What Is Asphalt Milling and How Does it Work?

What Is Asphalt Milling?

Asphalt milling, also known as cold milling or profiling, is the process of removing the top layer of asphalt without disturbing the sub-base. This allows our crew to recycle the removed material and apply a fresh layer of asphalt to create a smooth, durable surface. It’s commonly used to repair roads, parking lots, and driveways that have suffered wear and tear over time.

The milling process involves a specialized machine known as a cold planer or milling machine, which uses rotating drums with sharp blades to grind down the surface. The depth of the milling can vary based on the condition of the asphalt and the desired outcome.

In most cases, only the damaged or worn layer is removed, leaving the underlying foundation intact for repaving.

How Does Asphalt Milling Work?

Our asphalt milling services typically follow these basic steps:

1. Inspection and Planning: The first step is to inspect the surface to assess the extent of the damage and determine the depth of milling required. Once this is done, our team creates a plan to execute the milling efficiently.

1. Milling Process: The milling machine grinds the top layer of asphalt at the specified depth, usually between one to four inches. As the asphalt is removed, it’s collected by a conveyor belt and loaded into trucks for recycling. The precision of the milling machine ensures a smooth surface ready for repaving.

1. Recycling the Milled Asphalt: One of the major benefits of asphalt milling is that the removed material can be recycled and reused in new asphalt mixtures. This process not only reduces waste but also lowers the overall cost of the project.

1. Repaving the Surface: Once the milling is complete, a new layer of asphalt is applied. The fresh asphalt bonds with the remaining surface, creating a smooth, durable pavement that looks and performs like new.

Benefits of Asphalt Milling

Pavement milling offers several key benefits that make it an attractive option for property owners:

• Cost-Effective: Since only the damaged top layer is removed, and the material can be recycled, asphalt milling is generally more affordable than complete reconstruction.

• Sustainable: The process significantly reduces waste because the removed asphalt is often reused, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

• Time-Saving: Asphalt milling is a faster process compared to traditional asphalt replacement methods, minimizing disruptions to traffic or property access.

• Preserves the Sub-Base: By only removing the top layer, the underlying foundation remains intact, which helps maintain the structural integrity of the pavement.

Why Choose Asphalt Milling?

If you’re dealing with cracked, uneven, or worn asphalt surfaces, pavement milling might be the perfect solution. It’s a versatile, eco-friendly option that can extend the life of your pavement without the need for a full replacement. Whether you need minor repairs or a complete resurfacing project, asphalt milling offers an effective and sustainable approach to road and parking lot maintenance.