Wolf Paving Blog

What’s the Difference Between Porous Asphalt and Warm Mix Asphalt?

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 22:15:00 GMT

When it comes time to pave your driveway or parking lot, how do you decide which asphalt mix is right for your project. Do you use porous asphalt or warm mix asphalt? Certainly the asphalt paving company you choose can help you with this decision, but below are some facts about each product that you should consider.

5 Key Facts About Porous Asphalt

Porous asphalt is cost-effective because of its availability and ease of transportation.
Provides storm water management with its ability to drain water through the pavement surface into a stone bed and the soil below.
Life span of more than 20 years with little to no cracking or pothole problems. Proper asphalt maintenance increases its life and ability to drain water.
Porous asphalt is environmentally friendly because it drains water instead of forcing water into sewer systems, thus reducing demands on storm sewer systems.
Recommended for low volume and speed locations, such as walkways, sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. The slightly rougher texture of the asphalt provides more traction for pedestrians and vehicles.

5 Key Facts About Warm Mix Asphalt

Allows the material to be mixed at lower temperatures, which saves in fuel costs and decreases the production of greenhouse gases.
A reduction in the production in emissions and fumes improves working conditions and creates a better relationship with neighbors.
Using warm mix asphalt makes it possible to use more amounts of recycled asphalt.
Warm mix asphalt solves immediate problems such as paving during colder weather – which lengthens the paving season, paving over cracked sealant, and long hauls.
There is less ageing of the binding of the pavement process, which improves the longevity of the pavement. The effort for aggregate coating and compaction is also reduced.

For more information on the different types of asphalt and to find out which type is best for your project, contact the experts at Wolf Paving.

The Revolution of Pavement Starting at Route 66

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 21:44:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered what the first paved road was like? Route 66 is not the same as it was when the highway was built in the 1930s. With highways and paving, transportation and people’s lives were revolutionized during the 1930s and 1940s.

Highways allowed people the opportunity to travel, to have a sense of freedom, going from town to town. Route 66 was the first paved highway that gave hope to those looking for jobs and a better life. The highway was so popular a song was even written about it, “Get Your Kicks on Route 66,” which became a hit by Nat King Cole.

Among popular highways like Route 66, came Wisconsin’s first divided highway. Blue Mound Road became a divided, paved, four-lane highway in the 1920s. The road was highly travelled because it connected Wisconsin’s two major cities, Madison and Milwaukee.

Building interstates was the next step after highways. After Congress passed the Federal-Aid Highway Act in 1956, the interstate network was born. The late 50s ended with the construction of the interstate and it was not completed until the 1990s. The creation of interstates boosted business and cities and suburbs started to grow.

Trucking and long-distance travel increased because of the development of interstates. More families began traveling and touring. More companies began using commercial freight by truck as opposed to using the railroad. With all the travel, the automobile industry began expanding and had a stronger demand.

Because of the increase in traffic and travel, more distinct ways of commuting were necessary. So began the construction of intercity highways, beltways, and city streets, resulting in the growth for business in America.

What would it have been like had paved roads not been created, and stayed dirt roads? How would the business industry have developed?

Interested in learning more about the growth of the paving industry and how roads evolved? Read more at America on the Move from the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

4 Keys for Quality Asphalt Paving

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:41:00 GMT

Have you ever noticed that some asphalt paving looks great for years, while some deteriorates quickly? What causes asphalt installations to behave so differently?

The answer lies in the proper preparation, laying, and care of asphalt. Here are four keys to ensuring your asphalt paving project looks great and lasts.

Choose a Reputable Contractor

Asphalt requires heavy equipment and specialized training, so the fist key is to select a knowledgeable contractor. Ask probing questions, such as:

Do they have expertise in this specific type of project?
Can they provide references?
Are they insured?

Prepare the Site

The second key is to ensure proper site preparation. Discuss project requirements (size, steepness, stairs, ramps, etc.) with the contractor. Ask about any steps that you need to take.

The contractor will also need to prepare the site. If already paved, it’s possible the asphalt can be laid over, but it may need to be removed. Vegetation will need to be stripped, the area excavated, and the soil compacted. When the site is ready, a gravel or asphalt base will be added. Last, the hot liquid paving will be poured.

Let it Be

The third key is simple – let the surface cool and cure properly. Nothing should touch it during this time. Your contractor will guide you, but usually 1-2 days are needed.

Seal It In

Properly sealcoating the surface is critical – it protects the asphalt and helps avoid cracks and potholes. Here’s more information:

Sealcoating Tips and Benefits

Sealcoating Overview

Sealcoats also need to cure for 24-48 hours after application.

We hope you find these four keys to a successful asphalt project helpful! Getting the right contractor, preparing the site, properly curing, and properly sealcoating will give you lasting functionality.

Considering asphalt paving? Contact Wolf Paving for a quote today!

The World of Asphalt Conference Overview

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:41:00 GMT

The asphalt industry is full of events that bring in new perspectives and help expand the knowledge base of those in the asphalt paving industry. The World of Asphalt Show and Conference 2012, March 13-15, in Charlotte, North Carolina, provides over 40 educational sessions and many opportunities to talk to industry experts and view over 300 exhibitors. Here’s a brief overview of what the conference has to offer.

