Have you ever wondered why pavers use asphalt for roads? In the United States, almost all roads are paved with asphalt. The black and sticky substance is commonplace in many areas and is easily recognizable because over 90% of roads are paved with asphalt. It is paved onto predetermined areas to help create a smooth driving experience for all.
Back in 1870, most of the roads were made of concrete, so why the switch? We will answer some common questions about the use of asphalt for roads in this blog.
Smooth Drive For All Vehicles
The main reason why contractors use asphalt for roads is to create a better experience for the driver. Asphalt creates a smooth surface that helps the tires of your car to better grip while they are driving. Concrete has less traction than asphalt, so drivers on asphalt roads can drive safer and smoother.
Longevity And Durability
Asphalt has a long lifespan, which means that it needs limited maintenance and repairs over many years. While roads will need to be repaired every so often, using asphalt for roads is much more durable than other materials. Interstates, highways, and areas with high traffic need a durable material to prevent potholes and cracks from appearing daily.
Asphalt is made of a mixture of aggregates, a binder, and a filler. Aggregates usually consist of ground-up sand or rocks which are then bound together with bitumen as the binder. With multiple materials working together, asphalt can hold its own against weather and heavy vehicles.
Ease Of Application
The laying of asphalt and applying a seal coating is a fairly quick process. It can also be done one lane at a time, which means that entire roads don’t need to be shut down during the repaving process. Using asphalt for roads helps to minimize disruptions to daily life.
Other Benefits Of Asphalt
While many of the benefits of asphalt apply specifically to roads, there are benefits to using it as your driveway, in parking lots, around schools, and more! Here are some of the other benefits of asphalt:
- High skid resistance
- Noise reduction
- Low maintenance costs
- Snow melts faster
- Increase fuel efficiency for vehicles
- Eco friendly
- Lower construction time
Different Types Of Asphalt And What They Are Used For
Hot Mix Asphalt: The asphalt for roads is usually a hot mix asphalt. This type is flexible and weather resistant. It is heated and poured at a temperature of 300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. It also cools quickly, so it can require some expertise to apply.
Warm Mix: This mix is relatively new to the paving industry but has been helpful in extending the paving season because it cools slowly. It is heated to anywhere between 30 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and it creates fewer greenhouse gases when heated.
MC Cold Mix: The cold mix is used for patching or only in low-traffic areas. It is not as durable as hot or warm mixes but can be used for temporary repairs when the weather is cooler.
Dense Graded Mixes: This is suitable for all traffic types and is great for leveling or patching needs. This hot mix is impermeable which gives it added durability and less risk of cracking.
Porous Asphalt: Porous asphalt allows water to drain through it to infiltrate the soil below. This is commonly used for driveways and playgrounds. When done by a professional, this mix can last up to 20 years.
Asphalt Repair With Precision Asphalt Maintenance
Precision Asphalt Maintenance offers asphalt services to Northern Utah and beyond. We help pave roads, commercial projects, and driveways, and we also help with asphalt repair, sealing, and pothole repair.
If you are looking for durable asphalt, our team can help provide you with a clean application and smooth finish. Precision Asphalt Maintenance offers quality installation at low prices. With over a decade of experience, our company can take asphalt projects to the next level. Contact us or request a quote today!
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