Not everything you hear about asphalt pavement is true.

While asphalt hasn’t always been the most reliable paving material, it has certainly come a long way in recent years and many of the stigmas about asphalt have been proven to be incorrect. Yet, outdated ideas about asphalt resurface from time to time.

We’re here to set the record straight. Let’s look at six of the myths most commonly associated with asphalt paving!

Myth #1: Asphalt Pavement Is Expensive

The truth is that asphalt pavement is so often used because it is more affordable than many other materials. Aside from gravel, asphalt is one of the more cost-effective options and is even cheaper to install than concrete, stone, and other options.

While you may pay roughly $2 – $5 per square foot of installed asphalt, that works out to be around half the cost of concrete! Plus, asphalt generally lasts longer than concrete and requires fewer repairs over the journey.

Myth #2: Asphalt Pavement Doesn’t Last Long

In the past, there may have been some level of truth to this myth. Today, however, we have new technology and more knowledge about asphalt installation and maintenance—to the point where asphalt is now highly durable and often able to outlast other paving methods.

In fact, with proper care, routine maintenance, and timely repairs, you can expect an asphalt surface to last for 10 – 15 years at minimum and up to 20 years or more.

Myth #3: Asphalt Pavement Is Hard to Repair

Asphalt pavement is actually easier to repair than many other paving materials—namely, concrete. There are all sorts of solutions that can be used to repair asphalt, from crack filling to resurfacing and more.

Particularly when asphalt receives routine maintenance, any repairs tend to be very manageable. Not to mention, most asphalt repairs are relatively affordable as well.

Myth #4: Asphalt Pavement Doesn’t Need a Foundation

Asphalt, like any paving material, requires a strong foundation if it is to last. As asphalt must be able to withstand inclement weather and pressure from heavy vehicles and machinery, the lack of a proper foundation will cause the asphalt surface to develop cracks and potholes in no time.

Myth #5: Asphalt Plants Hurt the Environment

While asphalt hasn’t always been an environmentally friendly paving option, today’s plants have upgraded their equipment and committed to better mixing methods in order to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.

Today, asphalt is widely considered to be an eco-friendly paving method. In fact, the U.S. recycles and reuses millions of tons of asphalt every year!

Myth #6: Asphalt Can Be Self-Installed

While not impossible, it’s very difficult to install asphalt yourself. Before you’re able to self-install asphalt, you’ll need to get your hands on the proper equipment and spend time practicing.

For this reason, hiring an asphalt contractor will save you both time and money, and ensure that you get a high-quality end result.

Want to see each of these myths busted in real-time? Contact the team at Danny’s Asphalt Paving for all of your commercial asphalt paving needs. We’d love to help make your next project a success!