We hate traffic noise. It’s not about one’s likes and dislikes alone but it has a severe implication on our health and well-being. You might have seen a “No Horn” sign surrounding a healthcare facility. Premier Paving MD, one of the trusted driveway contractors in Baltimore, claims asphalt paving reduces the noise level significantly
How much noise can it reduce?
Asphalt driveway reduces the noise to almost 50% as compared to the driveway constructed using Portland cement concrete (PCC). Thus, without reducing your traffic volume, the change in pavement material can help you build a quieter environment.
What characteristics attribute to the silent behavior of asphalt?
Asphalt is porous and has high elasticity that helps in reducing the friction between the tires of the vehicle and the driveway. It contracts and expands depending upon the pressure and external temperature. The leading asphalt contractors in Baltimore follow an SOP (standard operation procedure) for the asphalt-concrete mixture preparation. The porosity and elasticity are improved by increasing the ratio of the number of air voids to the volume. The mixture is called open-graded friction courses (OGFC). It also helps in water drainage, which is important for the durability of the driveway.
How to optimize the asphalt paving to reduce noise further?
Mixing recycled tires with the asphalt mixture produced rubberized asphalt, which is even more flexible. Rubberized asphalt driveways have shown a 50%-90% reduction in noise in most of the tests across the world.
Does the thickness of the asphalt driveway affect the noise level?
Yes. The thickness affects the flexibility of the overall road. Asphalt contractors in Baltimore define the thickness wisely by taking into consideration stress (traffic load at a time), the elastic modulus of asphalt, and the strain produced by the load. For different pavement jobs – driveways, parking lots, etc. – a different combination is required.
How does driveway noise affect the environment?
Vehicular noise has a big contribution to the overall noise generated in the environment. Noise pollution affects every living being on the planet from humans to birds. It triggers Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL), high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep disturbances, and stress, to name a few. High-intensity sound induces fear, which forces birds, marine and other species to abandon their habitat.
Together we can make a difference
Containing noise is a collective responsibility of everyone from driveway contractors in Baltimore to governments, investors, and everyone who drives on the road, and everyone who inhabits the planet. Yes, everyone including you can contribute to the sustainable development goals. If you own a vehicle, here is how you can make a difference.
- Do not skip the vehicle’s routine service or maintenance
- Maintain the right aerodynamics (tire air pressure)
- Drive at the recommended speed
- Slow down your vehicle when passing through areas with hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and schools.
The UKNA report establishes a measurable link between traffic noise and speed. In urban areas with speeds of between 20 and 35 mph, reducing speeds by 6 mph would cut noise levels by up to 40%.”
Let’s work together and make a better world!