May 1, 2025

Why Recycled Asphalt Is a Smart Choice For Residential & Commercial Paving

Today’s homeowners and property managers are more conscious than ever about sustainability, cost savings, and long-term value. One of the smartest ways to meet all three goals in a paving project is by using Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP). Total Paving incorporates high-quality recycled asphalt into our residential and commercial paving solutions across Northern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin, delivering exceptional results that are both eco-friendly and budget-friendly.

What Is Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP)?

Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) is made from asphalt that has been removed from existing surfaces such as old driveways, parking lots, or roadways and reprocessed through crushing and screening. This recycled material contains both aggregate and asphalt binder, and when used correctly, it offers performance comparable to brand-new asphalt.

By using RAP in your paving project, you’re not only reducing waste but also investing in a smarter, more sustainable surface for your home or business.

How Total Paving Uses Recycled Asphalt In Projects

Total Paving processes RAP in-house, providing greater control over the quality, consistency, and application of the material. Here’s how we put it to use in ways that benefit our clients:

  • As a base material for driveways and parking lots
  • Blended into new hot mix asphalt for surface layers
  • Used in repair and patching projects to match existing pavement

Our process ensures that only clean, properly screened material is used, meaning you get the look, feel, and durability you expect from a professionally installed asphalt surface.

Benefits Of Recycled Asphalt For Residential & Commercial Clients

1. Lower Project Costs

One of the most immediate benefits of using RAP is cost savings. Recycled asphalt reduces the need for new materials, allowing us to offer more competitive pricing without cutting corners on quality. It’s an ideal solution for budget-conscious homeowners and business owners alike.

2. Sustainable Paving Solution

RAP supports a more environmentally responsible approach to paving. By reducing the demand for new raw materials and minimizing landfill waste, recycled asphalt makes your project part of a larger movement toward sustainable construction practices.

3. Long-Lasting Performance

Thanks to advances in recycling technology, RAP delivers strong, durable surfaces that can withstand regular traffic, Midwest weather, and seasonal temperature changes. When properly installed and maintained, recycled asphalt can offer the same longevity as traditional paving materials.

4. Faster Turnaround Times

Since we handle RAP crushing and screening in-house, we’re able to streamline the production process. This means faster scheduling, quicker installations, and less disruption to your home or business—without compromising on quality.

Is Recycled Asphalt Right For Your Property?

If you’re considering paving a driveway, private roadway, or commercial parking lot, recycled asphalt might be the perfect fit. RAP is especially ideal for:

  • Long or rural driveways
  • Commercial parking areas
  • Farm and utility access roads
  • Overlay projects where budget and performance are both priorities

During your consultation, the Total Paving team will assess your site, discuss your goals, and recommend whether RAP is a good match for your specific project.

Why Choose Total Paving For Eco-Friendly Asphalt Solutions

We don’t just talk about sustainability, we build it into everything we do. At Total Paving, we invest in modern equipment and follow best practices to ensure every paving project meets high standards for quality, value, and environmental responsibility.

When you choose us, you benefit from:

  • Professional in-house RAP processing
  • High-performance asphalt mixes
  • Transparent pricing with no surprise costs
  • Reliable, on-time service from a local team that cares

Total Paving Offers Sustainable RAP Projects In Northern Illinois & Southeastern Wisconsin

If you’re ready to save money, reduce waste, and still get the premium-quality asphalt paving your property deserves, talk to the team at Total Paving. We’re here to help you explore the benefits of recycled asphalt and deliver a solution that works for your space, your goals, and your budget. Get a free quote today for your next smart paving project.