A Quick Comparison of Warm Mix Asphalt and Hot Mix Asphalt

We walk on it, drive on it, appreciate its appeal, but seldom actually know what it’s made of. We are talking about asphalt pavements, of course! Conventional asphalt is comprised of course aggregate, stone, gravel, fine aggregate, sand, and petroleum-based asphalt cement. All of these constituents are melted down to form the black, bituminous material we know as asphalt.  Also referred to as bitumen, asphalt mix can be prepared in a number of ways, but the two most common asphalt mixes used in the industry are warm mix and hot mix asphalt.

Continue below to review a quick comparison of warm mix asphalt and hot mix asphalt and move forward with the knowledge you need to make the right paving decision for project.

Indianapolis IN Asphalt Paving Contractors 317-549-1833
Indianapolis IN Asphalt Paving Contractors 317-549-1833

Hot Mix Versus Cold Mix

Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA)

Hot mix asphalt is the most popular and widely-used asphalt paving material in the country. Manufactured at temperatures ranging from 300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, you can see where it gets its name. It is flexible, making it more resistant to premature damages like cracking. It is also weather resistant, especially effective at repelling water. Because of its beneficial properties, hot mix asphalt is the top material used to pave highways, interstates, and roadways.

There are three different grades of HMA: dense-graded, stone matrix, and open grade. Since hot mix asphalt cools rapidly, it must be laid in certain weather conditions. Ideally, the outdoor temperature should be at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the weather should be dry and ambient.

Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA)

Warm mix asphalt (WMA) is not used as much as hot mix asphalt. Only about 30 percent of paving jobs are done using warm mix asphalt. Warm mix asphalt is produced at much lower temperatures in comparison to HMA, usually between 200 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm asphalt mix can still deliver high performing results at lower temperatures because of its manufacturing process. It is made with additional binding materials like wax, emulsions, and zeolites, which also make the mix easier to work with.

Furthermore, WMA is Eco-friendly because it uses less fossil fuels and resources, and generates less dust, fumes, and smoke. Opposite of hot mix asphalt, warm mix does not cool as quickly. But this is an advantage, as it can withstand longer shipping distances and be used outside of the usual road construction seasons.

Are you looking for professional commercial asphalt paving in the Central Indiana region? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis Indiana asphalt paving and sealcoating services at the most competitive rates in the central parts of the state. We serve commercial, industrial, and municipal clients.

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Is it Possible to Lay Asphalt on Top of Concrete?

Concrete is economical and cost-effective choice for property owners. But over time, concrete damages can really reduce the overall curb appeal, and therefore value of a property. For this reason, it is very common for property owners to make the switch to asphalt pavement. Asphalt, like concrete, offers a wide range of benefits, such as cost efficiency, appeal, and long-lasting performance.

But how can you responsively make the switch from concrete to asphalt? You might be wondering if you can simply pave asphalt on top of concrete. Well, in most situations, you can. However, there are times when comprehensive demolition must take place before paving a new asphalt.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about paving asphalt over concrete, including which commercial paving company to trust in central Indiana for superior advice and craftsmanship.

Asphalt Overlays Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833
Commercial Industrial Asphalt Overlays Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

Benefits of Asphalt Pavement

Although concrete is a wonderful and predominant paving material used all across the world in various industries and applications, asphalt is a wise choice for many types of paving projects. From driveways and parking lots to athletic courts, and more, asphalt is a good fit in a compatible option for paving.

Some of the most prominent benefits of asphalt include lustrous finishes, stunning curb appeal, low cost, low maintenance, and longevity. With good care and maintenance, asphalt lots can last anywhere between 10 and 30 years.

Additionally, many would think that concrete is cheaper than asphalt, but asphalt is more cost-effective in the long run. Concrete generally runs anywhere from 3 to 10 dollars per square foot, while asphalt runs an average of 1 to 3 dollars per square foot.

Paving Asphalt on Top of Concrete

It is possible to lay asphalt on top of concrete pavement, so long as you are using the proper techniques and industry best practices. This means hiring is skilled in seasoned Indianapolis Indiana commercial paving company for the job. Here’s what you need to know about paving asphalt over concrete:

Concrete makes an excellent base material for asphalt paving. This is mostly due to the fact that concrete allows better compaction of the asphalt, which is an important element of paving, but also because concrete has an innate ability to bridge any degree of soil or ground instability.