People, Plants, and Paving Training Program

Learn the skills necessary for optimal paving performance
Learn new techniques for quality asphalt paving
Learn ways to preserve and sustain asphalt pavement

AGG1 Academy

Discover the latest trends in the aggregate industry
Discover ways to evaluate and improve plant productivity
Discover how production changes can affect quality

Going Green

Explore ways to lower costs and be more eco-friendly
Explore some “green” practices for asphalt mixtures
Explore case studies about warm mix asphalt

Also, review some of the products that will appear in the exhibits at the World of Asphalt Conference. Some exhibitors include:

Astec
Bomag
Caterpillar
Clarence Richard

Check out this full list of asphalt industry events happening this year. Are you attending any events this year? Do you have an event that you’d like to add to the list? We’d love to hear from you via the comments section below.

Wisconsin's Top Rated Hunt Club Chooses Wolf Paving

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:32:00 GMT

Milford Hills Hunt Club is the leading hunt club in Wisconsin with a proud 5-star rating. Located in Johnson Creek, Wisconsin, they have been serving Milwaukee, Madison, and surrounding areas for 17 years with over 400 acres of land. More than just a hunt club, they host many corporate and special events, as wells as weddings and celebrations. The club also has a full restaurant and bar open to the public.

Milford Hills was looking to have their 2-acre parking lot and driveway repaved. Being a 5-star rated hunt club, they understand the importance of maintaining a professional looking and high-quality environment to their customers. To that end, creating a positive first impression with a new, asphalt driveway and parking lot was an important objective.

According to Lloyd Marks, owner/operator of Milford Hills Hunt Club, “We chose Wolf Paving because of the quality, the service, the commitment of the family run business, and the time frame of when they could get (the paving) done."

He went on to say, “When the project was finished it was exactly what they (Wolf Paving) said; it was actually above and beyond. They were here to help…they did a great job on everything and made sure everything was satisfied with the customer. It was awesome; we would love to recommend Wolf to any of our other customers. If anybody ever asks us, we always do."

Wolf Paving offers a variety of paving services, including both residential and commercial paving, such as business or private parking lots and driveways, to fit the needs of their customers.

If you are interested in having your parking lot repaved or seal coated, or would like more information, call the experts at Wolf Paving or request a quote.

Beware the Color of Black Ice - A Clear and Slippery Danger!

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 18:39:00 GMT

Everyone remembers that scene in Disney’s Bambi where he skids around on ice while his rabbit friend laughs. The scene is very cute, but it belies reality: ice is extremely dangerous, causing many injuries and accidents each winter.

The most dangerous is black ice – that transparent sheet of mayhem lurking on pavement. It’s virtually indistinguishable from the surface below, so can it even be avoided? If not, what then?

Be Vigilant

Black ice can be nearly invisible, but careful observation may help. If pavement seems shinier or darker, beware. It's often in shaded areas and on bridges and overpasses, but any area is potentially icy – it only takes a little water to freeze.

Take your time. Remember 4-wheel and all-wheel drives can spin out on a sheet of ice just as easily! Go slowly so you can drive more defensively, too.

Be Deliberate

Be calm and deliberate. Avoid sudden, jerky movements, like stomping on your gas or brake pedals. You’ll glide along on ice in nearly the same trajectory you were going before. If you fight this, you’re likely to spin out (driving) or fall (walking).

Remove your foot from the accelerator and wait for traction. If you're going slowly, you’ll have time to stop. Avoid braking suddenly, and keep steering where you were. If you start spinning out, gently steer in the direction of the skid.

Try to avoid walking on slick pavement, and walk slowly if you do. Don't react in a jerky fashion if you start to slip. We really are like Bambi, but with only two spindly legs instead of four!

The best safety tip is to check conditions and stay home on icy days. If not, be vigilant and deliberate. The extra time is worth it to stay safe in slick conditions.

A Complete Winter Survival Kit for Your Car

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 21:42:00 GMT

Most of us lead a comfortable existence, assured we’ll have warmth, food, and shelter every day. Unfortunately, this means we rarely plan for situations in which our lives might actually be threatened.

Bad weather can strip away your safety suddenly. To see how quickly a normal situation can turn deadly, we have only to look back at the sad death of James Kim of CNET, who lost his life seeking help after his car and family were stranded in a blizzard. You don’t have to be in a very remote area for this to happen, either. Wisconsin blizzards can be so blinding that rescue crews can’t see you 10 feet off the road.

We really don’t know what the weather will bring, but you can take steps to help ensure your safety. Ensure your car is in working order, that you have sufficient fuel, and that you verify directions and watch for warning signs. Carrying a winter survival kit may help if the unexpected happens.

Here are the basic items recommended by the Wisconsin DOT for your winter survival kit:

3-pound metal coffee can (punch 3 equidistant holes at the top). Store the other items inside the can.
60" twine and 3 large safety pins (to suspend can).
1 candle 2" diameter (place on lid under suspended can for melting snow).
Pocketknife and spoon.
Bright cloth (tie to antenna or door handle).
Packets of soup, hot chocolate, tea, bouillon cubes, etc.
Peanuts, protein/energy bars, dried fruit, etc.
Socks and gloves (not cotton).
2 packs of matches.
1 sun shield blanket.
1 pen light and batteries (keep separate).

Pack enough material to survive at least 72 hours in your vehicle. If you’ll be travelling in a more remote location at any time, pack more. Here's a more advanced kit from Safety-Goods.

Deicing Your Driveway the ECO Friendly Way

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:05:00 GMT

Did You Know Deicers Can Be Environmentally Harmful?

