Glossary

A

Asphalt Overlay

A new layer of asphalt applied over an existing pavement surface to restore functionality and extend pavement life.

Asphalt overlays are cost-effective rehabilitation solutions that involve placing a fresh layer of hot-mix asphalt over deteriorated pavement. This method is commonly used for commercial and municipal properties when the existing base is still structurally sound but the surface has become worn or cracked. Overlays can improve ride quality and appearance while extending the pavement's service life by 10-15 years.

B

Base Course

The foundational layer beneath asphalt pavement that provides structural support and distributes traffic loads to the subgrade.

The base course consists of compacted aggregate materials (gravel, crushed stone) that sit between the subgrade and asphalt surface layer. A properly constructed base course is essential for long-term pavement performance and prevents premature failure from traffic loads and moisture. Assessment and repair of the base course is critical in commercial, industrial, and municipal pavement rehabilitation projects.

C

Crack Sealing

The application of specialized sealant materials into pavement cracks to prevent water infiltration and crack expansion.

Crack sealing is a proactive maintenance technique that prevents small cracks from becoming major structural problems. Professional-grade sealants are heated and injected into cracks to create a waterproof barrier that stops moisture from reaching the base layer. This preventative service is essential for both commercial parking lots and municipal roads to extend pavement lifespan and reduce future repair costs.

F

Full-Depth Reclamation

A pavement rehabilitation process that pulverizes existing asphalt and base materials, then recycles them with new binder.

Full-depth reclamation (FDR) is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective method for severely damaged pavements that extracts and reuses existing materials. The process involves breaking up the old pavement and base, mixing them with new asphalt binder and recycling agent, and compacting the new layer. This technique is particularly valuable for commercial and institutional properties seeking sustainable rehabilitation solutions.

M

Milling

The removal of the top layer of asphalt pavement using specialized equipment to create a smooth surface for overlay or new asphalt.

Asphalt milling is the controlled removal of worn pavement layers to prepare for resurfacing or overlay work. The milled asphalt can often be recycled and reused in new pavement, making it an economical and sustainable solution. Milling is commonly used in commercial and municipal projects to address surface deterioration while preserving the underlying base structure.

P

Pavement Distress

Visible signs of pavement deterioration including cracks, potholes, rutting, and surface wear that indicate structural problems.

Pavement distress encompasses various failure modes that develop from traffic loads, water infiltration, oxidation, and freeze-thaw cycles. Common distress indicators include alligator cracking, longitudinal cracks, potholes, and surface raveling. Early identification and treatment of pavement distress is critical for commercial and municipal properties to prevent expensive full-depth repairs.

Pavement Management

A systematic approach to planning, maintaining, and rehabilitating pavement assets to maximize lifespan and minimize lifecycle costs.

Pavement management involves regular inspections, condition assessments, and strategic maintenance planning to keep commercial, industrial, and municipal pavements in optimal condition. A comprehensive pavement management program prioritizes preventative maintenance like seal coating and crack sealing to extend pavement life. This proactive approach helps property managers budget effectively and avoid costly emergency repairs.

Permitting and Compliance

The process of obtaining necessary approvals and ensuring pavement projects meet local, state, and federal regulations and standards.

Pavement projects in Cincinnati and the tristate area require proper permits and must comply with local building codes, environmental regulations, and municipal specifications. Professional contractors like Abco manage the permitting process and ensure work meets or exceeds all applicable standards for commercial, institutional, and municipal projects. Compliance with regulations protects property owners and ensures project quality and longevity.

Pothole Repair

The process of filling and patching holes in pavement caused by traffic wear, water infiltration, and freeze-thaw cycles.

Potholes form when water seeps into pavement cracks, weakens the base, and is then displaced by vehicle traffic. Professional pothole repair involves cleaning the damaged area, preparing the base, and filling it with quality asphalt or patching material. Timely pothole repairs prevent further deterioration and maintain safe driving conditions for commercial properties and municipalities.

R

Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP)

Recycled asphalt material from milling or demolition projects that can be reused in new pavement construction and rehabilitation.

Reclaimed asphalt pavement is a sustainable and cost-effective material created by grinding up old asphalt from milling operations or demolition sites. RAP can be mixed with virgin asphalt and new binder to create quality new pavement while reducing waste and material costs. Using RAP in commercial and municipal projects demonstrates environmental responsibility while maintaining pavement performance standards.

S

Seal Coating

A protective liquid coating applied to asphalt surfaces to shield against UV rays, water damage, and oxidation.

Seal coating is a preventative maintenance treatment that extends pavement life by protecting the asphalt binder from environmental damage and weathering. The sealant fills small cracks and creates a water-resistant barrier that prevents moisture infiltration and reduces oxidation. Regular seal coating every 2-3 years can add years to pavement life and reduce long-term repair costs.

T

Traffic Control and Safety

Measures and protocols implemented during pavement work to protect workers, traffic, and the public from hazards.

Professional pavement contractors implement comprehensive traffic control plans using signage, barriers, and trained personnel to maintain safety during commercial and municipal projects. Safety protocols protect both construction workers and facility users during repairs and resurfacing work. Experienced contractors like Abco minimize disruption while maintaining the highest safety standards for all stakeholders.