All types of asphalt may look the same to the uninitiated: a hard, black substance made from small rocks glued together with tar. However, the truth of the matter is that asphalt comes in a variety of types and forms. On top of that, its makeup varies from season to season.
If you are facing an asphalt paving project, it pays for you to understand the different types of asphalt. Doing so will enable you to find the one that suits your project and meets your needs.
On that note, allow us to help make your research at least a little easier. In the sections below, you will find two of the most popular types of asphalt:
1) Summer Asphalt
Otherwise referred to as “hot asphalt”, summer asphalt is usually used for paving large areas such as long driveways, parking lots, and roads. It’s also what you usually see being used in summer road construction projects.
What’s worth mentioning about summer asphalt is the way it is made. It is mixed around 275-325 degrees Fahrenheit and must be kept up to that temperature.
Furthermore, summer asphalt must be applied following certain conditions. First, it must stay at the temperature previously mentioned. It must also be quickly applied after it is mixed. If it ends up cooling down, it can be reheated by a fuel heating system; however, this can impact its quality.
Finally, summer asphalt must only be applied on ground that is warm and dry. It is for this reason that this is the go-to substance for large jobs during summer, which is also how it got its name.
2) Winter Asphalt
Summer is the more ideal time to lay large amounts of asphalt because it presents the best conditions.
As the temperatures are lower during winter, asphalt is mainly used for patching repairs. It can be used to solve potholes, cracks, and other common problems. Furthermore, it is not used to pave large projects as mentioned in the first item.
It’s also worth noting that asphalt poured on colder surfaces takes longer to cure. For this reason, it is only applied in smaller batches.
Nevertheless, one advantage of using winter asphalt is that it does not need to be heated consistently to be applied. It can simply be stored and used again for another patching process later on. Because of this, it has a wide variety of applications.
Winter asphalt is generally available from January to March.
Seeking the Expertise of Asphalt Paving Companies
The information above is just a brief overview of the differences between these two types of asphalt. If you are about to undertake an asphalt paving project, it is still best to seek the expertise of seasoned asphalt paving contractors.
They will be able to guide you through the whole project, assuring you that your asphalt is the right one for your needs. Ultimately, they will provide you with the highest quality of work and a driveway that is built to last.
Conclusion
Although all asphalt may look the same to some, the truth is that it has two different types according to the time of the year it is being used. Hot mix asphalt can be excellent for driveways and is a relatively affordable way to ensure durability and a quick installation time. Homeowners can also seek winter asphalt or driveway sealant for small repairs, making it an excellent option that offers plenty of flexibility.
No matter the season, you can find a reliable full-service asphalt paving contractor in W&W Construction. We serve Edmonton and the surrounding areas, and whether you’re looking for a residential or commercial solution, we have you covered. Learn more about when to repair or replace your asphalt driveway and get in touch to discuss your project today!
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