The Asphalt Kingdom Blog

Insights, how-to’s, and much more from the world of asphalt maintenance

Navigating the Lines: How Pavement Markings Keep Us Safe on the Road

This comprehensive guide explores the importance of pavement markings in road safety!

Pavement markings are more than just paint on the road. They're a vital part of our transportation system, providing essential information to drivers and pedestrians alike. From dividing lanes to indicating crosswalks, they help organize and direct traffic, reducing confusion and preventing accidents.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance, Crack Repair, Cleaning and Preparation, Asphalt Maintenance Business, Property Management

The Versatile Workhorse: An Inside Look at Rotary Brooms for Road Maintenance

This comprehensive guide explores the versatility and benefits of rotary brooms for efficient asphalt maintenance. Discover optimal sweeping performance!

Cleaning driveways using a hand-held broom is so last century. It takes time, energy, and by the time you’ve finished, the day is already over. This is where rotary brooms come in.

Rotary brooms are the unsung heroes of road maintenance. With their spinning brushes and powerful sweeping action, these machines can tackle debris, leaves, sand and other material on paved surfaces quickly and efficiently. 

Want to learn more about these trusty machines? Keep reading for a comprehensive deep dive into the world of rotary brooms! We'll cover everything from types and sizes to optimal operation techniques and maintenance. Gain an appreciation for the versatility and benefits of this important equipment.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance, Crack Repair, Cleaning and Preparation, Asphalt Maintenance Business, Property Management

Crack Cleaning Machines: Your Partner in Lasting Asphalt Maintenance

Uncover the power of crack cleaning machines and learn about their key features, tips, and whether to rent or own when extending your asphalt's lifespan!

Asphalt surfaces like parking lots and roads require vigilant maintenance to maximize lifespan and reduce costs.

While asphalt repairs are sometimes unavoidable, regular upkeep helps delay major projects and repairs. One crucial and often overlooked aspect?

Timely and effective crack cleaning and sealing.

This is where crack cleaning machines can make a real difference for the health of your asphalt infrastructure.

In this guide, we'll cover the ins and outs of crack cleaning machines. You'll learn their key benefits, important features, proper usage, and whether renting or owning is best for your needs. We'll also debunk common myths and answer frequently asked questions from asphalt maintenance professionals like you. Let's pave the way to a smoother, safer, and more cost-effective asphalt maintenance program.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance, Crack Repair, Cleaning and Preparation, Asphalt Maintenance Business, Property Management

A Striping Machine Handbook: Your Guide to Pavement Marking Equipment

Discover the ultimate guide to striping machines for pavement marking. Learn expert tips from choosing and maintaining the right equipment for you!

Whether you're repainting a parking lot or directing traffic in a busy intersection, pavement markings are crucial for organization, visibility and safety. But perfectly painted lines don't just happen with a bucket of paint and a steady hand—delivering professional results requires investing in the right striping equipment.

In this handbook, we'll cover everything you need to know about purchasing, operating and maintaining striping machines for asphalt, concrete and other surfaces. You'll learn about the different types of stripers, from basic walk-behind models to specialized machines. We'll break down the components and functionality so you can select the best machine for your specific striping needs.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance, Line Striping, Asphalt Maintenance Business, Property Management

Clearing the Path: Mastering Asphalt Cleaning with Backpack Blowers

Discover the ultimate guide to achieving pristine asphalt surfaces with backpack blowers. Master asphalt cleaning efficiently in this comprehensive guide.

The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Pristine Asphalt Surfaces with Backpack Blowers

Don't you just hate it when the roads are full of rocks, debris, dead animals, and other stuff that doesn't belong on the road?

Well, thanks to that gravel strewn over the driveway, you have stumbled upon this comprehensive guide on mastering asphalt cleaning with backpack blowers. In today's blog post, we will delve deep into the world of asphalt maintenance and the crucial role that backpack blowers play.

Whether you are a homeowner looking to spruce up your driveway or a professional asphalt contractor, this guide is your pathway to cleaner and well-maintained asphalt surfaces. Let's get started!

