Asphalt millings are recycled, crushed asphalt. They are the remnants from old roads, driveways, parking lots, and any other asphalt surfaces that have been removed. Asphalt millings are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional paving using hot asphalt.
Benefits of Asphalt Millings
- Cost-Effective: Typically cheaper than hot asphalt and require less raw material.
- Eco-Friendly: Utilizes recycled materials, reducing the need for virgin asphalt, which conserves resources and reduces overall carbon footprint.
- Durability: Millings compact well, creating a semi-permanent surface that lasts longer than gravel and resists weathering and erosion.
- Low Maintenance: Once settled, millings create a solid surface that requires little maintenance.
- Less Dust: When compacted, millings produce less dust than gravel.
How to Use Asphalt Millings for Driveways and Paving
- Preparation: Remove any existing pavement, debris, or vegetation. Grade the area to ensure proper drainage.
- Laying the Millings: Spread the millings over the prepared surface. Depending on the project size, this can be done with shovels or paving equipment.
- Compaction: Compact the millings to create a dense and durable surface. Rolling with a heavy roller compactor is recommended, and a sealant can be applied to bind the millings together, improving durability and weather resistance.
- Curing Time: Allow the surface to set and harden. During this time, vehicle traffic should be minimized.
Installing a Driveway with Asphalt Millings
- Mark the Area: Define the driveway's boundaries using stakes and string lines.
- Excavation and Grading: Dig out to the required depth (typically 2-3 inches below the desired final surface level). Grade the area for proper drainage.
- Laying Millings: Spread the millings evenly across the prepared area.
- Compaction: Compact the millings to create a solid base. This might require several passes with a roller.
- Sealing: Optionally, apply a sealant to bind the millings and create a smoother surface.
Maintenance of Asphalt Milling Surfaces
- Regular Compaction: Re-compact the surface as needed to prevent loosening and erosion.
- Sealant Application: Apply a commercial-grade asphalt sealant every few years to maintain the integrity and aesthetics of the surface.
- Surface Monitoring: Regularly check for any signs of cracking or degradation. Patch any areas where millings have worn away.
Environmental Considerations
Using asphalt millings is beneficial for the environment as it reduces the demand for new asphalt material and keeps the old material out of landfills. Furthermore, the process of milling and reusing asphalt consumes less energy compared to producing new asphalt, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Equipment Needed
- Compactor: Essential for pressing the millings into a compact and durable surface.
- Paving Equipment (for larger areas): Helps in evenly spreading the millings.
- Dump Truck: Useful for transporting millings to the site.
Common Questions About Asphalt Millings
- Are they right for high-traffic areas? Millings are suitable for driveways and parking areas but may not be the best choice for high-speed or heavy-traffic roads without proper maintenance.
- Can I lay them myself? Yes, with proper tools and preparation, you can lay millings yourself, especially for smaller projects like driveways.
- How long do they last? Properly installed and maintained millings can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years.