3 Types Of Asphalt Mixes For Your Parking Lot
Posted on: 4 August 2021
If you want to install an asphalt parking lot on your property, you need to know precisely what kind of asphalt mix you want to be used on your parking lot to ensure you get the best possible results.
Basic asphalt is made of two primary ingredients, bitumen and aggregate, which is a fancy word for rocks. The element of the mixture that can be changed is the aggregate. The size, sharpness, roundness, and volume of the aggregate can be changed. The amount of bitumen can be adjusted in the mixture as well. The three main types of mixes are cold mixes, warm mixes, and hot mixes.
Cold Mix
Cold mix asphalt creates a mixture that can be applied even when the mixture itself is literally cold. It contains a blend of additional oils and additives that ensure that the mixture will work when it is cold as well.
Cold mix is not generally used to create a parking lot. Instead, it is used for patching up cracks and potholes. The material is easy for anyone to work with and is often used by non-professionals for patching, although it is best if used by a professional.
Warm Mix
Another type of mixture is a warm mix. It uses a mixture of both hot and cold mixtures together. This mixture is made under a special manufacturing process where it is mixed to very hot temperatures before it settles to a warmer temperature. This allows the mixture to be hauled long distances before it is used. Making warm mix asphalt also involves the use of less oil, which makes it the most eco-friendly asphalt option. In addition, when applied to a parking lot or other surface, it is designed to create fewer fumes, smoke, and dust, making it a safe material to use.
Warm mixes settle well and are often used for parking lots.
Hot Mix
Finally, you can use hot mix asphalt. This mixture involves mixing up the materials at high temperatures and then laying the material down when it is still hot. It requires special equipment for the material to be rolled out while it is hot. The hot mixture is typically used during the summertime when the temperatures are warmer outside. This material doesn't work as well in cooler weather, as the material can cool too fast for the material to create a sturdy base.
Hot mix asphalt is commonly used for parking lots, especially if the parking lot is paved during the summer or spring months.
When it comes to choosing the material you use for your parking lot, both warm and hot mix asphalt are strong choices. The hot mix works best if applied when it is warm outside; the warm mix works great when the mixture has to travel long distances or if you are looking for an eco-friendly option. It also works well when applying a mixture when it is colder outside.
If you need help with your asphalt paving, contact a business like Arrow Black Top & Masonry Inc.
Share