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance, Cleaning and Preparation, Property Management, Asphalt Surface Preparation

The Key to Asphalt Durability: Compaction Equipment Essentials

Why is asphalt compaction important, and what role do compaction equipment play in asphalt longevity? Find out the answers in this informative blog.

  • Never underestimate the power of compaction in producing a long-lasting asphalt pavement.
  • You can use vibratory rollers or plate compactors to compact patched potholes.
  • For road construction or repairing extensive asphalt damage, use a heavy-duty drum roller.

At the heart of the road construction and pothole repair process is the art of compaction – a crucial step that ensures the longevity and durability of our roads. In this article, we delve into the mechanics of compaction, exploring the indispensable tools and techniques that convert loose asphalt into the firm, resilient surfaces beneath our wheels.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance

The Science of Asphalt Flexibility: Understanding its Key Properties

Is flexibility in asphalt important for its longevity? Understand the science of asphalt flexibility in this Asphalt Kingdom blog.

  • Asphalt's flexibility allows a pavement to adapt to temperature variations and traffic loads and helps prevent cracks and potholes.
  • Pavers can now use asphalt modifiers and additives to enhance roads and parking lots' flexibility.
  • Still, these modifiers and additives have limitations.

When you think of asphalt, the first thing that comes to mind is its hardness, durability, or its resistance. We don't usually associate it with flexibility.

But flexibility in asphalt is just as important as its hardness. In this blog, we'll delve deeper into how crucial this property is to pavements and the outsized role it plays in its longevity.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance

Edge Cracking in Asphalt: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions

Edge cracking is a common asphalt damage that is easy to fix. But it needs to be repaired immediately, or the damage will spread and destroy your asphalt.

  • Edge cracking in asphalt occurs due to the combined effects of traffic loading, temperature fluctuations, and moisture infiltration, which weaken the pavement's edges, leading to cracking.
  • It can compromise the structural integrity and longevity of the pavement, potentially leading to further deterioration and costly repairs if left unaddressed.
  • It is typically repaired by cutting out and removing the damaged section, filling the void with hot asphalt mix, and compacting it to restore the pavement's integrity.

There's regular asphalt cracking, and then there's edge cracking. Regular cracking is easier to manage with liquid crack filler and hot pour rubberized crack fill

Edge cracking is more complicated. It's position on the driveway or parking lot makes it harder to repair. But that doesn't mean it's not doable.

In this blog, you'll discover how edge cracking forms and why you should address it immediately upon discovery. We'll also discuss various solutions to this asphalt dilemma so you can extend the lifespan of the parking lot or driveway. Let's get started.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance, Crack Repair

The Role of Curbs in Effective Asphalt Roadway Design

Discover the crucial role of curbs in effective asphalt roadway design. Learn how curbs enhance safety and contribute to the aesthetics of our roads.

  • Although it might be one of the most overlooked pavement features, but the importance of road curbs are undeniable.
  • Curbs help manage stormwater away from the road and help preserve asphalt and concrete pavement.
  • They are commonly made of concrete, asphalt, plastic, and composite.

Asphalt roadways are a ubiquitous part of our modern infrastructure, providing smooth and durable surfaces for vehicles and pedestrians alike.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance

Tire Tracking Explained: Impact on Asphalt Durability

Explore the impact of tire tracking on asphalt durability. Understand its role in maintenance, road lifespan prediction, & cost savings. Get started now!

  • Discover what causes tire tracking and how it affects pavement integrity.
  • Learn about the benefits of using tire tracking in pavement analysis.

Dive into the world of pavement longevity and safety with our latest blog below. We'll unravel the mystery of tire tracking, a subtle yet critical phenomenon that dictates the lifespan of asphalt roads. 

Discover how this key player in road analysis not only reveals the future of our streets but also guides cost-effective maintenance and robust infrastructure. Get ready to hit the road on a journey through the science that keeps our journeys smooth.

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Topics: Asphalt Maintenance

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