Cracked Asphalt in Las Vegas? Overlay vs. Full Replacement

The desert sun shines bright but casts a harsh shadow on your asphalt surfaces. Intense heat, coupled with heavy traffic flow and constant wear, means that your once-smooth asphalt can quickly turn into a cracked, cratered eyesore. Asphalt overlays in Las Vegas can potentially be a smarter option to consider before costly full replacements. The Terra Contracting team are experts in all asphalt services with over 30 years of experience in providing quality workmanship to Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Boulder City, and the surrounding areas.

Why Choose Overlays in Las Vegas?

Asphalt overlay involves applying a new layer of asphalt directly on top of the existing surface, effectively creating a fresh, protective cap. This cost-effective technique addresses minor cracks, improves drainage, and enhances curb appeal. Las Vegas presents unique challenges for asphalt. The extremely hot temperatures cause cracks to expand rapidly, while flash flooding can carve out potholes. Overlays offer several advantages for combating these local concerns:

  • Cost-effective: Compared to complete replacements, overlays are significantly cheaper, which can ultimately save you thousands of dollars.
  • Time-efficient: The overlay installation is quicker, meaning less disruption to your business or daily routine.
  • Extended lifespan: With proper care, an overlay can add years to your asphalt’s life, delaying the need for a full replacement.
  • Improved safety: Smoother surfaces minimize tripping hazards and improve traction, creating a safer environment for pedestrians and vehicles.

Is an Overlay Right for You?

Not all asphalt surfaces are candidates for overlays. If your asphalt is severely cracked, has deep ruts, or suffers from structural issues, complete replacement may be necessary. However, overlays are ideal for:

  • Asphalt with minor to moderate cracking
  • Surfaces showing signs of wear and tear
  • Faded or discolored asphalt
  • Areas needing improved drainage or reflectivity

While asphalt overlays can offer a temporary solution for minor surface imperfections, at Terra Contracting, we often recommend a complete asphalt redo for several reasons:

  • Long-term Cost-Effectiveness: While overlays might seem inexpensive upfront, they often require more frequent maintenance, and may not fully address underlying structural issues. A complete redo, while initially more expensive, offers a longer lifespan and reduces the need for future repairs, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
  • Addressing Underlying Problems: Overlays simply mask existing problems, like drainage issues or base failure, which can resurface and worsen over time. A complete redo allows us to address these underlying issues at the foundation, ensuring a more stable and durable asphalt surface.
  • High-Quality Materials and Techniques: Terra Contracting utilizes the latest techniques and the highest-grade materials for our asphalt installations. A complete redo allows us to implement these practices from the ground up, guaranteeing a longer-lasting, high-performing asphalt surface you can depend on.

Asphalt overlays may seem appealing to companies looking to save money, however, overlays do not fully address potential underlying structural issues. If you’re looking for a long-term solution for your asphalt needs, Terra Contracting strongly recommends considering a complete redo. It may be a larger initial investment, but it’s an investment in the future quality and longevity of your asphalt surface or parking lot. Contact us today for a complimentary inspection or you may click here to request a bid.