Concrete, when installed properly from the beginning, is constructed with good ground reinforcement and aggregate layering. This also contributes to its ability to make a good base for asphalt paving.

Just because concrete makes an excellent base material for asphalt paving does not mean that it is always in good enough condition for an asphalt paving project. It is imperative to address and resolve any concrete instability issues, including expansion joint movements or cracking, before laying asphalt on top of concrete.

If these types of damages are not repaired before paving asphalt over concrete, any type of expansion joint shifting or slab movements will present itself in the form of asphalt surface cracks and similar damages.

Are you searching for a qualified Indiana commercial paving company in your area? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a licensed contractor about commercial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

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Commercial and Industrial Pavement Repair
Commercial and Industrial Pavement Repair

Is it Warm Enough to Lay Asphalt Yet?

Here in Central Indiana, the temperatures have certainly warmed up in the recent days. Our region went from 26°F to almost 55° as of today, and it’s the middle of February! With this occasional and unprecedented warm weather front in the midst of winter, our commercial pavers are always asked if it is warm enough to perform asphalt work yet.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know when it comes to the best temperatures for asphalt projects, plus how to get started with a commercial paving bid for your business or real estate development.

Commercial Asphalt Work Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833
Commercial Asphalt Work Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

The Best Time of Year for Asphalt Work

Within the Hoosier construction and building industry, namely when it comes to pavement work, the rule of thumb holds strong, insisting that the best time of year for asphalt work is between mid-June and September. During these months, the climate is drier, calmer, and all around more predictable in comparison to other seasons throughout the year. You never want to lay asphalt and rainy weather nor in climates that are too cold or too hot. The weather and climate should be ambient to support the most successful outcomes for asphalt projects.

Although the industry rule of thumb claims that June through September are the best months for asphalt work, it does not mean that asphalt installation projects cannot be successfully completed prior to or thereafter this time spectrum. As mentioned, if the weather is ambient and the type of asphalt work specified is compatible, the project can be carried out successfully. It is important to talk to your trusted Indiana commercial paving company to ensure that your particular asphalt paving needs can be met in the time of year that you need them.

Considerations for Laying Asphalt in Cold Weather

there are several considerations taken from a professional standpoint when assessing the compatibility of an asphalt project in the cooler seasons of the year. Principally, the top considerations when determining if asphalt work can be carried out in a colder season include ambient temperature, ground temperature, pavement thickness, temperature of asphalt mix, and how much sun is expected for the day. All of these factors play an important role in the overall success of an asphalt installation project.

Sealcoating Asphalt

Contrary to asphalt laying, asphalt sealcoating can be done so long as the outdoor temperatures are between 50°F and 85°F. Any temperatures cooler or hotter than that are not compatible with asphalt sealcoating work.

Are you looking for a qualified commercial paving service to help you prepare your asphalt pavements for the upcoming seasons? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis Indiana asphalt paving and sealcoating services at the most competitive rates in the central parts of the state. We serve commercial, industrial, and municipal clients.

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Commercial and Industrial Pavement Repair
Commercial and Industrial Pavement Repair

What You Need to Know About Salting Your Pavements

It’s not even one month into the winter season and there is already a wintry mix on the forecast here in Central Indiana. Depending on where you live in the state, you could be looking at 46% chance of snow showers and accumulations this Saturday. Considering this weather prediction, coupled with the recent freezing rain we experienced this past Saturday, you are probably already thinking about salting your pavements. But before you do, there are some important facts you should review about the effects deicing salts have on asphalt and concrete.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about salting your pavements, from myths you should ignore to pavement protection tips you should start incorporating right away.

Asphalt Pothole Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833
Asphalt Pothole Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

How Deicing Salt Affects Paved Concrete and Asphalt

In general, deicing salts are a useful and effective product. They work well to protect against slip and fall accidents, motor vehicle collisions, and even potential pavement damages caused by the freeze thaw cycles of wintry ice and snow. However, there are some important considerations to take when it comes to the local environment surrounding the area and the type of pavement you are treating.

Here are some of the most important facts you need to know about salting your pavements this winter:

It is Not Likely That Salt Will Deteriorate Asphalt Pavements

This is a myth that has been circulating the paving industry for generations. Many people wrongly believe that deicer salt applications will deteriorate asphalt pavements, but this is only true in cases of poor installation. So long as a professional installed your asphalt pavements, they should be able to withstand any potentially-damaging effects of deicing agents.

