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How Asphalt Is Made: 7 Essential Steps From Production to Pavement

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How Asphalt Is Made: 7 Essential Steps From Production to Pavement

Asphalt is the backbone of many types of infrastructure that we use every day. This versatile material is a marvel of engineering that goes through a fascinating journey on its way to becoming roads, highways, and parking lots. 

As a leading asphalt paving and repair company, our team at Precision Asphalt Maintenance truly understands the significance of the manufacturing and installation processes in ensuring the longevity and durability of any asphalt surface. In this blog post, we’ll show you how asphalt is made, exploring several essential steps involved in transforming raw materials into the finished pavement we rely on each day.

#1. Raw Materials

The journey of asphalt production begins with the raw materials. Asphalt is made using bitumen, which is a sticky, thick substance that’s derived from crude oil. It serves as a binder to hold aggregates together, including materials such as crushed rock, gravel, and sand. These aggregates are carefully chosen based on their unique properties to meet the specific needs of the intended application and provide strength and durability.

#2. Mix Design

Once the raw materials have been obtained, the next step is mix design, which involves determining the precise proportions of bitumen and aggregates that will create an asphalt mix with the desired characteristics. Many factors are taken into account throughout the mix design process, including the traffic load the asphalt surface will have, the area’s climate conditions, and any local regulations. Highly trained engineers optimize the mix through advanced testing and modeling techniques, aiming to find the delicate balance between flexibility, durability, and resistance to environmental factors.

#3. Batching and Heating

Asphalt is made in batches once the mix design has been developed. The aggregate materials are carefully measured and then combined in the correct proportions. At the same time, bitumen is heated to a temperature where it becomes viscous and can bind the aggregates together effectively. Then, the heated bitumen is then mixed with the aggregates in large drums or mixing plants, creating a homogenous blend of materials. This meticulous process guarantees the asphalt mixture’s consistency and quality.

#4. Transportation

Once the asphalt mix has been prepared, the next step is transporting it to the construction site. This often involves the use of large trucks specially designed to transport the hot asphalt mixture while keeping it at the correct temperature. The timing of the transportation process is critical — to ensure optimal workability, the asphalt has to reach the construction site within a certain timeframe. Advanced temperature control measures and careful logistics are employed to maintain the asphalt’s quality during transportation.

how asphalt is made Utah

#5. Paving and Compaction

Once the asphalt mixture has reached the construction site, it’s then precisely laid down by paving machines, which distribute the mix evenly and at the correct thickness. After the asphalt has been laid, it’s then compacted using heavy rollers, which is crucial for achieving the desired density and creating a smooth pavement surface. Properly compacting the asphalt ensures that it can withstand the stresses of traffic and environmental conditions.

#6. Curing and Quality Control

After it has been compacted, the newly laid asphalt must undergo a curing process. Curing involves allowing the pavement to cool and harden, which is a critical aspect of developing its structural integrity. Throughout the process, quality control measures are implemented, including testing the density, thickness, and smoothness of the asphalt surface. These tests help identify any issues that may impact quality, ensuring the finished product meets the required specifications.

rain affects new asphalt Utah

#7. Maintenance and Longevity

After the asphalt is made and laid, the process doesn’t end there. Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of any asphalt surface. That’s why Precision Asphalt Maintenance offers services such as sealcoating, pavement repairs, and crack filling to help these surfaces last longer. We are dedicated to preserving the asphalt’s structural integrity and protecting it from the damage that comes with weather, traffic, and time.

Our Asphalt is Made to Last

At Precision Asphalt Maintenance, our asphalt is made to stand the test of time. We take pride in understanding and contributing to the asphalt production, installation, and repair processes. 

Our professional team is committed to quality, innovation, and attention to detail, ensuring that our products and services always meet the highest standards of durability and functionality. 
If you’re seeking repairs for cracked or crumbling asphalt or are looking into getting a new asphalt surface installed, look no further than the experts at Precision Asphalt Maintenance. Request a quote today to get started!

parking lot line striping Precision Asphalt Maintenance

Line striping is an essential part of maintaining a safe and effective parking lot and road. While line striping is meant to last, nothing lasts forever, especially not in areas that see a lot of traffic, even if they’re exceptionally well-maintained. In order to ensure that your parking lot and road look their best and that the lines are clear to see to ensure a safer and more efficient environment, you will need to have line striping redone every few years.

Here is what you need to know about how long line striping lasts, what can cause it to fade faster, and whether or not there is anything you can do to help it last longer. Let’s dive into it!

How Long Can You Expect Line Striping To Last? 

Generally, line striping can last you about 2 years before you need to have it redone. However, this can vary depending on the weather in your area, how much traffic it’s subjected to, and more. As such, it’s a good idea to check on your striping regularly. If a year has passed and it still looks good, you may be able to wait another 6 months before checking it again. However, if it looks faded, you’ll want to have it redone. 

You don’t want to wait until the lines are very faded before having the striping redone. You want them to still be distinct enough for people to distinguish parking spots and the like. That way, your business’s curb appeal won’t be too impacted and you won’t have to worry about clients making their own parking spots because they’re no longer obvious.

What Causes Line Striping To Fade Faster?

Precision Asphalt Northern Utah Striping Parking Lot

As mentioned before, the ballpark number of 2 years before needing to get new lines done is just that – a general number. Depending on the conditions your line striping is subjected to, it may last longer or less time than this. 

Here are some of the factors that can influence the lifespan of your line striping.

