Blogs To Help You

harshest weather conditions in the Midwest. From freezing winter temperatures and heavy snow to intense summer heat and UV exposure, pavement must withstand an extreme range of elements year after year. Without proper protection, asphalt breaks down faster, leading to cracks, fading, potholes, and costly repairs. Sealcoating is one of the most effective and affordable ways to extend the life of your asphalt pavement. This protective layer acts like a shield, guarding the surf

for businesses across Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa, a commercial parking lot is one of the most important parts of the customer experience. It is the first thing visitors see when they arrive, and it plays a major role in safety, accessibility, and the overall perception of a business. Whether you operate a retail center, office building, restaurant, apartment complex, church, or industrial facility, the condition of your parking lot reflects directly on your company. Among

For homeowners and business owners throughout Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa, winter weather is more than an inconvenience—it is one of the biggest factors affecting the lifespan and performance of asphalt pavement. From December through March, temperatures swing dramatically between freezing and thawing, moisture seeps into cracks, and snow removal adds further stress. These conditions can quietly damage asphalt driveways, parking lots, and roadways unless the pavement is pro

For homeowners in Cedar Rapids and across Eastern Iowa, an asphalt driveway is more than a surface to park on. It is part of your home’s curb appeal, a protective foundation for your vehicles, and an investment that should last for many years. But how long should  an asphalt driveway last in Iowa’s climate, and what factors influence its lifespan? This comprehensive guide provides the answers. Backed by more than 40 years of experience at Pate Asphalt, we explain the typical

Top Signs Your Asphalt Driveway Needs Repair

Homeowners in Cedar Rapids and throughout Eastern Iowa face a unique challenge every winter: freezing temperatures, rapid freeze-thaw cycles, snow, ice, and road salts that can degrade driveway surfaces. Choosing the right driveway material is more than just an aesthetic decision. For many homeowners, it directly affects long-term maintenance costs, durability, safety, curb appeal, and how well the surface performs during harsh Iowa winters. Two of the most popular driveway m

When customers pull into your retail or shopping center, their experience begins long before they walk through the door. It starts the moment their tires touch the pavement. A well-designed parking lot  sets the tone for your brand—communicating organization, care, and professionalism. Conversely, cracks, fading lines, or uneven surfaces can signal neglect and leave a poor first impression. That’s why Pate Asphalt , a family-owned and operated paving company serving Cedar Rap

In the world of industrial and manufacturing operations, efficiency and safety are everything. Whether it’s the steady flow of semi-trucks, forklifts moving materials, or employees navigating large work zones, your pavement plays a bigger role in productivity and safety than most realize . A poorly designed or deteriorating surface can disrupt workflow, damage expensive equipment, and even cause injuries—leading to costly downtime and repairs. That’s why so many industrial an

When it comes to maintaining a commercial parking lot or roadway, most business owners think about paving thickness, sealcoating, or maintenance schedules—but forget one of the most crucial elements: drainage . Poor drainage is one of the leading causes of asphalt deterioration , especially in climates like Eastern Iowa , where heavy rain, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles are part of the yearly routine. For over 40 years, Pate Asphalt  has been helping businesses throughout Cedar

When planning a large-scale paving project—whether it’s for a school, hospital, warehouse, or industrial complex —the question always comes up: Should we choose asphalt or concrete? Both materials are durable and widely used, but the right choice depends on climate, maintenance expectations, traffic load, and budget.  In Eastern Iowa , where temperatures swing from freezing winters to humid summers, these factors matter even more. For over 40 years, Pate Asphalt  has helped p

For property managers in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City , your parking lot is often the first impression  customers, employees, and tenants have of your property. A smooth, well-maintained lot communicates professionalism, safety, and attention to detail. On the other hand, cracks, potholes, and fading lines can quickly signal neglect—and lead to costly repairs down the road. The good news? With proactive care and the right maintenance partner, you can extend the lifespan of your

When it comes to maintaining the infrastructure that keeps a community moving, local governments can’t afford to take chances.  Roads, parking lots, and municipal facilities demand not only durability and safety but also a partner that understands the unique challenges of Iowa’s weather and public works standards. For over 40 years, Pate Asphalt  has proudly served Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and surrounding Eastern Iowa communities  as one of the most trusted names in asphalt p

When it comes to creating safe, durable, and visually appealing surfaces for your business, commercial asphalt paving  is one of the smartest investments you can make. From large parking lots to roadways and industrial driveways , well-planned asphalt work not only enhances the look of your property but also ensures long-term functionality and safety. For over 40 years, Pate Asphalt  has been family-owned and operated , proudly serving Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Dubuque, Waterl

For Iowa businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and places of worship, a parking lot is more than just a convenience — it’s often...

When it comes to building and maintaining community spaces in Iowa, durability and safety are non-negotiable. Whether it’s a school...

When heavy rain hits Iowa, parking lots can quickly turn into shallow ponds. Pooling water doesn’t just inconvenience drivers and...

For decades, asphalt has been recognized as one of the most versatile and durable paving materials available. From highways and...

If you live in Iowa, you already know how quickly our weather can shift from one extreme to another. Harsh winters, heavy spring rains,...

For homeowners and farmsteads across rural Iowa, the driveway is more than just a place to park cars. It’s the first impression of your...

When you live in Iowa, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. One week it’s warm enough to enjoy a bike ride in short sleeves,...