Asphalt Milling
With years of hands-on experience operating milling equipment on commercial properties across Sacramento, CA, the crew at Serrato Asphalt delivers precision asphalt milling that prepares surfaces for long-lasting overlays and resurfacing. As a third-generation asphalt family, we’ve developed the problem-solving instincts and technical skill to handle milling jobs of every size — from small parking lot sections to full-scale commercial surfaces. Every milling project is completed by our own crew, with no work handed off to subcontractors.
What Is Asphalt Milling?
Asphalt milling — also called cold planing or pavement milling — is the process of mechanically removing the top layer of an asphalt surface to a specified depth. This technique is used to eliminate deteriorated or uneven pavement before installing a fresh overlay, restoring grade and drainage, or preparing a surface for reconstruction.
Unlike full removal, milling preserves the structural base while eliminating the worn surface layer. The milled material (reclaimed asphalt pavement, or RAP) is recyclable, making milling one of the more environmentally responsible paving methods available.
Types of Asphalt Milling
- Full-Depth Milling – Removes the entire asphalt surface layer down to the aggregate base, typically used before full reconstruction or base repair
- Partial-Depth Milling – Removes only the top 1–3 inches of worn asphalt while preserving the structurally sound layers beneath
- Profile Milling – Corrects surface irregularities, ruts, and uneven areas to restore proper grade and drainage patterns
- Selective Milling – Targets specific deteriorated sections of a lot rather than milling the entire surface
Our Milling Process
- Surface Evaluation – We assess the existing pavement to determine milling depth, identify base issues, and plan the scope of work
- Equipment Mobilization – Our milling machines are sized to your project — we bring the right equipment rather than the easiest equipment
- Precision Milling – We mill to specified depths with consistent passes, maintaining proper cross-slope and drainage grades throughout
- Material Removal – Milled material is loaded out and removed from the site for recycling
- Surface Prep for Overlay – We sweep and blow down milled surfaces to ensure a clean, bondable face ready for new asphalt installation
Benefits of Professional Milling in Sacramento, CA
- Restores Drainage Grades – Sacramento Valley heat and winter rain cycles make proper drainage critical; milling corrects grades that have shifted over time
- Extends Pavement Life – A clean milled surface bonds far better with new asphalt than a direct overlay on deteriorated pavement
- Cost-Effective Alternative – Milling and overlay costs significantly less than full rip-out-and-replace while delivering excellent results when the base is sound
- Environmentally Responsible – Reclaimed asphalt material is recycled and reused, reducing landfill waste and raw material demand
- Preserves Existing Infrastructure – Milling avoids raising surface elevations that could affect curb heights, drainage inlets, and building thresholds
Why Choose Serrato Asphalt for Milling
- Expert Problem Solvers – Our craftsmen are trained to identify hidden base issues during milling before they become expensive surprises
- No Subcontractors – One of the only Sacramento-area contractors completing milling projects fully in-house
- Family-Owned Accountability – When the Serrato name is on the project, quality isn’t optional
- Financing Available – We offer financing to help property managers and commercial owners manage larger project scopes
- Seasonal Promotions – Spring and fall sales make it an ideal time to schedule milling and overlay projects
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if milling is right for my property?
Milling is the right choice when your pavement shows surface deterioration but the underlying base is still structurally sound. If you’re seeing rutting, cracking, or drainage problems without widespread base failure, milling and overlay is often the most cost-effective path forward.
Do you serve commercial properties outside West Sacramento?
Yes. Our milling crews serve Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove, Rocklin, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, and all surrounding Sacramento Valley communities.
Related Services
Milling is typically the first step in a larger pavement rehabilitation project. Explore our related services:
- Professional asphalt overlay services – New asphalt installation directly following milling for a like-new surface
- Parking lot paving services – Full commercial lot construction for properties requiring new or replacement surfaces
- Asphalt repair services – Address base failures and structural damage discovered during the milling process
- Pavement maintenance – Protect your newly milled and paved surface with a structured maintenance program
Schedule Your Milling Evaluation
If your Sacramento, CA commercial property is showing signs of surface deterioration, milling may be the most efficient and cost-effective solution. Contact Serrato Asphalt today for a professional evaluation and free project estimate. Financing is available, and we offer veteran and senior discounts.
Call (916) 870-5984 or Contact Us to get started.