Depending on which solution is used, concerns might include it washing down into water stores, damaging plants, creating air particulates, or being harmful to animals. It can also cause damage to home fixtures like wooden steps and may damage asphalt. Even storing deicing solutions is a careful business, since large amounts can leach into soil and seriously affect nearby waterways.

Use Deicers Sparingly

It’s therefore recommended that deicers be used sparingly. Shoveling and plowing regularly can help, and laying down sand or gravel helps traction (not melting). If you lay down sand or gravel, it’s best to sweep it up or otherwise collect it afterward for reuse in the next storm. (Reuse is one of the primary tenets of environmental stewardship, since buying new supplies creates waste in production, packaging, and shipping -- plus reusing saves you money!)

In those rare cases when more powerful deicing solutions are needed, it’s important to shovel and plow first, and then use the least toxic option that's still effective. Salt and sand are the most cost-effective, but calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is also relatively inexpensive and benign. Potassium acetate (KA) is another fairly benign option that also works at colder temperatures than salt or CMA.

An Environmentally Friendly Mix

The best option in many cases is to use a mix of various deicing agents. At Wolf Paving, we prefer to use a mix of sand and salt, in ratios of 8:1, 4:1, or 1:1 as appropriate. No solution is perfect, but we find this is the best for melting, improving traction, and having the minimal possible impact on the environment.

Need help with deicing in an environmentally friendly way? We’d love to talk with you about your needs. Contact us for a quote today.

3 Ways to Benefit from Professional Snow Removal

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:54:00 GMT

Nothing stops Old Man Winter from reminding you of his existence, and he doesn't choose the most pleasant tactics! Those wintry reminders can be burdensome for you as a business owner as you try to keep your lots and sidewalks safe. Here are three more reasons to seriously consider professional snow management instead.

1. Safety
The safety of employees and patrons is probably at the top of your list of winter concerns. Slippery conditions can cause falls and injuries. No one wants to see someone hurt, especially from something that could be avoided. Besides the injury, litigation might follow and cost your business in time and money.

2. Quality
Sure, you could have your buddy plow your lot. But would it be done right? Also consider the potential damage untrained plowing might do. A professional plowing company understands how to maintain and preserve the asphalt surface and is a lot less likely to mar the surface with the plow's blade.

3. Economics
You’ll have to decide, but we’re convinced that snow removal services are the smart and economical choice. Depending on your needs, you might choose snow removal on a regular basis, just when snow arrives (available 24/7), or on a seasonal plan to save more. (Whatever you choose, be sure it happens often. Multiple snowfalls or ice storms can create very unsafe conditions and be harder to resolve.)

Remember when winter sends his missives, you can keep the worst away economically and safely by using professional, high-quality snow removal. Click here for a quote!

How Porous Asphalt Pavement Helped Expand a Business

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 20:41:00 GMT

In June of 2011 Wolf Paving was brought in as an asphalt paving subcontractor on a building addition and parking lot expansion project. But, as it turned out, this wasn’t your normal, run-of-the-mill type of project. It became a unique collaboration among a diverse and highly-talented team.

At the time, the Wenthe-Davidson Engineering Co. of New Berlin, Wisconsin was in need of a facilities expansion in the neighborhood of 25,000sf. At first blush, engineering revealed there simply wasn’t enough usable land at the site to accommodate a new structure of that size plus the additional parking that would be needed and, still be in compliance with the areas storm water management plan. It seemed relocating to another location was the only answer, but that too proved to be an untenable, cost-prohibitive solution. And somewhere in all of this some very bright people got together around a porous asphalt pavement solution.

Mark Ellena of Ellena Engineering Consultants got the idea for a very unique and ingenious solution from a seminar he had taken on flood water management methods and procedures involving the use of porous asphalt. According to the National Asphalt Paving Association (NAPA), porous asphalt pavement has played a prominent role in the paving industry since the mid-1970s. More importantly perhaps, it’s been discovered to be an extremely cost-effective and viable solution for complex projects involving storm water management. According to information found on NAPA’s Web site: “With the proper design and installation, porous asphalt can provide cost-effective, attractive pavements with a life span of more than twenty years, and at the same time provide storm-water management systems that promote infiltration, improve water quality, and many times eliminate the need for a detention basin.”

Mr Ellena brought this idea of using porous asphalt for the parking lot expansion over the floodplain to Jim Warzinski of Wolf Paving. Mark provided research and created a design based on the specifications involving the size, depth and quantity of material needed for water storage and infiltration. Jim supplied his expertise on the technical aspects of the porous asphalt product and a gradation plan that would meet Mark’s design requirements. Together, the pair provided general contractor, Anderson Ashton a compelling and winning plan by which to enable the customer to successfully complete their expansion without compromising the site’s storm water management scheme - and most likely saving the company tens of thousands, perhaps millions of dollars in the process.

Another key player in the overall solution was the Vulcan Materials Company who supplied the all-important base course or stone recharge bed called, Decco Base. This is the heart of the system which not only provides the infiltration of water but a strong sub-base for the porous asphalt. In the illustration below, you can see a cross section of the elements making up the complete solution.

“Together, we collaborated on design and technique to meet the client’s need and delivered the solution with a personal touch, said Mark Ellena. “And It looks better than I ever thought it would look, Wolf really delivers to meet the project needs. They’re the best around.”

