Asphalt is virtually everywhere in the modern world. From parking lots to rooftops, it's nearly impossible to run a business without running into asphalt. Paving and roofing with asphalt are economic and simple solutions for businesses looking to save money - but not at the cost of quality.

For pavement, pothole repair and the like, asphalt materials are a common choice of contractors. For roofing, asphalt shingles are a good choice because they are low maintenance, inexpensive, and have a good lifespan; be aware, though, that asphalt shingles last longer in cooler climates. Consider the following situations for your needs in asphalt:

1. Large-scale projects require the purchase of industrial asphalt equipment and materials.

2. The use of building contractors can simplify large asphalt building projects.

3. Asphalt shingles can be inexpensive solution to roofing your business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get basic asphalt materials for general construction purposes

Asphalt is a staple for large-scale paving jobs. Whether paving or repaving your business driveway, parking lots or patios, the first step is to purchase asphalt for the job. Buy asphalt in bulk for large-scale, industrial jobs or bags of filler asphalt for potholes and cracks.

I recommend: Buy asphalt construction material from Advanced Asphalt Technologies. EZ Street is a repair asphalt provider. Ask for asphalt information from these companies to determine if the material is right for your project.

Work with a building contractor on your business' asphalt construction projects

Large asphalt construction projects will usually require that you hire a building contractor. A building contractor can take a complex task and compartmentalize it into manageable projects. Contractors can also be useful for smaller-scale projects, such as minor asphalt repairs. A quality repair job is well worth the investment in a professional building service.

I recommend: Find an asphalt list of contractors at ImproveNet or Renovation Experts.

Hire a contractor to replace the asphalt shingles of your business' roof

Replacing an entire asphalt roof of shingles can be a difficult task. Unless you are familiar with roofing techniques, hire an asphalt roof contractor to make sure the job is done correctly. Improperly placed asphalt shingles can result in leaky, unstable, and otherwise unsafe roofs, which in turn run up long term costs in water damage and other repairs.

I recommend: Find asphalt contractor roofing quotes from QualitySmith, an asphalt and tar roofing materials contractor. Also search asphalt roof contractors at EveryContractor.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If your business' roof contains vents or chimneys which jut from the top, use care and caution when replacing asphalt shingles around these areas. These weakest spots of the roof are most prone to leakage and water damage. Check to see that the contractor uses the proper sealant materials around the edges to negate any possibilities of leakage.