Commercial FAQs

Below are a few questions that are frequently asked by our new commercial customers.

  1. How does B&C Blacktop estimate costs?
    Every commercial facility is different, so no two solutions are every exactly the same. Consequently we work with our clients and recommend solutions that solve the immediate and anticipate future problems. We meet with our clients, determine together the work that needs to be done, work out the timeframe and agree to a budget. We ensure that our clients get the best solution for the budget allocated. Ultimately our objective is to bring every facility to the point that routine maintenance is routine in both cost and work.
  2. What is the function of seal coat?
    Seal coat has two purposes; protection and aesthetics. As asphalt ages and is driven on, the cement that holds the aggregate wears from between the surface stone. Over time, the wear of tires and weather on the surface and erode the stone as well and open the surface to further deterioration. A coating of sealer retards this process and helps the surface last longer. Seal coat also serves a cosmetic function. The first thing that a client sees upon entering your facility is the driveway and parking areas. A parking area that is faded, poorly striped or in disrepair can create a damaging impression before that person ever sets foot in your door. A good coat of sealer is a silent sales tool that can speak volumes.
  3. How often should I seal coat?
    The frequency of seal coat applications depends primarily on the volume of traffic. Consequently, sealer should be applied every two to four years; more often if traffic is heavy; less often if it is light.
  4. What is the function of crack fill?
    Water is asphalt’s antagonist. It fractures the asphalt by entering cracks and then freezing. As cracks widen, water begins to reach and erodes its limestone (#304) base. Asphalt uses limestone as a base because it compacts with a cement-like consistency that is an ideal support. Unfortunately, limestone is also water soluble; when constantly exposed to water, over time it dissolves. Consequently, preventing water from reaching this base is crucial in maintaining asphalt pavement. This is the primary function of crack filling. By stopping the constant seepage and assault of water into and on asphalt’s limestone base, extensive, frequent repairs can be minimized. B&C Blacktop uses Flex-A-Fill hot crack sealant to ensure a sealant that covers the cracks and stays in place until you’re ready to seal coat and crack fill your pavement again.
  5. What is the function of overlay?
    Overlays are usually done for two reasons; to repair pavement that, if let alone, will deteriorate to the point where it needs to be removed and to direct and maintain proper drainage. The selection of when and where to apply an overlay is an important decision. When done in a timely fashion, overlays are a relatively inexpensive way to prolong the life and appearance of asphalt pavement. When done too late, they can be expensive and, if done incorrectly, a waste of money. B&C Blacktop can help ensure that a decision to overlay is both sensible, necessary, financially judicious and produces the results you need.
  6. Will an overlay crack?
    Eventually, yes.
  7. How does B&C Blacktop repair potholes?
    Potholes are the bane of commercial facility owners. They are ugly and, if not repaired, can damage cars entering and leaving an area. We have two options for pothole repairs. If a pothole is so deep that the base is exposed, we will do a standard cut and patch; cut out the defective area, rebase it and reapply new asphalt. This procedure creates four seams where we cut the defective area in order to remove it. These saw cuts will be crack filled. If the pothole does not reach the base and there is still asphalt present, we will use our infrared (IR) equipment to repair the area. Unlike cut and patch, IR does not require any saw cuts. Instead the existing asphalt is heated to 400° Fahrenheit, rejuvenator is added to restore lost oils, additional asphalt is added and the spot is rolled to grade. This solution produces a seamless patch that requires no crack fill and, because there are no seams, is less susceptible to water penetration.
  8. How does B&C Blacktop schedule the work to minimize inconvenience for my customers?
    B&C Blacktop will work closely with you to get the work done in a timely fashion and at a minimum of inconvenience to yourself and to your clients. We can do this in several ways. We can start early in the morning before the area will be in use. When necessary, we schedule our work over the weekends when traffic is either non-existent or at a minimum. We often seal and/or repair areas in segments. This allows us to inconvenience fewer people for a shorter period. It also allows us to schedule the areas for work methodically such that clients know which areas will receiving attention and when it will occur. Whatever your situation we will work with you to determine what works best for your clients and you.
  9. How long can I expect my asphalt pavement to last?
    B&C Blacktop will work with you to help you get the most out of your investment. Because we do all our own work, we can consult with clients and work with them to create a thorough maintenance schedule. Such a schedule may include seal coat, crack fill, cut and patch, infrared, overlay and any other necessary service. Clients who follow our maintenance schedule can average a life-expectancy of 10 years or longer.