The following is a photo of a portion of the finished parking lot with the porous asphalt on the left and the regular asphalt pavement on the right.

Have a storm water management challenge to your expansion or property plans? Consider a porous asphalt pavement solution, designed and installed by the experts.

This is one of Wolf Paving's many success stories. A leading provider of residential, industrial and commercial paving solutions in Milwaukee and southern Wisconsin, Wolf Paving has built a strong reputation for exceeding client expectations through ingenuity, adaptability and old-fashioned hard work. (Not to mention some pretty effective teamwork and collaboration with some of the best engineers, contractors and industry suppliers around!)

'Tis the Season of Football and Driveway Sealcoating

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:01:00 GMT

Summer is over; fall is here. Temperatures are down, and football is on. But football isn’t the only thing you have to think about. Winter is coming, and some household maintenance may need to be done to prepare.

For example, should you apply driveway sealcoating before winter? A proper seal is important for avoiding cracks and potholes.

How Often Should I Sealcoat?

Sealing doesn’t need to be done every year. So how do you know if this is the year?

A driveway sealcoat usually lasts 2-4 years, but its life expectancy depends on weather and use. Look carefully for these signs:

Cracks 1/8” or larger
Patchy, dry look
Pitting
Gravelly surface

Pits and cracks allow water to get in and do more damage. A dry, unprotected look may indicate UV damage that could eventually break down the binder material in the asphalt.

Do It Myself or Hire a Contractor?

It can be a messy process, but some homeowners choose to do the driveway sealcoating themselves. The overall process is:

Ensure the area is ready – rope off the driveway, cut back the grass, and remove any decorative items nearby.
Remove all debris from cracks and pits. Apply crack filler and let dry.
Remove any remaining surface debris (use a leaf blower and brooms).
Wearing safety glasses, cut in the edges of the driveway, applying a coal tar based sealer with a handheld brush.
Still wearing safety glasses, apply the remaining sealer by pouring it out on the driveway and spreading it thinly from side to side to the cut-in areas. Excess sealer should not be allowed into grass or drains. Allow to dry at least 36 hours.

If you choose to hire a contractor, ensure they have experience and a good reputation, and that they use commercial quality materials. Ask about their process, too. Contact multiple companies to compare. Ask about their square footage rate, and ensure you know your driveway dimensions so you can check their estimate.

Ready to have it done right? Contact Wolf Paving for a sealcoating estimate today!

You may also be interested in these articles:

Sealcoating Your Driveway - Tips and Benefits

Sealcoating Your Asphalt Driveway - An Overview

The Greener Side of Asphalt Pavement

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 20:44:00 GMT

Think green… What do you think of? Hybrid cars? Wind power? Asphalt?

Wait, what? Did you say asphalt?

While asphalt isn’t the traditional herald of green living, it’s a lot greener than you think.

But… It’s Petroleum-Based!

Asphalt is petroleum-based, but it’s inert, meaning it doesn’t leach into the surrounding environment. A 1997 study conducted by the Marine Science Institute (MSI) (Impact of Runoff from Asphaltic Products on Stream Communities in California) analyzed pollutants in stormwater runoff. While pollutants were found, they were from vehicle emissions, oil drippings, etc., not from the pavement. Further research has also concluded that pollutants in runoff are caused by the vehicles using the pavements, not by the asphalt itself.

Cleaner Water

OK, it’s great news that the asphalt doesn’t leach out chemicals and heavy metals, but that’s net zero, not positive.

You might be surprised to know that some asphalt actually improves the quality of stormwater runoff. These have open-graded surfaces to allow water to pass into a stone recharge bed below, temporarily storing and filtering it instead of letting it run directly into waterways. This is a lot like the filtration of soil layers and removes pollutants that would otherwise be carried into waterways. In fact, full-depth porous asphalt pavements are encouraged by the EPA as a best management practice for stormwater.

Recycled Materials

Asphalt can be recycled and reused many times. At least 90 million tons of old asphalt pavement is crushed and recycled into new asphalt annually. Wolf Paving recycles 100% of the asphalt they remove from job sites, plus accepts recyclable material from other contractors, saving these materials from landfills and greatly reducing the natural resources needed to produce all-new asphalt.

So next time you’re driving your hybrid on asphalt paving, remember that it’s much greener than it seems!

Why Parking Lot Striping is Part Science, Art

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Parking lot striping appears to be deceptively simple. Many paving clients see their freshly painted lots with neat, perfectly straight lines demarcating parking spots and think there was nothing to it. In reality, creating parking spots is an intricate process that requires careful planning and precise execution.

The process begins by taking the practical factors into account. At this stage, the paving company will consider:

The total surface area of the parking lot
City zoning requirements and limits on the number of parking spaces
The client's desired parking spot size and shape, and their preferred layout for the lot
Logistics of traffic flow within the parking lot area and adjacent streets

After these considerations have been properly factored into the equation, the paving company will create a parking lot striping plan. While such plans are generally designed to create a familiar and orderly layout that maximizes the available space, some clients prefer to be creative and add some flair to the parking lot by creating unique layouts and differently shaped or oriented parking spots.

Some of the many parking lot striping possibilities include:

Single lines: This is the simplest and least expensive option.
Double lines or double-lined ends: Double lines can separate individual spots, or mark the ends of rows.
Rounded ends: This is a decorative alternative to the double-lined end style.
Custom striping: A specialized design of the client's choice can usually be incorporated.
T-stall parking: These box-style parking stalls make the most of tight spaces against walls or in isolated corners.

