the surface of a paved area, and then grinding it up to be used again. (Essentially, this is like recycling for pavement.) In some cases, we remove just enough thickness to smooth out a parking lots surface. At other times, this is done to fully remove the pavement. Now, we can certainly repave an existing surface, but there are various reasons using asphalt milling makes more sense for the project.

Some of these reasons include:

• Cost – As we briefly noted, asphalt millings are former asphalt projects that have been crushed back down. If we are using this in place of gravel, no new materials need to be transported, which saves money on the current project. Also, there are no new materials needed, so this can be a very economical choice.
• Sustainability – If your project has LEED considerations, or you are concerned about the sustainability of your project, you should know that this can help you earn LEED credits. Asphalt millings are long-lasting and eco-friendly, which will go a long way towards your LEED certification. Additionally, certain projects—including commercial parking lots—can even be potentially eligible for tax credits when using asphalt millings.
• Maintenance-free – Naturally, you want something that will save you time in the long run. To that end, asphalt millings require no resurfacing, refinishing, or replacing. Instead of weakening over time, it will harden and become stronger. This makes it more durable, but it also produces less mud and dust (unlike with gravel), which means less cleanup needed by you in your home or business.
• Ideal for Our Weather – In West Michigan, our winters are just a little more severe than the ones they get down south. With that being the case, it is always important to find material that can withstand our winters. Asphalt gravel from milling stands up to the toughest of weather situations, it also helps with faster snow melting and reduces the amount of ice that can otherwise build up.

Recycled asphalt has many benefits and can be used in a variety of different contexts, including those projects where you might otherwise consider using stone gravel or hot asphalt. If you are looking for a cost-effective material that also comes with environmentally-friendly benefits, then asphalt millings might be what you’re looking for. Should this be the case, call Stripe A Lot today at 1-800-BLACKTOP (or 616-772-2559) and have us give you a FREE ESTIMATE!