What makes asphalt better than concrete and other paving materials? Unlike other pavement types, our Southeast Michigan asphalt contractors will tell you that asphalt is flexible and easier to repair. Asphalt roads also produce less noise pollution.
Continue reading to learn how asphalt is made and the other .
The team at Allied Construction is here to help you make an informed decision about your paving needs.
How is Asphalt Produced?
Manufacturers make asphalt out of stone, gravel, sand, and a small amount of asphalt cement. They use the last ingredient to bind the mixture together. Most manufacturers process asphalt from petroleum. Yet, asphalt is still a natural ingredient found in nature.
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Oil refineries divide petroleum into different layers by weight. Since asphalt is the heaviest, it sinks to the bottom. The refineries then separate and change asphalt so it’s the right consistency for paving.
Hot vs. Cold Mix Asphalt
Refineries make hot mix asphalt by heating it up to a temperature between 200 and 350 degrees. The high temperatures make asphalt more fluid and evaporate any remaining moisture. Hot mix asphalt should remain at a high temperature so it’s ready for paving. Otherwise, our asphalt contractors won't be able to compact and install it. Because of this, hot mix asphalt proves to be best for summer paving projects.
Manufacturers make cold mix asphalt out of quarter-inch chip and proprietary oil. That way, it stays soft and malleable until it's ready for our asphalt contractors to use.
Since cold mix asphalt is able to repel water, our asphalt paving contractors can install it in the rain. We also don't have to keep cold mix asphalt hot to repair asphalt potholes and cracks. Our asphalt contractors may use cold mix asphalt for repairs that can’t wait until summer.
What Are the Benefits of Asphalt?
We use asphalt for driveways, parking lots, roads, and other paved surfaces. A few of the benefits of using asphalt include:
100% Recyclable
Did you know asphalt is 100% recyclable? Recycled asphalt has the same strength and durability as virgin asphalt, at a lower cost to you. Asphalt recycling also keeps 75 million tons of asphalt out of landfills, according to the Federal Highway Administration. We're able to reuse asphalt millings and chunks to pave a variety of surfaces.
Long Lasting
and parking lots can last up to 20 years with maintenance. We recommend you repair damage to your asphalt pavement as soon as you notice it. Don't delay asphalt crack repair or pothole repair! Sealcoating also protects asphalt from UV rays, precipitation, and automobile fluids.
Smooth and Safe
Unlike other types of pavement, asphalt creates a more uniform surface which translates to smooth roads for drivers. Rough, uneven surfaces are unsafe as they reduce driver control and increase driver fatigue.
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Asphalt, on the other hand, offers high skid resistance and allows for great contact with vehicle tires. Its dark color also reduces glare and overall, helps to melt away snow and ice much better when compared to other pavement materials.
Less Noise Pollution
Cars make less noise when driving on asphalt compared to other types of pavement. This is why asphalt is often used for paving city roads that receive a high volume of traffic. People also appreciate less noise pollution in residential neighborhoods.
More Contrast between Pavement and Markings
Black asphalt creates a high contrast against yellow and white pavement markings. As a result, motorists and pedestrians are able to better see pavement markings and stay safe. For example, it's important that parking lot striping be visible year-round.
Request an Estimate Today
Our will work hard to make sure your driveways, parking lots, and roads are paved with care. To request a free estimate for asphalt paving, call Allied Construction at (248) 625-9581.
This blog post has been updated.