This has to do with hot mix asphalt. Skilled professionals in the paving industry know how to apply the proper paving materials under the right circumstances and conditions, and hot mix asphalt is one of them. If your pavements were improperly installed by an unqualified company or contractor, they could be subjected to damages caused by deicing agents and salts.

Deicing Salt Can Damage Concrete

Although deicing agents are not typically damaging to asphalt surfaces paved with hot asphalt mix, concrete is a whole other story. Deicing salts are known to deteriorate concrete, especially if the concrete was poorly mixed and/or installed. The slight acidity of salt can break down the bonds that hold concrete together. Furthermore, salt is generally used more frequently on concrete because it freezes faster than asphalt.

The Environment Can Be Negatively Impacted By Deicing Agents

Many people are unaware that deicing agents and salts can have a negative impact on the local environments surrounding the areas of pavements being treated. Water runoff containing the chemicals inside deicing salts can pollute the grass and soil, therefore affecting local flora, as well as the wildlife that rely on the flora. When using deicing agents on pavements, it is important to follow all manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you are not posing any threats to the local environment. It helps to remove all snow and ice before sprinkling your deicing salts on your pavements. This way you use less product.

Are you looking for professional commercial paving company that can help you restore the damages done to your asphalt for concrete? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed and insured paving services like winter cold patching and pothole repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout such parts of the state.

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Should I Be Worried About Standing Water on My Asphalt Lot?

There are many good reasons why most lots and parking areas are paved with asphalt. It is a low-maintenance, cost-effective, and easy-to-install paving material that performs well for many years. But even though asphalt retains many valuable qualities, it can still be prone to damage, especially when it comes to water. If your asphalt lots have water runoff or drainage issues, namely standing water, you need some professional intervention as soon as possible.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about asphalt water damages and repair solutions, plus who to call in Central Indiana for superior commercial paving construction you can trust.

Asphalt Water Drainage Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833
Asphalt Water Drainage Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

Asphalt Water Drainage Problems

A few puddles of water here and there after a rain or storm is nothing to worry about. But if your lots are consistently filled with large pools of standing water or puddles, then you may want to have a pavement inspection scheduled soon. Water is enemy number one to all pavements, including asphalt. In excess, it can speed up the rate of deterioration.

Standing water can do massive amounts of damage to asphalt, including premature cracking, pavement mark fading, potholes, crevices, crumbling pavement, heaving, pavement depressions, and more. In addition to pavement damages, which can waste away your business profits and reduce your company’s overall success, but it can also pose several safety hazards to drivers and pedestrians.

Asphalt Hazards and Property Owner Liability

If your commercial lots and walking areas are not properly maintained, and as a result, someone is injured, you could take on the financial liability for their damages and losses if they choose to pursue legal action through a tort claim. Pavement damages caused by standing water can also cause car accidents, pedestrian accidents, and automotive damage.

The Importance of Using a Quality Asphalt Sealer

Asphalt does have some natural water-resistant properties, but it is not entirely withstanding to the power of moisture, freeze-thaw cycling, and vehicular traffic. One of the most effective and strongly-encouraged services to outsource for asphalt pavements is sealcoating. Asphalt sealers protect pavements from water permeation and damage. Have your asphalt lots sealed by a trusted Indiana commercial paving company to ensure long-lasting protection. Have them resealed every 3 to 5 years, or as recommended by your paving contractors.

Develop a Pavement Water Runoff Plan

Another effective solution to standing water problems on asphalt is to implement a dependable water runoff and water drainage plan for your lot. Your trusted paving contractor can help you devise the best system for mitigation water accumulation on your lot. They can come up with a reliable system to divert water away from your asphalt pavement and keep it draining properly all year long.

Are you dealing with water accumulation issues with your commercial asphalt pavements? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional commercial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also provide sealcoating services.

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Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

Essential Asphalt Paving Strategies for High Performance Results

When it comes to asphalt paving, all conditions must be compatible to get the best results. This includes the time of year, seasonal weather, state of local environment, and of course, skill of labor. If you are preparing for an asphalt overlay or large-scale commercial asphalt project, there is absolutely no room for risk. You do not want the outcome of your asphalt venture to negatively impact your bottom line.

Continue below to learn some essential asphalt paving strategies that will ensure your asphalt development renders high performance results, including longevity, safety, and curb-appeal.

