Blog

If you’re planning a commercial build on the Central Coast, whether it’s a retail center, warehouse, or office space, your project has to start with grading. Without proper grading, your site can face water problems, foundation cracks, and delays before the build even starts. At Betz Works, we’ve graded everything from hillside lots in Aptos to flat commercial pads in Carmel. Here’s what grading involves, why it matters, and how we get it done in Santa Cruz. Key Takeaways Grading shapes the land, controls water flow, and creates a stable base for commercial construction. The grading process includes rough grading… Read More »

Before you start building a home, ADU, garage, or commercial space, you need to prepare the site. Proper site preparation provides your foundation with the stability it needs, maintains drainage control, and helps you avoid costly issues in the future. At Betz Works, we bring decades of experience in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties to every job. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to get your land construction-ready. Key Takeaways Site preparation includes land clearing, demolition, grading, excavation, trenching, compaction, and drainage systems. Santa Cruz and Monterey sites require knowledge of local soil conditions, coastal erosion… Read More »

Preparing a building pad is the first and most important step when constructing a new home, garage, or outbuilding. With decades of experience across Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties, we know a well-prepared site is the key to a successful build. This guide walks you through each step of building pad preparation for a concrete slab foundation. Key Takeaways A properly prepared building pad is critical to avoid foundation cracks, uneven settling, and drainage problems. To prepare a building pad, clear the site, excavate, add fill, compact in layers, grade for drainage, lay a gravel base, and set… Read More »

If you’re thinking of paving your asphalt driveway, you’ll likely face some unique challenges: clay-heavy soils, sloped terrain, drainage issues, and strict permitting. Due to these factors, it’s important you work with a contractor who understands how to build pavement that stays level, drains well, and holds up over time. Hire the wrong one, and you could end up with cracks, soft spots, and costly repairs. Here’s how to choose the right asphalt paving contractor for your San Jose project. Key Takeaways Hire a licensed, experienced local asphalt paving contractor to ensure your surface drains properly, holds up over time,… Read More »

While there are plenty of reasons to look forward to the end of winter and the beginning of spring in the Bay Area, the condition of the roads is not one. Pothole season in Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and Monterey Counties can be a nightmare for homeowners, commercial property owners, and drivers. Fortunately, it is possible to repair potholes on your property and reduce the chances of them redeveloping. In this blog, we’re sharing everything you need to know about pothole season. Key Takeaways Potholes form as a result of water damage and freeze-thaw cycles. A professional paving company like… Read More »

Sealcoating is one of the best ways to extend the lifespan of your driveway. Waiting too long to reseal your driveway can lead to further damage and deterioration, so timing is essential when scheduling a sealcoating project. In this blog, we’ll explore what time of year is best for sealcoating and share the signs that your driveway is in need of sealing. Key Takeaways Your driveway should be resealed every two to three years or when you notice fading, cracks, or water absorption. Summer is the ideal season for sealcoating in the Santa Cruz and Monterey areas because it offers… Read More »

Trees can enhance your property’s curb appeal and increase the value of your home. However, they can also damage your driveway if their roots spread underneath the asphalt. Our team at Betz Works has years of experience repairing driveways that have been impacted by growing tree roots. In this guide, we’ll explore how tree roots can harm driveways and what you can do to fix the damage. Key Takeaways Tree roots can spread underneath driveways, leading to cracks, heaves, and unevenness in the surface. To repair the damage, you can trim small roots, install a root barrier, and seal the… Read More »

Erosion takes a toll on asphalt along California’s central coast—Highway 1 is a prime example, with frequent closures from landslides and cliff erosion. Those same forces can quietly damage home driveways, too. At Betz Works, we have years of experience addressing erosion-related asphalt paving and repair needs throughout Santa Cruz & Monterey Counties, Santa Clara County, and the surrounding areas. We created this guide to help you recognize the early signs of erosion and walk you through the steps to repair and protect your asphalt. How Erosion Affects Asphalt Asphalt may look tough on the surface, but its durability also… Read More »

Maintaining a commercial building is a massive undertaking. We have many years of experience working with commercial properties, so we know how much time and effort it takes to keep up with maintenance tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about commercial property maintenance, from routine upkeep to preventive strategies. Key Takeaways Professional property maintenance covers your HVAC system, electrical system, plumbing, building exterior, and parking lot. Regular preventative maintenance is the key to operating a safe, comfortable, and functional commercial property. Hiring professionals promotes safety, reduces the risk of emergencies, and enhances tenant… Read More »

