The Different Types of Asphalt to Consider for Your Driveway

When it comes time to repave your driveway, hiring one of the best contractors in town is necessary. Among them, Albuquerque Paving Company will surely repave your dreamed driveway. But once you’ve hired them, you have a few different options to choose from. One of the most popular choices is asphalt, which comes in a few different varieties. Asphalt is a popular driveway option because it is durable and relatively affordable. It also has a variety of applications, so it can be used for a wide range of projects. And today, we’ll explore four different types of asphalt and what each one is best suited for. Keep reading to learn more.
Hot Mix Asphalt
Hot mix asphalt is the most common type of asphalt. It combines aggregate (such as gravel or crushed stone) with bitumen (a sticky, black substance used as a binding agent). This mixture is then heated and compacted to create a solid surface. Hot mix asphalt is best suited for projects that require a smooth, even surface. It is also the best type of asphalt for cold weather climates, as it is less likely to crack in freezing temperatures.
Cold Mix Asphalt
Cold mix asphalt is made with an emulsion of bitumen and water. This mixture is then combined with aggregate to create a cold mix of asphalt that can be used for various projects. Cold mix asphalt is best suited for projects that do not require a very smooth or even surface. It is also a good option for temporary repairs, as it can be applied in cold weather and does not require heat to set. Unlike hot mix asphalt, cold mix asphalt is not as durable and can only be used for projects with low traffic.
Porous Asphalt
As the most environmentally friendly option, porous asphalt is made with a mixture of bitumen, aggregate, and a foaming agent. This mixture is then compacted to create a solid surface with pores that allow water to drain through. Porous asphalt is best suited for projects that require good drainages, such as parking lots or bike paths. It is also a good choice for projects in environmentally sensitive areas, as it helps to reduce stormwater runoff.
Recycled Asphalt
As the name suggests, recycled asphalt is made with recycled materials. It is made by crushing up old asphalt pavement and mixing it with aggregate. This mixture is then compacted to create a new surface. Recycled asphalt is best suited for projects that require a durable surface. It is also a perfect solution for projects in environmentally sensitive areas, as it helps to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Now that you’ve learned about the different types of asphalt, you can decide which one is best suited for your project. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your contractor. They can help you choose the best option for your needs. After all, each homeowner has a different kind of environment and different types of needs.