Asphalt is one of the most popular materials for paving. It is most often used for parking lots, airplane runways, and driveways. Asphalt is durable, long-lasting, efficient, and budget-friendly, making it a commonsense option for people looking to install a driveway or parking lot. So, what is asphalt and what makes it so great?
What is Asphalt Made Of?
Asphalt is mostly made of crushed rock, sand, or gravel. These aggregates are commonly bound together with bitumen. Bitumen is a viscous form of petroleum that acts as a solid when cooled, but can start to melt at high temperatures. This is why driveways and roads seem to melt and get sticky on very hot days.
How is Asphalt Made?
Oftentimes, the terms asphalt, blacktop, and concrete are used interchangeably. However, there are notable differences between them including how they are made and what they are made of.
Asphalt is typically made by mixing the aggregate material and the binding material at high very high temperatures. It can be made in small or large batches, making it perfect for any project from large parking lots or small pothole patches. However, there are different kinds of asphalt mixes that have different uses.
Types of Asphalt Mixes
There are different ways to mix asphalt that create different types of asphalt. The main three are:
- Hot Mix Asphalt: This is the most common type of asphalt. It is produced at 300-350 degrees Fahrenheit. Asphalt cools quickly, so this technique requires expertise to pull it off. Hot mix asphalt is best used on highways due to it being highly weather-resistant and able to withstand high amounts of traffic.
- Warm Mix Asphalt: This is the newest technique for making asphalt mixes. The asphalt is only heated to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, making it more sustainable and safer for workers. It also is easier to transport without losing quality.
- Cold Mix Asphalt: This asphalt mix is only done when it is cold outside and it’s necessary to make a temporary repair as soon as possible. It isn’t as strong as hot or warm mixes, so you should do a proper patch as soon as you are able.
Your Asphalt Experts in Minnesota
The Asphalt Company is your asphalt expert in Minnesota. We offer customized solutions for driveways and parking lots, skilled technicians, high-quality materials, competitive pricing, and anything else you might need for your asphalt project. We can help your home or business have more curb-appeal and functionality so that it feels welcoming and beautiful.
If you need a new driveway or parking lot, or if you need asphalt repairs, The Asphalt Company is here to help. Contact us today with any questions or a quote!