Sustainable Asphalt Upgrades

Highly-reflective asphalt coatings will reduce heat. A reflective coating may decrease energy consumption, increase pavement lifecycles, and decrease outdoor temperatures. An asphalt paving contractor can recommend sustainable products that will support a business owner's property improvement plans.

The Composition Of Asphalt And Pavement Properties

Rock, sand, and cement are the main components found in asphalt. These materials provide asphalt with its elasticity and viscosity. Asphalt is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. In cold climates, asphalt may crack. In hot climates, asphalt may soften. The black color of asphalt absorbs sunlight. Intense sunlight that is directed at plain asphalt may increase the temperature of the pavement considerably.

The increased heat that radiates from a paved surface may make it unbearable to spend a lot of time walking or sitting on a paved surface. Because asphalt is a cost-effective product, in comparison to concrete, it has become a staple paving material in both residential and commercial settings. 

Reflective Products

Reflective products include asphalt that has been formulated with brighter-colored materials and reflective coatings. Some jurisdictions have been relying upon reflective products to combat climate change.

A contractor who installs pavement may prepare asphalt that contains a substrate or inner layer that contains concrete components. They may also feature a standard asphalt product that will bond to a reflective coating. If a contractor uses a basic asphalt mixture, they may advise a business owner to select a product that contains aluminum or another reflective material that will reduce the surface temperature of the asphalt. 

Benefits

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications are geared toward property owners who would like to implement a 'green' building or renovation project. Using environmentally safe materials to pave a parking lot can earn a property owner points that will go toward tax credits. The use of 'green' products can support a positive business image. This could benefit both a business owner and a contractor who has installed asphalt pavement.

The use of reflective materials may improve aesthetics, keep temperatures down, and improve outdoor air quality. A contractor who uses dyes to formulate reflective asphalt products may be able to customize the visual appearance of pavement. Instead of having a traditional black or grey asphalt surface installed, a property owner can hand-select what color they would like pavement to be. Brighter colors of pavement can draw attention to an outdoor area and make it look inviting to those who visit the premises.

For more information, contact an asphalt paving contractor in your area.