Angie's LIST Guide to
Glossary: Garages and Driveways

Asphalt: Asphalt is a paving material created from aggregate minerals that are cemented together with asphalt cement. This type of material can be placed over crushed stone, slag, grave, brick, paving blocks or Portland cement concrete.

This will allow for the asphalt to bond to the pre-existing surface for more desired results and a longer life for the paved area.

Cement: Not to be confused with concrete, cement is a mixture which is created using various different chemicals and Portland lime. This material usually purchased in a dry form and mixed with water.

When the cement is spread out and allowed to dry it creates a hard material which has a strong density level.

Compaction: The process by which soil and paving materials are compressed to reduce or remove air voids. This process creates a more structurally stable surface when it has been compacted and aids in preventing premature damage to the completed paved surface.

Compaction is often completed by using large industrial equipment which has the ability to place great amounts of pressure for the release of trapped air voids

Reflective cracking: Reflective cracking occurs when the base layer of pavement is not properly treated or proper methods are not taken to prevent cracking when pavement expands and contracts due to temperature changes and ground freezing that can take place.

The stress placed on the bottom layer of asphalt will cause cracking which will spread to the top layer of paving materials. These cracks allow moisture to build up and create further damage to occur.

Resurfacing: Resurfacing is the process of improving the look and function of a currently paved surface area. This process involves using paving materials such as asphalt and concrete to provide an improved look for surfaces which are cracked, crumbling, broken or have sustained other visible signs of damage.

Homeowners can resurface their driveways, walkways and other paved surfaces to improve safety for those who walk on them.

Sealing: Sealing is the process of placing a thin asphalt surface treatment over an asphalt wearing surface to provide waterproofing and to improve the texture of the asphalt surface.

Depending on the type of sealer used and its purpose, the sealer may or may not be able to be covered with aggregate.