The first thought that often comes to mind when we think “asphalt” is that black material used to pave roads, driveways, and workspaces. Asphalt experts have a surprising amount of knowledge about the creation and use of asphalt. Join us this week as we review the basics of asphalt.

Asphalt vs. Concrete Materials

First, we will define a key term when discussing asphalt and concrete: Aggregate. The aggregate within these mixtures are processed materials often consisting of minerals including rock, sand, gravel, or recycled components.

Concrete consists of three basic components. Concrete basics include aggregate, water, and cement. Cement acts as a binding agent when added to the mix.

Asphalt is very similar to concrete when looking at the core components. Asphalt basics consist of aggregate, water, and a binder. The biggest differences between asphalt and concrete are the materials they are made of. Additionally, asphalt has the options for different types of asphalt depending on the project needs.

What Are The 3 Asphalt Types?

There are 3 base types of asphalt. Asphalt installation experts further mix those categories. They do this to manufacture even more distinct types of asphalt.

Looking at the basics, these three types are: hot, warm, and cold.

Hot

Hot asphalt is what most drivers see when driving past a construction crew. They use hot asphalt patch up pot-holes and any cracks in the roads. The temperature of the asphalt makes it easier to work with. Additionally, it makes it more pliable when it comes to fitting perfectly into any imperfections found on the road.

The biggest downside to working with hot asphalt is that at some point it cools. Once it cools, the material becomes hard and impossible to work with. For this reason, hot asphalt needs to be used immediately.

Warm

Warm asphalt is a generic term for many asphalt mixtures, however, the concept is still the same. The biggest benefit of warm asphalt is that it can be transferred longer distances – since it isn’t required to keep a higher temperature – and is designed to work in any weather condition upon application. Meaning a warm asphalt mix is able to be used for repairs that are both wet and dry. The benefits of this type of asphalt are that it can be used later in the paving season when temperatures drop, and once compacted it is ready for use.

Cold

The final type of asphalt is of the cold variety. This particular mix is best used as a temporary fix in the lowest traffic areas as it dries and cures slowly. This type of asphalt is not liquified with heat, but instead with a few options. The first being water and emulsifying agents, and the other with solutions such as a petroleum solvent.

The benefit of cold asphalt is that it can be used during the winter months as a temporary fix until temperatures allow for the paving season to begin.

What Makes Quality Asphalt?

You may be surprised to learn that not all materials are made the same, this is especially true when it comes to asphalt. The quality of your chosen asphalt will directly correlate with how long it lasts and how many repairs will need to be performed after application. A good asphalt will be able to handle all of your traffic needs along with any weather conditions that your area routinely experiences.

Aggregated materials must be both durable and angular. This aids in the resistance of early wear and tear, allowing you to enjoy your asphalt for a longer period of time. For the best asphalt mix, the materials should be varying in size as well. This helps in the creation of an optimal surface as larger pieces are brought together by smaller materials fitting in the cracks and crannies.

Good asphalt contractors will consistently keep up to date with the most recent technology advances so as to maintain the highest quality asphalt. Understanding and keeping updated not only improves the quality of the product you get but the value, safety, and efficiency of the application.

Here at Hicks, we are dedicated to superior asphalt paving. We make the entire process quick and easy for your pavement need.