Asphalt Paving: 6 Important Budget-Saving Tips

Compared to cement, asphalt paving is more economical and long-lasting. That’s why more and more property owners choose asphalt for their driveways, private roads, and outdoor parking spaces. But, like cement, you will still spend money on asphalt paving maintenance and repair.

If you’re a property manager with a limited budget or a property owner with a tight budget, you will need to be smart about investing in asphalt paving. Eventually, signs of wear and tear will need to be repaired, which will cost you money.

Fortunately, there are ways to save money on various aspects of asphalt paving – from installation, maintenance, and repairs. 

6 Budget-Saving Tips for Asphalt Paving

When you have a tight budget, every dollar should count. So here are ways you can save up on asphalt paving without sacrificing quality.

• Weigh your options. Asphalt paving can last up to 20 years when installed correctly and properly maintained. The upfront expenses might be significant, especially if it’s a complete installation, but the expected lifespan and benefits will be worth it. However, it would help if you also weighed your options. Sometimes, you can put off the complete installation, and additional paving may work.
• Invest in preventive and routine maintenance. Maintenance is the best way to extend its lifespan if you have asphalt pavement, driveway, or parking. Regular and preventive maintenance will also help you avoid unnecessary repair costs. Maintenance works like crack filling and sealcoating protect the asphalt against the element. In turn, it will help maintain a strong foundation that can withstand harsh weather and the burden of heavy traffic.
• Make sure that any asphalt-related work is completed quickly. Have the contractor finish the tasks within the specified time, whether it’s repair or maintenance. You tend to lose money the longer these works take, especially if it’s a parking space.
• Keep a record of all the work done. Whatever job is completed – repairs or routine maintenance – make sure to note the date and the scope of work done. This will give you a clear picture of the timeline for when you might need other work done in the future so you budget for them accordingly. Well-traveled areas of asphalt pavement will usually need significant repairs after ten years.
• Keep a budget for major works. You must anticipate the significant work necessary to keep your asphalt pavement in its best shape. And it is better to have money set aside for those times. This way, you will not need financing help as these will have added interest. 
• Your time is valuable. Always consider your time when looking for a contractor to complete asphalt paving work for you. Make sure to hire someone with the capability and equipment to complete the job. Don’t waste your time and money on inexperienced contractors – you might spend a lot more.

Managing Your Asphalt Paving Budget

For property managers with a portfolio of commercial parking spaces, you should prioritize efficiency to avoid costly mistakes. Start by researching potential contractors in your area and eliminate those with unfavorable reviews. You should also streamline your process – from hiring an asphalt paving contractor to planning for regular maintenance and eventual significant repairs.

Being proactive in the upkeep of your asphalt paving will also help you save time and money. Knowing what work has been done and when will help you plan and prioritize future projects based on your property needs.

Once you have a trusted contractor, establish a single point of contact to make it easier to facilitate future projects. Make sure to work with a business you trust and one that will give you accurate cost and scope of work. 

If you live in Pinellas County, Anderson & Son’s Asphalt will help you with your asphalt paving needs – from installation to maintenance and repair. We can work with residential and large commercial projects – and we ensure that all our clients are overly satisfied with the results. You can always contact us or visit our office!