Countless industries and citizens rely on asphalt every day, and to fully understand the scope of its impact on your life, there are a few key facts to know. Whether you’re planning driveway repairs or considering a new parking lot for a commercial shopping center, keep the following facts about asphalt in mind when you’re browsing materials.

3 Important Facts About Asphalt

1. It Has Been Used Since 1870

The first record of the federal use of asphalt paving was in 1870. Willaim Street outside of City Hall in Newark, NJ, was the first asphalt road. The next was Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington D.C., which is the road running in front of the White House.

2. Nearly All Paved Roads Are Asphalt

There are roughly 810,000 miles of asphalt roads throughout the U.S., according to the Federal Highway Administration. Compare that against 56,000 miles of concrete roads and 89,000 miles of the composite. Collectively, this adds up to 18 billion tons of asphalt. 

Asphalt is the most popular material for road paving because it’s cost-effective and offers the smoothest ride and traction. It also cuts down on water spray that contributes to accidents. Asphalt is also used because of its durability. Research has shown that asphalt surfaces of 93% density can last around 20 years. When it comes time for improvements, asphalt is extremely easy to repair, which translates to additional savings.

3. It Has Created Thousands of Jobs

According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, roughly 28,000 jobs are created in the U.S. per $1 billion of federal money spent on asphalt paving. This then translates to jobs created due to building new roads, as well as supply chain improvements and the general connectedness and increased travel abilities that keep the economy running.

For over 35 years, Art Tobasco & Sons Paving has provided asphalt paving services to residential and commercial clients. Located in Montgomery, NY, this locally-owned company handles everything from pouring and paving to seal coating and repairs, which you can explore in detail on their website. Call (845) 778-5584 to speak with a representative or to learn about their septic services. You can connect on Facebook for news and updates.