As a residential or commercial property owner, it’s important to understand the difference between a pothole and a sinkhole. Both problems require repair, but sinkholes can present a serious threat to people, vehicles, and the property itself. In this blog, we’ll discuss the key differences between potholes and sinkholes and what you should do if you encounter either on your property. Key Takeaways Potholes form at the surface of the pavement due to water damage, temperature changes, and heavy traffic. Sinkholes are caverns that develop underground until the surface eventually collapses. Sinkholes can be incredibly dangerous, so you should contact… Read More »

A high-quality asphalt paving job can last for decades. However, if your contractor uses the wrong materials or applies the asphalt incorrectly, you may start noticing problems within just a few weeks or months. In this guide, we’ll explain the most common signs of a bad asphalt job so that you can identify and fix issues in your driveway as quickly as possible. Key Takeaways Rushed prep work, lack of grading, and lack of compaction are warning signs that your contractor is not performing high-quality work. Damage such as cracks and rutting indicate that the job was done incorrectly. Look… Read More »

Asphalt is built to last, but it still requires regular maintenance. If you notice cracks forming in your asphalt driveway or parking lot, you should repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Crack sealing is the best way to restore asphalt. This guide will help you understand what crack sealing is, how it works, and why it’s so effective for asphalt repair. Key Takeaways Crack sealing protects asphalt from damage and deterioration. Sealants can withstand pavement movements as the temperature changes, so the results last for many years. To be performed correctly, crack sealing requires careful preparation… Read More »

Culverts play a valuable role in our infrastructure. If your residential or commercial property has a culvert, it’s essential that you keep it in good working condition. We’re here to help you understand how culverts work, how they can sustain damage, and what you can do to repair and maintain your property’s culverts. Key Takeaways Culverts allow for proper water drainage and protect our infrastructure and the surrounding ecosystems. Culverts can become weakened or damaged from corrosion, abrasion, extreme weather, or changes to the surrounding infrastructure. There are many ways to repair a culvert, and the project is best handled… Read More »

When planning a paving project, it’s helpful to know what types of materials are available and what those materials are composed of. This allows you to make an informed decision on the best products to use for your project. Asphalt is one of the most commonly used paving materials because of its flexibility, durability, and long lifespan. In this blog, we’ll explain what exactly asphalt is made of and what occurs during the manufacturing process. Key Takeaways Asphalt pavement is a combination of aggregates, which are solid mineral materials, and a binder, which is the sticky substance holding the minerals… Read More »

If you’re in need of a new driveway, you might be considering gravel. A gravel driveway offers a number of benefits and is a fairly easy and budget-friendly project. To know if gravel is the right material for you, you should understand what it is, what types are available, and what happens during the installation process. We’re here to explain everything you need to know. Key Takeaways Gravel is composed of crush stone or rock ranging from 2 millimeters to 3 inches in diameter. Gravel is cost-effective and ideal for long or rural driveways, but they can make plowing difficult… Read More »

When it comes to paving surfaces, blacktop and asphalt are terms used interchangeably, but they aren’t exactly the same. Understanding the distinctions between blacktop and asphalt is the first step to making an informed decision about your paving needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between blacktop and asphalt so you can decide which is right for your application. Key Takeaways The differences between asphalt and blacktop include their composition and application; blacktop contains more crushed stone and is primarily used for roads that experience lighter traffic. Asphalt is durable and strong, making it ideal for highways, airport runways,… Read More »

Maintaining your asphalt driveway is an essential part of homeownership, but deciding whether to seal it can be challenging. At Betz Works, we’ve been providing asphalt paving services to California residents since 1958. We’ve compiled this quick guide to help you understand the pros and cons of sealing your driveway. Key Takeaways Driveway sealing involves adding a protective layer to an asphalt driveway. This helps guard against damage from weather, chemicals, and daily wear and tear. Sealing your driveway can make it last longer by protecting it from cracks, potholes, and weather damage. On the downside, sealing your driveway can… Read More »