At Wolf Paving, our skilled professionals can execute any type of parking lot striping plan, from the simplest and most straightforward to the most intricate and unique. We serve clients throughout the Milwaukee area, and to discuss your specific needs in detail, please contact us.

4 Keys to Quality Commercial Parking Lot Paving

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Commercial parking lot paving isn't a job you want to entrust to just anyone. Your parking lot is one of the first points of contact customers have with your business, and maintaining a clean, evenly paved lot with quality asphalt communicates key values about your company. If you're in need of a parking lot expansion or upgrade and you're wondering what features actually define a quality commercial parking lot paving job, familiarizing yourself with a few important technical principles is a good place to start.

Four Key Features of Good Commercial Parking Lot Paving Jobs
In simple terms, the features that define a quality paving job can be broken down into four categories:

Smooth integration of existing pavement. If you want to expand an existing parking lot, or integrate existing pavement into a refurbished, precision saw-cutting is an essential first step.
A good gravel base. Without a proper gravel foundation, the parking lot will buckle and give under the weight of traffic.
Proper drainage. Water needs to have somewhere to go. Carefully designed drainage systems prevent buildups of standing water and long-term damage to the parking lot.
Attention to detail. While the asphalt is hot and fresh, skilled workers use hand rollers and plate compactors to ensure an even surface and sharp edging.

At Wolf Paving, we take great pride in building some of the longest-lasting and best-looking asphalt pavements in the Madison and Milwaukee area. Our professionals use advanced equipment and precision techniques to integrate existing pavement, lay gravel foundations, create proper drainage channels, and add detail to parking lot asphalt. If you'd like to see examples of some of our finest work and hear from satisfied past customers, visit our gallery or read our testimonials. You can also contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation about your commercial paving project.

A Brief History and Types of Asphalt Pavement

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Asphalt pavement traces its history back to prehistoric times. Its earliest confirmed usage as a road material is dated at 625 BC, when the Babylonians used it to pave the route leading from King Naboppolassar's opulent palace to city's northern wall. It was also used by the ancient Greeks and Romans for various construction and engineering applications, and was revived in Europe in the 18th century, when a rapidly modernizing world was in need of infrastructure improvements.

Types of Asphalt Pavement

Today, asphalt pavement is widely used throughout the developed world due to its combination of versatility, durability and cost effectiveness. There are two major types of pavement: flexible and rigid. Flexible pavement has a bituminous composition, and draws its name from its pliability and relative softness. Rigid pavement has a cement concrete base and has a much harder finish. Asphalt falls into the flexible pavement category.

The exact characteristics of a given asphalt material is primarily dependent on its mix characteristics. Numerous mix compositions are used in construction, yielding the following major pavement types:

Perpetual. Drawing on multi-layer engineering technologies, perpetual pavement is safe, smooth and durable, offering excellent vehicle support and ease of repair and maintenance.
Porous. Favored in applications which require drainage, porous pavement allows water to filter through it on its way back into the ground.
Quiet. When noise reduction is desirable, various stone-matrix and graded friction course mixes are used. These are collectively known as "quiet pavement" types.

Wolf Paving is a leading provider of asphalt construction in the Milwaukee and Madison areas. Established in 1941, the company combines extensive experience with cutting-edge technologies for superb results. If you have a residential or commercial paving project on the horizon, contact us to arrange an expert consultation.

Important Driveway Cleaning Tips

Sun, 28 Aug 2011 12:46:00 GMT

Driveway cleaning is an important maintenance task which can extend the life of your surfacing, regardless of whether you've chosen concrete, asphalt, interlocking brick or an alternative material. However, for the most effective cleaning, it's important to use material-specific techniques and tools that are specially designed to help you get the job done more effectively with less effort.

Grease spots are a common problem on driveways, and the best way to get rid of them depends on which material your driveway is surfaced with. On concrete, cola and dishwashing liquid effectively bust grease spots. Simply pour the soda onto the stain, saturating it and leaving it to soak overnight. In the morning, lather up a nylon brush with dishwashing liquid and warm water, then scrub. The stain will lift away quickly and easily. On asphalt, trisodium phosphate, bleach and baking soda are all very effective. Apply one of these compounds directly to the stain, then use a broom with firm bristles to scrub it away.

For cleaning dirt and debris off your driveway, a pressure washer is one of the most effective and labor-intensive tools you can use. However, be careful not to use a pressure washer to attempt to remove oil patches or other set-in stains, as the intense pressure created by the hose can actually grind the stain more deeply into your driveway surface. General driveway cleaning with a pressure washer works best when you use a hose that's capable of producing at least 3,000 PSi, and you can reinforce your efforts by applying a protective coating to your clean driveway once you've finished.

Taking care of your driveway is essential to avoiding the expenses associated with resurfacing it. With proper maintenance, a concrete, asphalt or interlocking brick driveway will add years of curb appeal to your home.

###

Wolf Paving, an asphalt manufacturer and asphalt paving contractor has been proudly serving the greater Milwaukee and Madison area since 1941.

A First Class Tennis Court Construction Project for Pewaukee Schools

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 21:51:00 GMT

"I did a final inspection on the courts on July 8, 2011, and I have to say that this was a first-class tennis court project."