Indiana Asphalt Contractors 317-549-1833
Indiana Asphalt Contractors 317-549-1833

The Right Time of Year for Asphalt Paving

Because ambient weather is so essential for proper paving results, the best times of year to pave asphalt is during the spring and fall. Namely, there should not be any snow on the ground, nor should the ground be frozen.

Spring is the busiest asphalt paving season, which generally begins right after the final snow melt, and peaks just before June. However, April and May can be troublesome because they are the rainy season here in the Mid-west. Weather has to be just right for proper asphalt paving.

Weather for Asphalt Work

The weather must be dry, and temperatures must be ambient in order to get good results with asphalt work. Rain, snow, and ice are not compatible weather conditions, nor is high levels of heat, moisture, or humidity. If the ground is frozen, asphalt work cannot begin until it has thawed completely, which means freezing temperatures are also non-compatible for asphalt paving. If the forecast calls for bad weather, most asphalt companies will postpone work to a drier day with better climate.

Winter Paving

Most asphalt work is done around the winter season since frozen ground poses all sorts of obstacles and problems with paving. Here in the Mid-west, winter climates do not generally peak until after the holiday seasons, so December asphalt work is usually compatible. If asphalt work is done on frozen ground, the mix can cool to quickly or break apart, leading to premature, if not immediate, cracks, potholes, and similar structural defects.

Cold Mix Asphalt Work

Highly experienced asphalt companies have access to innovative paving technologies and state of the art materials, such as cold mix asphalt, which allows winter asphalt work to commence with guaranteed results. Good paving contractors have the skills to work quickly and efficiently in winter to perform cold season paving without any problems. Choosing a reliable Indiana paving company is critical to outcome of your development.

Does your commercial property require asphalt work this year? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional asphalt paving and winter cold patching pothole repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all through Central Indiana.

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Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

Top 4 Asphalt Pavement Problems in Indiana

If you are a commercial property owner, it is recommended to make room for an asphalt repaving project in your budget once every 8 to 10 years. Of course, this is just a general “rule of thumb” and does not mean that every property will actually require a full-on asphalt renovation every decade. Depending on the condition of your pavement, you may only need a few repairs, some minor patchwork, or a new seal coat. Keep an eye out for needed pavement services year-round to stay on top of your investment.

Continue reading to learn which 4 problems to look for in your asphalt pavement, whether commercial or residential.

Asphalt Pavement Repair and Sealcoating 317-549-1833
Asphalt Pavement Repair and Sealcoating 317-549-1833

Most Common Asphalt Issues

To gauge the condition of your commercial or municipal asphalt pavement, simply look out for 4 tell-tale signs that suggest some attention is needed. This will ensure your investment is protected and your pavement remains a valuable asset to your property.

Asphalt Fading

One of the more noticeable signs that asphalt pavement needs some work is discoloration and fading. When the lustrous dark, rich color of asphalt as turned into a wimpy, dull gray, it is time for a new seal coat. Fortunately, this is a minor renovation that can be completed in as little as one day. It does not require any excavation or use of heavy machinery. Seal coating is important for pavement because it adds an extra layer of protection against the elements, traffic, and other sources of damage. It also makes asphalt pavement easier to clean and look great.

Large Crack Formation

Cracks are no good to have in pavement. Cracks lead to more cracks, and exponential damage after that. For this reason, it is important to keep an eye out for large cracks in your asphalt driveway or parking lot. Any crack larger than 1/4th of an inch should be treated right away. This includes cleaning, filling, and sealing all crackers larger than a quarter inch. This will prevent water from seeping into the pavement and jeopardizing the sub-grade.

Potholes

Potholes stand out, so you don’t have to go looking for them. But you do need to have them repaired for the sake of liability, as well as your investment and property value. If your asphalt has many potholes and large cracks, it might be time for a complete repaving project. If there is just one or two potholes, you can have them cleaned, filled, and sealed just like you would large asphalt cracks.

Excessive Staining or Discoloration

If your asphalt is excessively stained from oil, grease, dirt, trash, and leaves, it is time for some work to be done. Fortunately, asphalt surface stain removal is an easy DIY job. Start with routine sweeping to prevent more staining from occurring, and then use quality OTC asphalt pavement cleaners and a power washer to clear away oil and debris stains. For larger pavements, rent a street sweeper.