Have you recently installed a paver walkway, patio, or driveway? Are you looking for a way to make it last as long as possible? If so, sealing your pavers is the next step. Here at Betz Works, we’ve been providing paving and sealcoating services to California customers for decades, and we’ve compiled our extensive knowledge into this guide. Key Takeaways To seal pavers, start by cleaning and preparing the surface. Next, repair and refill joints, apply the sealant, and allow the area to cure.  To ensure a successful job, only seal your pavers during dry weather at least 1-3 months… Read More »

Are there large cracks, potholes, or other structural problems in your driveway? If so, it could be time to replace your paved surface. Here at Betz Works, we’ve been providing paving and sealcoating services to California homeowners for more than 30 years.  We’ve compiled our expertise into this comprehensive guide to help you learn how to replace your driveway on your own. Key Takeaways To replace your driveway, start by planning and preparing for the project. Next, gather the tools and equipment you’ll need, prepare the site, prepare the base layer, lay the driveway material, add finishing touches like texture… Read More »

If you manage a commercial property, proper parking lot striping is one of the most important steps you can take to improve the safety and appearance of your lot. At Betz Works, we’ve been paving and striping parking lots across Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties for decades. Here’s our complete guide to doing it right. Key Takeaways Parking lot striping keeps your property safe, organized, and compliant while improving curb appeal. To stripe a parking lot, prepare the surface, plan the layout, choose the right paint and equipment, apply the lines, let them dry, and add finishing details…. Read More »

Los Gatos, CA, is known for being a picturesque community full of beautiful homes. It’s no wonder that the residents care so much about maintaining their properties.  One significant part of this maintenance is asphalt paving. Fortunately, our team is here to help. We provide professional asphalt paving services for Los Gatos and the surrounding communities, including zip codes 95030, 95032, and 95033. This guide outlines everything you need to know about creating and maintaining your paved surfaces.  Understanding Asphalt Paving and Its Uses Before we discuss the benefits of asphalt paving, let’s outline the process itself: Asphalt is a… Read More »

Are you researching the ideal paving material for your driveway or parking lot? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Betz Works, we’ve been providing asphalt paving services to Santa Cruz County residents since 1958. We help commercial and residential customers install beautiful, durable asphalt structures every day. In this blog, we’ve distilled our expertise into a comprehensive guide to asphalt paving. Key Takeaways Asphalt is a semi-solid form of petroleum used for paving roads and other hard surfaces.  Asphalt paving involves a variety of steps, including demolishing, grading, and preparing the site, applying and rolling the… Read More »

Are you starting a paving project? Are you wondering whether asphalt or concrete is best for your driveway? If so, you’re not alone.  Each material has its pros and cons, and deciding on the right material for your driveway depends on a variety of factors. Here at Betz Works, we’ve been providing reliable asphalt paving services for California Bay Area & Central Coast customers since 1958. In this blog, we’re breaking down our expertise to help you decide whether concrete or asphalt fits your project better.  Key Takeaways Asphalt and concrete are both popular driveway materials. For most applications, however,… Read More »

There are many different forms of commercial paving, and choosing the right one is essential for the longevity of your paving project. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Here at Betz Works, we’ve been providing commercial paving services since 1958. We’ve compiled all of our knowledge into this comprehensive guide to help you learn which commercial paving option is right for you. Key Takeaways While there are many commercial paving options, asphalt paving is generally considered the best choice because it’s cost-effective, natural, able to reduce noise pollution, and can be laid in warm weather. Choosing the… Read More »

Your driveway is a critical part of your home, so it’s important to keep it in good shape. While asphalt driveways provide superior longevity and durability, they still require maintenance.  Fortunately, we’re here to help you care for yours.  We’ve been a trusted local asphalt contractor since 1958, and we’re here to provide actionable tips to help you preserve the quality of your driveway. Key Takeaways To maintain your asphalt driveway, follow basic maintenance tips like cleaning and sealcoating it regularly and fixing problems like cracks and sinkholes as soon as you notice them. Address other types of damage, like… Read More »

Maintaining a parking lot may seem like a mundane chore. That said, it can save your business time and money in the long run.  Don’t worry, though – you don’t have to navigate the process on your own. At Betz Works, we’ve been providing asphalt paving services since 1958.  In this blog, we’re sharing our comprehensive knowledge to help you learn how to maintain your asphalt parking lot. Key Takeaways To maintain your parking lot, sweep and clean it regularly, remove standing water, remove oil and gas stains, seal the asphalt, fill all cracks, fix crumbling asphalt, stripe the surface… Read More »