  • The time of year it’s applied. Temperature can impact how well the paint adheres to the asphalt. If you have your line striping redone in the colder months, you may find that it doesn’t last as long as it could if it were applied in the warmer months. This is because it is easier for the paint to adhere to the asphalt when it is warmer and drier.
  • The condition of your asphalt. If your asphalt is deteriorating with cracks spreading across it and some parts higher than the others, even if you have brand new striping put down, it likely won’t last as long due to the condition of your concrete. For the best results, you want to ensure that your asphalt is in good condition and that any necessary repairs are done before you redo your striping. This is why companies often reseal their pavement and then have the line striping redone a few days later, to ensure that everything looks and works as it should. 
  • How much traffic the asphalt is subjected to. The more traffic that your lot experiences, the more wear and tear your striping is subjected to, and the sooner you’ll need to have it redone. If you have a lot that doesn’t get much use, your striping will likely last longer than it would otherwise. 

There are other factors that can impact how long it lasts, such as the weather where you live, the type of paint that the contractor used, and what techniques were used in order to do the line striping. In order to keep your line striping in good condition for as long as possible, you’ll want to ensure that you’re properly maintaining your pavement.

How Long Does Line Striping Take To Dry?

So, you need to have your striping redone. How long will it take before it’s dry and can you use your parking lot while it’s drying, so long as you’re careful?

reasons you need asphalt maintenance

In general, it’s best to wait at least an hour before allowing cars back onto the lot after having your line striping redone. It may feel dry to the touch within half an hour, but you want to ensure that it’s fully cured before it gets driven on. Of course, this is a general approximation. Depending on the methods used, the type of paint used, and more, the time it takes for your line striping to dry may vary. It’s best to consult with your contractor in order to know the specifics for your specific project. 

Precision Asphalt Maintenance provides professional line striping services. If you need new line striping done or have any questions about it, such as how long our line striping takes to dry, please don’t hesitate to contact us. 

You know that gap between your driveway and your garage floors? Or between your driveway and the sidewalks and paths around your property? Many homeowners wonder if you can seal the gap between concrete and asphalt to improve the aesthetic appeal of their home. You’ll be pleased to learn that yes, you can indeed seal the gap between concrete and asphalt. Sealing this gap is important not only to enhance the curb appeal of your home, but also to increase the lifespan of your concrete and your asphalt, as well as to prevent damages.

seal the gap between concrete and asphalt

Here’s what you need to know about what that gap even is, why you should seal the gap between concrete and asphalt, and what you should do if you need to have said gap sealed. Let’s get into it!

What Is The Gap Between Concrete And Asphalt?

The gap between your asphalt driveway and your concrete driveway, sidewalk, paths, and the like is called an expansion joint. The expansion joint is what allows for the expansion and contraction of concrete as temperature changes, in order to prevent it from cracking due to the stress of not having room to expand.

Should You Seal The Gap Between Concrete And Asphalt?

Expansion joints sound pretty important, so should you even seal the gap between concrete and asphalt or is it better to leave them be? You don’t want to interfere with their function, after all, or end up causing your concrete or asphalt to develop cracks that will make them more unsightly and cause them to have a shortened lifespan due to the damages. You’ll be relieved to learn that yes, you both can and should seal the gap between concrete and asphalt. 

There are a number of reasons why you should seal the gap between concrete and asphalt. One of which is for aesthetic reasons, yes, but sealing the gap between concrete and asphalt is also important in order to help both your concrete and your asphalt last longer.

Here’s why you should seal the gap between concrete and asphalt.

Aesthetic Appeal

seal the gap between concrete and asphalt

Most people ask if you should seal the gap between concrete and asphalt because they simply don’t like the look of it. This is completely valid. Sealing the gap between your concrete and your asphalt boosts your property’s curb appeal by making it appear smoother and more uniform and cohesive. 

Prevent Damages

When you seal the gap between concrete and asphalt, you’re not only enhancing the curb appeal of your property, you’re also protecting it from damages. This is because left unsealed, water can get into these joints and the base materials and structure of your home. This can cause all sorts of problems, such as cracks, structural damages, and more. 

Water can damage your concrete in multiple ways, such as corrosion of the rebars, creating a chemical reaction that causes the concrete to crumble, and causing a freeze-thaw cycle that can lead to cracks snaking their way through your concrete and asphalt. 

Keep Plants And Insects Out

Plants and insects can cause damage to your concrete and asphalt as they grow and expand their colonies. This can lead to cracking, heaving, water accumulation, and more. By sealing the gap between your concrete and your asphalt, you’re keeping these things out and protecting your property. 

What Should You Be Mindful Of When Sealing The Gap Between Concrete And Asphalt?

seal the gap between concrete and asphalt

If you’re going to seal the gap between concrete and asphalt, your goal is to protect your property and make it look better. However, there are a few things to bear in mind when it comes to having this project done. For instance, you don’t want to use any hard materials, as these will end up cracking too, and cause stress on your concrete and asphalt. You also want to ensure the gap is clear of any debris prior to having it sealed.

It’s important that the material used to seal the gap between concrete and asphalt is flexible, so that it allows for the expansion and contraction of your materials, while still keeping water, insects, and debris out. 

Additionally, both sides on either side of the gap should be roughly the same height. If they’re not, they’ll need to be leveled before you can seal the gap between concrete and asphalt. 

Do You Need To Seal The Gap Between Concrete And Asphalt?

Precision Asphalt Maintenance can seal the gap for you and improve the aesthetic appeal and safety of your home. Contact us today!

Precision Asphalt

897 McCormick Way #4
Layton, UT 84041 801-882-2429
2143 W 700 N
Ogden, UT 84404
801-991-0158
50 W Broadway
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
801-923-4062
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