We at J. Gardner & Sons, Inc. are a full service asphalt construction contractor, specializing in commercial, industrial and large residential projects – there is no job too big or small!

What is Asphalt?

Asphalt, an environmentally sustainable material, comes in a wide array of product types and applications. It’s durable, provides a smooth service for protecting vehicles, improves traction and happens to be the most recycled material in the United States.

What is hot mix asphalt?

Also known as blacktop, asphalt pavement or hot mix pavement. Asphalt is an engineered mixture of aggregates : Crushed stone, Gravel, Sand and Liquid Asphalt.

What is the difference between binder and top coat?

Binder, or base coat, is known as the load bearing coarse and typically contains 3/4” stone. It is the foundation for the upper pavement structure. It must offer excellent bearing capacity, be capable of withstanding a broad range of different climatic conditions, and remain functional over several decades. The Top coat, or finish, typically contains 3/8″ stone and is known for the smoother finish which is applied over the binder coat.

Preparing for Asphalt Construction

For your area, we start with proper removal and disposal of any materials such as concrete, loose gravel, or foliage. We will evaluate the soil to determine if it is healthy enough for an asphalt application and apply more soil to the area if necessary.

Grading, Sloping & Compacting

Then, we evaluate the grade, or slope, of the project surface. Before pouring asphalt, it is important to determine how water runs in that particular area. Grading will ensure a level base and foundation for your new surface and will promote drainage run-off. J. Gardner and Sons believe that ¼ inch per foot is optimal slope. For naturally flat surfaces, we recommend creating a small hill in the center to encourage run-off to spill down the sides. This will help protect your new asphalt from cracking. After water or snow accumulation. Once graded and leveled, our qualified team of professionals will compact the base soil specific to the asphalt application before applying a layer of crushed rock, which serves as a secondary base over the compacted soil. It’s important for this second layer of rock and gravel to settle. The stone base will be rolled to compact with a heavy vibratory roller to ensure a well prepared surface.

Applying (the correct) Asphalt

Next, we will apply the asphalt at a pre-determined thickness. The use and activity level of the new asphalt surface will determine how thick the asphalt application needs to be. Parking heavier trucks or RVs, for example, will require thicker (2-inch) application. The size of the aggregate (the stones, sand, and gravel that are held together by asphalt cement) is also determined by the intended use of the new surface. Residential asphalt will use smaller aggregate, which provides a smoother surface. An industrial site may prefer a large aggregate for the asphalt, which supports heavier equipment.

Don't Delay, Call J Gardner & Sons Today!

Contact J. Gardner and Sons, Inc. today to schedule a free quote for your next asphalt construction project. Don't forget, we service customers all over Niagara County and Erie County!