Driveway sinkholes aren’t just an eyesore; they’re potential hazards that can expand and become dangerous if not promptly addressed. For over 30 years, the team here at Betz Works has specialized in asphalt paving and repair, and we’ve distilled our expertise into this comprehensive guide designed to walk you through the steps needed to repair a sinkhole in your asphalt driveway. Key Takeaways Assessing the sinkhole’s size and cause is crucial before beginning repairs. To repair a sinkhole in an asphalt driveway, prepare the area, assess the sinkhole’s interior, prepare the foundation, fill the sinkhole, and allow ample time for… Read More »

As a homeowner, applying sealant is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prolong the life of your asphalt driveway and enhance its appearance.  Sealing your driveway protects it from harsh weather and oil stains, extends its lifespan, and saves you money on future repairs.  Here at Betz Works, we have more than 30 years of experience in the asphalt industry, and we’ve compiled some of our knowledge into this comprehensive guide, which will teach you how to seal your asphalt driveway. Keep reading.  Key Takeaways To seal an asphalt driveway, prepare the driveway surface, apply the sealant,… Read More »

When it comes to driveway materials, asphalt is a great choice. It’s flexible and more affordable than concrete. That said, it does need repair and maintenance to continue looking and performing its best. If it’s time to repair your asphalt driveway, you’re probably wondering what to expect. What are the steps? Should you DIY it or hire a professional for help? At Betz Works, we’ve provided quality paving services to residents of Santa Cruz, California for over 30 years, so we know what it takes to repair and maintain asphalt driveways. In this blog, we share our step-by-step asphalt repair… Read More »

Installing a new parking lot or repaving your old one is a big deal. In addition to being a significant investment, it can cost your company downtime. Fortunately, choosing the right paving contractor can help you streamline the process and get a beautiful finished product. At Betz Works, we’ve been providing asphalt paving services for more than 30 years, so we know what it takes to create beautiful, functional commercial parking lots. In this blog, we’ll walk you through each step of the parking lot paving process and help you learn what you need to do to ensure excellent results…. Read More »

You want an attractive, freshly paved driveway, but you’re unsure where to start. At Betz Works, we have over 50 years of combined experience in the asphalt industry, so we know what it takes to create a beautiful, paved surface. In this blog, we’re sharing our step-by-step process for laying asphalt, including what equipment you’ll need and how to ensure your surface lasts as long as possible. Key Takeaways To lay asphalt like a professional, you’ll need evaluate the existing surface (dirt, baserock, asphalt) to determine what prep work needs to be done prior to paving. Dirt will need to… Read More »

Do you have a driveway you need paved? If so, you need a reliable, experienced paving contractor you can trust. Unfortunately, finding that contractor can be easier said than done. Don’t worry, though – you’re not alone. At Betz Works, we have more than 30 years of experience in the asphalt paving industry, and we know what it takes to provide excellent paving services.  In this blog, we’re sharing tips for finding the right paving contractor for your project and information about what red flags to avoid. What to Consider When Choosing a Paving Contractor Finding a reliable paving contractor… Read More »

Driveway erosion is every homeowner’s worst enemy.  Unfortunately, it’s impossible to prevent 100%. It’s also common – especially for concrete and asphalt driveways.  Don’t worry, though – there are things you can do to prevent erosion – even if you live in a rainy or humid environment! Here at Betz Works, we’ve been helping clients throughout Northern California maintain their driveways and prevent erosion for over 30 years.  In this blog, we’ll discuss steps you can take to stop erosion and how to keep your driveway stable, beautiful, and in good condition for years to come.  What Causes Erosion? Water… Read More »

Summer is the best time to winterize your driveway in California. Warm, dry weather makes it easy to clean, inspect, and seal your driveway before cold weather causes damage. Fixing small issues now helps prevent bigger, more expensive problems later. At Betz Works, we’ve been paving and protecting driveways in California’s Central Coast and the Bay Area for over 50 years. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps we recommend to get your driveway ready for winter. Key Takeaways Protect your California driveway by winterizing it before cold, wet weather causes cracks and erosion. Clean the surface, check… Read More »