This is what construction consultant Mike Devine had to say after Wolf Paving completed a challenging tennis court construction project for the Pewaukee, Wisconsin school district. Wolf Paving delivered on its promises even when faced with difficult working conditions and stringent project tolerances. The company's professionals leveraged their skill, experience and innovation to rise to the occasion.

An Overview of the Pewaukee School District Tennis Court Project

The Pewaukee school district awarded the tennis court contract to Wolf Paving in March, 2011. All in all, the project consisted of eight standard-sized tennis courts.

Engineering company JSD Professional Services, Inc. and construction consultant Mike Devine created an intricate design for the project, complete with an elaborate drainage system to be built beneath the court to prevent the collection of standing water, which could cause serious damage to the surface integrity of the courts themselves.

Deliverables and Project Tolerances

With week after week of rainy weather, it soon became apparent that it would be impossible to meet the original construction deadline of June 20, 2011. Another challenge that Wolf Paving faced was that the slope for the tennis court drainage system was capped at a maximum of 1.06 percent, which is slightly more than half of the standard slope allowance for roads and parking lots. Despite initial doubts that this could be accomplished, the construction consultant and engineering firm created a plan to make it work. Then, it was all up to Wolf Paving to make their blueprints a functional reality.

Wolf Paving Rises to the Occasion

The tennis court construction project faced adversity almost from the get-go. Weather conditions during the end of March and throughout April were extremely wet, but despite the fact that 45 percent of the working days of the construction period were rife with precipitation, Wolf Paving revised its initial project management and revamped communications to facilitate improved efficiency.

The Wolf Paving team worked very hard to maximize every work day to make up for the rainy weather, and succeeded with flying colors. Through a combination of employee dedication and the innovative application of 100 percent virgin asphalt mix to ensure the perfect smoothness of the court surfaces, the tennis court construction project was completed on July 5, 2011 to remarkable results.

Making Asphalt Driveway Designs Beautiful

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 21:06:00 GMT

Whether you're building a new home and considering various driveway configurations or resurfacing an existing driveway, the design you choose can add a great deal of curb appeal and property value to your home or business. A little creativity goes a long way, and with that in mind, here are some ideas for driveway designs that can add character to your property:

Circular driveways. Rounded and circular driveway designs are elegant as well as practical. They improve accessibility and help segment the space in front of your home or business, making property and lawn maintenance easier while giving you additional landscaping options.
Driveway aprons. If you have a straight driveway leading onto the property from the road, you can add a decorative driveway apron that guides residents and guests towards a garage or parking area. Aprons are also ideal for houses where additional parking is needed for a second vehicle, allowing residents to come and go without needing to move the other car out of the way.
Branched driveways. Like driveway aprons, branched driveways are ideal for multi-vehicle homes and businesses. They allow for separate car parking away from the street while making efficient and eye-catching use of outdoor space.

In terms of the actual surfacing, you can turn simple asphalt into a stunning arrangement that complements your property nicely:

Stamps and patterns. Both symmetrical and abstract stamping and patterning driveway designs can elevate simple asphalt into a thing of beauty.
Colored asphalt. Specially colored asphalt creates a unique complement to your home or business, lending unity to the overall appearance of the property.

You can also use similar techniques to give concrete a more unique and textured look, and interlocking brick, while more expensive, is also one of the most striking and beautiful driveway finishing options on the market.

Driveway lighting: benefits and options

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 19:36:00 GMT

The benefits of driveway lighting are proven. In both industrial and residential settings, well-lit driveways deter thieves, intruders and trespassers, and improve safety for the building's residents and occupants. You can also greatly enhance the curb appeal of your property by choosing the right type of lighting for your driveway. Broadly speaking, you have three major options:

Transit lighting. The defining feature of transit lighting is its low placement. This type of driveway lighting is mounted close to the ground, either by placing the bottom ends of the lights directly into the ground or mounting the lights on low-lying poles. While the effects of transit lighting are subtle, they are effective; it helps residents, employees and visitors find their way without being blinded by a bright eye-level light.
Post lighting. One of the major advantages of post lighting is that it casts light over a wider area, providing superior protection and theft deterrence. In most cases, post lights are mounted on poles that stand between three and four feet in height; stylistic options are endless, ranging from the traditional looks of bygone decades to ultra-modern, contemporary styles.
Path lighting. If you're looking for an option that combines elegance with practicality, path lighting is an ideal choice. Best-suited to residential applications, path lights typically consist of two lights mounted on tall poles on opposite sides of the driveway entrance, with additional lights placed at regular intervals along the driveway's path. It can also be used on commercial properties, especially if the driveway is relatively narrow before opening up to a larger parking lot.

In terms of power sources, consider solar driveway lighting as an alternative to traditional electricity- or battery-powered lights. Solar driveway lights draw their charge from the sun during the day, providing green and eco-friendly lighting all night long.

###

Wolf Paving, an asphalt manufacturer and asphalt paving contractor has been proudly serving the greater Milwaukee and Madison area since 1941.

Advantages of Asphalt Paving Over Concrete Driveways

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 18:58:00 GMT

The majority of commercial and residential driveways are finished with one of the two most cost-effective materials on the market: asphalt or concrete. If you're paving a new driveway or refinishing an existing one and you're wondering about the relative benefits of these common options, asphalt has many benefits beyond its price--which is typically 30 to 40 percent less than concrete.

