Asphalt Overlay

An asphalt overlay is simply the process of installing a new layer of hot mix asphalt directly over existing asphalt. In order to be a candidate for overlay, a pavement should be relatively sound without large areas of base failure. Prior to overlay, pavement repairs and transitions must be made. Cracks should be filled with rubberized crack sealer, and a tack coat applied over the entire surface. A new layer of asphalt is then placed.

An asphalt overlay is the least costly of the reconstruction techniques, but it has definite drawbacks. These include a limited service life, elevation considerations, inability to make drainage corrections, and a tendency to show reflective cracking in a relatively short period of time.

Fabric Overlay

Fabric overlay is a way to delay reflective cracking, although it will not prevent such cracking. Prior to placing a new layer of hot mix asphalt, a geo-textile fabric is embedded in liquid asphalt binder over the entire surface. The fabric/binder combination forms a membrane that helps keep water out of the base. The cost is approximately one-third greater than a basic overlay.

Specification Sheets