5 Types Of Asphalt Paving Methods A Contractor Should Know About

People opt for asphalt when paving their driveways and other contracting projects for various reasons. The thick black and highly viscous substance can improve the aesthetics, functionality, and safety of any outdoor surface. 

Asphalt combines natural compounds, including rock, sand, and bitumen. It is ideal for paving since it can adhere to any surface and is highly suitable for withstanding heavy traffic.

However, all asphalt is not the same. Bay Country Contractors is your reputable asphalt contractor in Ashburn, VA. In this guide, we will share five different kinds of asphalt paving methods every contractor should know about. 

Hot Mix Asphalt

Arguably the most commonly used type of asphalt paving technique is the hot mix asphalt. As the name suggests, to make this type of asphalt, contractors need to heat rock and sand until it reaches a temperature between 275- and 300-degrees Fahrenheit. The mixture is then combined with bitumen—a black and sticky substance derived from petroleum.

Warm Mix Asphalt

Warm Mix Asphalt is ideal for construction projects located in areas with high temperatures. You can carry out this kind of asphalt paving by adding wax or asphaltenes—a substance derived from petroleum—into the mix. The addition of these materials prevents the asphalt from hardening when exposed to high temperatures.

Cold Mix Asphalt

Unlike hot mix and warm mix asphalt, cold mix asphalt does not need to be heated. Emulsified asphalts or cutbacks are used as a binder, and the mixture is then combined with aggregate.

Contractors use cold mix asphalt for projects in cold weather regions or areas with high altitudes. You can use it as a temporary fix for potholes or other minor damage.

Dense-Graded Asphalt

Dense-graded asphalt is a mix of coarse and fine aggregates, with the fine aggregates filling in the spaces between the coarse ones. This asphalt paving method is used for highways and other high-traffic areas.

Asphalt contractors use this coarse and fine aggregate combination of 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) coarse aggregate and sand.

Porous Asphalt

Porous asphalt is a type of asphalt paving method used when you need a surface which allows water to drain through it. It is used in areas with the risk of flooding or runoff, such as parking lots, golf courses, and bicycle paths.

Porous asphalt is made by adding larger aggregate to the mix and using less binder. This creates more voids, or spaces, in the pavement where water can drain through.

How to Hire a Reputable Asphalt Contractor in Ashburn, VA?

Before you hire an asphalt contractor in Ashburn, VA, be sure to do your research. Ask for referrals from friends or family and check online reviews. Once you’ve found a few contractors that you’re interested in, meet with them to discuss your project and get quotes. Ask about their experience, if they offer warranties, and whether they are appropriately licensed and insured.

You can put all your worries to rest by opting for Bay Country Contractors, serving Ashburn, VA. We provide stone placement, site concrete, and asphalt installation services for all your commercial needs.

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