Speed and Usability
An asphalt driveway can usually be laid in one or two days, depending on the size of the project. Concrete, on the other hand, typically takes twice as long to lay and even longer to set. Depending on the season, asphalt driveways can be ready for use in as little as two days after completion, whereas concrete can take up to a week.

Durability
Unlike concrete, asphalt is not subject to surface flaking caused by poor installation, incorrect preparations of the mixture and the application of salts to melt ice and snow. Known as "spalling," this surface flaking is an ongoing problem with many concrete driveways, especially those that were hastily installed. Given its flexibility, asphalt is also considerably less likely than pavement to crack.

Lower Maintenance Costs
If your asphalt driveway does start to show some lineal cracking, you can repair these easily and inexpensively. The crack sealant products you need are widely available through home improvement retailers, don't cost very much and can easily be applied on your own, even if you have absolutely no previous paving expertise.

An additional benefit of asphalt is that its black color helps it draw and retain more of the sun's heat; in the winter, this means that snow will melt faster on an asphalt driveway than it will on a concrete driveway. This makes commercial property maintenance easier and improves safety in residential settings.

If you have any questions about the benefits of asphalt paving or are interested in a free quote, please drop us a line.

###

Wolf Paving, an asphalt manufacturer and asphalt paving contractor has been proudly serving the greater Milwaukee and Madison area since 1941.

Asphalt Pavement vs. Barrier Walls For Reducing Traffic Noise

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 03:42:00 GMT

If you drive near Milwaukee or Madison, you're probably all too familiar with barrier walls that are constructed near highways to prevent traffic noise for those residents living near the highway.

Do you ever wonder if they work? They obviously must prevent some noise or they wouldn't have been constructed, right? Is there a better alternative? We would argue that asphalt pavement might be a better, more cost-effective way to reduce traffic noise at the source - where the rubber meets the road.

Vehicle-generated noise comes from a variety of sources—engine, exhaust system, air friction and pavement/tire interaction but at speeds above 50 mph, pavement/tire noise becomes the main source. So rather than just mask the sound with barrier walls, why not work to reduce the sound by making a smoother road? That's where asphalt pavement comes into play.

Open-graded asphalt pavement, also referred to as "quiet pavement", is made with large air voids which reduce the tire/road noise by absorbing some of the noise energy into the voids of the asphalt. Open-graded asphalt can reduce highway noise by 3 dBA - which is the equivalent of either cutting the traffic volume in half or doubling the distance between the traffic noise and the listener.

An added safety benefit to ths open-graded asphalt is that is reduces standing water on highways. Does it get any better than this? Well, the answer is yes, if you consider it's also less expensive to build a quiet asphalt pavement surface than it is to construct a barrier wall. Barrier walls are roughly 3 times the cost of quiet asphalt highways.

So, if you're in the planning stages of a road or highway construction project - or live near a highway and are unhappy with the traffic noise level, consider a safer, more effective and less expensive alternative - asphalt pavement!

###

Wolf Paving, an asphalt manufacturer and asphalt paving contractor has been proudly serving the greater Milwaukee and Madison area since 1941.

Smooth Asphalt Pavement Saves You Money

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 20:22:00 GMT

With the rough vehicle fuel economy, people are trying to cut back on driving. This is easier said than done. Here's some good news though, and it may make you rethink how you feel about road construction. Smooth pavement lowers a vehicle's fuel consumption and extends the life of the road by minimizing tire bounce and load impacts - which adds up to cost savings for you in the end.

The Asphalt Pavement Alliance (APA) published a nice e-book discussing the benefits of smooth pavement and how making small changes can make a big difference. It's worth the read and available for download on their website.

In summary, the e-book discusses the three characteristics that researches are looking at as a way to reduce vehicle fuel consumption - something we can all appreciate. The characteristics that they're analyzing are: rolling resistance, pavement stiffness and pavement smoothness.

Of the three, pavement smoothness has the biggest impact on overall fuel efficiency. Studies done by the Federal Highway Administration have shown that driving on smoother surfaces can reduce fuel consumption in the neighborhood of 4.5 to 5 percent as compared to fuel consumption on rough pavement. That really adds up when you look at an excerpt from their report:

"Americans burn 175 billion gallons of fuel driving 3 trillion miles a year. If we could make the roads across the nation slightly smoother, we could likely save at least 4 percent of the fuel consumed. This could reduce annual vehicle fuel consumption by about 7 billion gallons, equivalent to taking over 10 million vehicles off the road every year."

So, if pavement smoothness is a big part of the equation, which pavement is better for highway construction - concrete or asphalt? Of the studies done by both concrete and asphalt advocates, it seems as if the reports are comparing apples to oranges and that a more controlled experiment would need to be done in order to pick a clear-cut winner.

But one thing that has been noted is that in general, asphalt pavement is smoother than concrete. This is supported by smoothness standards that states have in place to manage the quality of finished paving projects. The smoothness requirements for asphalt roads are more stringent than for concrete roads - mainly because of the inherent features of each of the materials. Plain and simple, it's easier to produce smoother asphalt roads.

Whether it's concrete or asphalt, the facts are clear - smooth pavement means less fuel consumption and less wear and tear on your vehicle, which saves you money in the end.

###

Wolf Paving, an asphalt manufacturer and asphalt paving contractor has been proudly serving the greater Milwaukee and Madison area since 1941.

