Asphalt milling (also called pavement milling) refers to grinding and removing the topmost layer of asphalt pavement. This is often done to keep pavement from getting too high from years of asphalt resurfacing and also prevents drainage problems.
The asphalt material removed during milling can then be reused for other projects at a reduced cost. Recycled asphalt can sometimes be used as an alternative to stone gravel and hot asphalt.
It is also resistant to harsh weather elements and is less expensive than other paving materials.
Here are the top four reasons why you should consider asphalt millings over stone gravel.
1. Lower Cost
Crushed asphalt millings are made out of recycled asphalt pavement. Since the material used for the project is recycled, the cost is significantly lower than if you had to pay for all new materials. Essentially, asphalt millings are the crushed remnants from other asphalt projects, so you pay less.
2. Lowers Use of Scarce Natural Resources
If you are planning a LEED project, you’ll want to consider the benefits of asphalt milling. Not only can asphalt pavement milling help you earn LEED credits, but certain asphalt paving projects may even be eligible for tax credits. For example, commercial asphalt parking lots might qualify for tax credits if asphalt millings were used.
Even if you aren’t working toward a LEED certification, asphalt milling is still kinder to the environment than gravel because it uses .
3. Resistant to Weather
Asphalt millings are a durable construction material that resist cold temperatures, snow, and ice. They also help snow melt faster off of paved surfaces and make it harder for ice to form. If you are familiar with Michigan winters, you’ll know that durable asphalt paving materials are important for extending the life of the pavement.
4. No Maintenance
Asphalt millings harden over time, which strengthens the surface of your asphalt parking lot or roadway. Asphalt millings also don’t need to be refinished, resurfaced, or replaced, which saves you money in the long-run. They’re durable against the weather elements, which is useful in a state like Michigan where the weather changes every 10 minutes.
In case you’re still not convinced...
Traditional gravel doesn’t stay in one place. Instead, it scatters over time and reduces the depth of your driveway. This may especially be the case if you used gravel to fill a pothole.
are also more difficult to plow and are prone to getting ruts. In the summer, driving on gravel can stir up dust and debris. For these reasons, our contractors often recommend asphalt millings over gravel.
Request a Free Estimate with A-1 Asphalt
For the best results, you’ll want to hire an experienced asphalt company like A-1 Asphalt. That way, you’ll be able to get the high-quality results you want and expect. One of our licensed asphalt contractors will be able to help you determine your best options for prolonging the life of your pavement.
A-1 Asphalt is an . But we’re also proud to serve Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, and surrounding West Michigan communities. To request a free estimate for any of our asphalt paving services, please call A-1 Asphalt at (800) 871-4401. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.