Asphalt Maintenance Tips - Removing Mulch and Oil Stains

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:36:00 GMT

Summer means more than just fun in the sun. It's a time for landscaping and gardening means laying down mulch. Now what does this have to do with asphalt and paving?

Using colored mulch can leave stains on your driveway or parking lot. Once you notice the stain from the mulch, you may begin noticing other stains from oil and grease. To keep your driveway looking clean and fresh, here are some tips on removing those stains.

With a colored stain, the cleaning process is simpler than cleaning an oil stain. The stain will wear away over time but for immediate results, follow these simple steps:

Rinse the surface with water but do not power wash the stain because the high pressure can drive the stain deeper into the pavement.
Apply soap or vinegar to the surface and scrub the soap into the surface with a brush using circular motions.
Rinse the soap and dye away using a low pressure rinse.If the stain still persists:
Mix 2 capfuls of bleach into 2 gallons of warm water. Scrub the bleach solution into the stain using the small circular motions again. Completely cover the stain with the bleach and allow it to sit for 30 minutes.
Wash away the bleach solution using a low pressure rinse.

To avoid mulch stains, watch the weather. If there is rain in the forecast, hold off on having the mulch delivered till dry weather comes. Rain makes the dye on the mulch bleed onto the pavement.

There are a few different options for removing an oil stain from your asphalt pavement.

If dealing with a stain that still has excess oil on the surface, blot up the oil as best as possible. This can be easily done by sprinkling kitty litter over the entire stain and allowing the oil to soak into the kitty litter. When the excess oil is soaked up, the litter can be swept up and disposed of.

To remove the stain, the most popular method is using Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP). Create the paste using TSP and water to desired thickness. Scrub the paste onto the stain using a long brush. Allow the paste to sit for thirty minutes and then rinse it off with water.

Using commercial degreasers can be effective as well. Avoid using degreaser with solvents, it will only hurt the driveway more. Follow the directions on the bottle and scrub the degreaser into the stain to break down the oil and rinse it off with water.

For further information about asphalt maintenance, contact the paving experts at Wolf Paving.

###

Wolf Paving, an asphalt manufacturer and asphalt paving contractor has been proudly serving the greater Milwaukee and Madison area since 1941.

5 Reasons To Consider Asphalt Paving

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 16:09:00 GMT

Asphalt pavement is important for many reasons. In previous blog posts, we have discussed various tips and the benefits of different asphalt paving solutions, as well as how to maintain your asphalt with sealcoating and crack sealer. Here are some more interesting facts about asphalt that are worth taking note of:

Versatility – Because of its strength and flexibility, asphalt can be used for driveways, highways, parking lots and even for track beds that provide a safe base for high-speed passenger trains or heavy shipments. Asphalt pavement is also used worldwide as a solution for water storage, flood control and erosion.
Safety – The smoothness of asphalt pavement gives vehicle tires superior contact with the road. Open-graded asphalt allows water to drain through the surface and off to the sides, reducing the amount of splash made from vehicles.
Noise Reduction – Simply put, asphalt is quiet pavement. Traffic volume is reduced by 50%, or 3 decibels when using asphalt paving.
Sustainability – Asphalt pavements are America’s most recycled product. The asphalt is able to be reused/renewed, which reduces the cost on highways and the need for new materials.
Longevity – When asphalt pavements are maintained properly, with yearly crack sealing and sealcoating every 2-3 years, the life of the asphalt parking lot, driveway or highway will increase.

For your next commercial or residential paving project, consider asphalt pavement and take advantage of the many benefits it offers. For more information or for a free quote, contact the professionals at Wolf Paving.

###

Wolf Paving, an asphalt manufacturer and asphalt paving contractor has been proudly serving the greater Milwaukee and Madison area since 1941.

Sealcoating Your Driveway - Tips and Benefits

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 17:08:00 GMT

With warmer weather comes maintenance and repairs to parking lots and driveways. Sealcoating your parking lot or driveway is an easy way to extend the life of the asphalt and improve the curb appeal of your property - saving you money in the long run.

A properly installed, quality sealcoat product will protect the asphalt from fuel, oil, weather and traffic wear. If sealcoating is avoided, cracks can start forming in the asphalt, which then leads to potholes.

A crack sealer should be applied to cracks before sealcoating to prevent them from growing and further damaging your asphalt parking lot or driveway. Asphalt parking lots and driveways should be seal coated every 2-3 years. Cracks should be filled and repaired every year.

Sealcoating a commercial parking lot should be done by paving and sealcoating professionals, but for those do-it-yourselfers who want to sealcoat their driveway, the process can be summed up in these steps:

Patch large cracks larger than 1/4 inch wide
Be sure it is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and rain isn't expected for a day or two
Clean your driveway with a push broom - spray dust away with water
Clean oil spots with a commercial detergent - spray clean with water
Let your driveway dry for an hour before spreading sealcoating
Mix sealcoating thoroughly
Pour and spread the sealant - spreading a 20 square foot section at a time with overlapping strokes. Be sure to spread a thin coat so it drys effectively
Stay off your driveway for 24-48 hours

If you're unsure if your driveway or parking lot needs to be sealcoated, or if doing-it-yourself isn't for you, contact Wolf Paving for an evaluation and a free quote. We'd be happy to help you with any of your paving or maintenance needs.

###

Wolf Paving, an asphalt manufacturer and asphalt paving contractor has been proudly serving the greater Milwaukee and Madison area since 1941.