How does your asphalt pavement look right now? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial asphalt maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the central parts of the state. Request a bid, today.

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Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

How to Fix Alligator Cracking in Asphalt Pavement

Alligator cracking is a common asphalt threat that should be addressed as soon as it becomes noticeable. Continue reading to learn more about the common causes of alligator cracking, as well as how to repair it and prevent it for years to come.

Asphalt Crack Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833
Asphalt Crack Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

What is Alligator Cracking?

Also referred to as asphalt fatigue or crocodile cracking, alligator cracking is a very distinct type of asphalt pavement damage that mimics the appearance of an alligator’s scales. Alligator cracking damage requires immediate and professional pavement repair, otherwise it will only worsen as every freeze-thaw cycle passes each year. If left untreated, you can expect bigger problems in the long run, including costlier and more invasive pavement repairs.

Common Causes of Alligator Cracking

The most common cause of alligator cracking is the failure to seal coat asphalt as needed. It is recommended to seal coat your asphalt pavement upon its initial installation, and then every 2 to 3 years depending on the amount of traffic and particular regional climate patterns.

Talk to your local Indianapolis IN commercial paving contractor to understand your asphalt sealcoating needs. Another common cause of alligator crack formation is improper sub-grade preparation, which can also lead to water drainage issues. This typically happens a result of hiring an inexperienced or unqualified paving company.

Asphalt Alligator Crack Repair and Seal Coating

To properly repair alligator cracking in your asphalt pavements, it is important to hire a professional Central Indiana pavement repair company that specializes in your particular type of paving project. For instance, if you are a business owner who needs professional parking lot repair or asphalt repair for your paved surfaces, you would need to hire a paving company that specializes in commercial asphalt work.

Again, sealcoating is a vital pavement maintenance need for all asphalt surfaces. Not only should you seal coat your asphalt pavement as soon as it’s installed, but you should also have it routinely seal-coated according to your paving company’s recommendations.

Are you ready to learn how to improve the appearance and performance of your commercial asphalt pavements? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional commercial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also provide sealcoating services.

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When is the Best Time of Year to Sealcoat Asphalt?
3 Types of Pavement Cracks and How to Fix Them
What Causes Fatigued Cracking in Asphalt?

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

Facts About Commercial Asphalt Micro-Surfacing

Asphalt micro-surfacing is a cost-effective, long-term commercial pavement resurfacing solution that is commonly used for parking lots. It is a polymer-modified, cold-mix paving treatment that delivers a brand new surface for existing commercial pavements. Best of all, it contains chemicals that are fast setting, so it cures shortly after application, rendering a surface ready for traffic in as little as one or two hours! Compare that to other kinds of pavement overlays and applications, like slurry seal, which can take at least 24 hours to completely cure!

Continue reading to learn more facts about asphalt microsurfacing, including its composition, application process, benefits, and who to call for trusted Central Indiana asphalt construction and paving.

Indiana Asphalt Overlays and Sealcoating
Indiana Asphalt Overlays and Sealcoating 317-549-1833

Asphalt Micro-Surfacing Information for Commercial Properties

Composition

The most common mixture for micro-surfacing material is water, asphalt emulsion, aggregate (very finely crushed rock), and chemical additives. It comes in two primary grades, fine grade or heavy grade. Fine grade micro-seal is a mixture of finer aggregate material, as well as emulsified asphalt, mineral fillers and polymers. This makes it a suitable choice for smooth areas with lighter traffic levels. Heavy grade micro-seal is composed with the same materials, but using larger aggregate. The version chosen depends on the current condition and porosity of a paved surface.

Micro-Seal Application

Initially, the paving crew will inspect and address any surface issues with the pavement. This includes implementing any minor repairs such as crack filling and pothole repair. Once all surface blemishes and problems are managed, a comprehensive sweep for debris removal will take place. It is important for the surface of the pavement to be clear of any solid debris, including trash, leaves, twigs, dirt, and more. This ensures proper adherence and overall bondage. Once the surface is ready, a special paving truck pours the material on while a ground crew smooths it into place using special paving rakes and equipment. Once the micro-seal has finished curing, the pavement is ready to be repainted. This includes parking lot lines, reserved spots, handicap symbols, and more.

Top Advantages of Asphalt Resurfacing Service

There are many advantages of parking lot micro-surfacing. Not only is it cost-effective compared to a new asphalt overlay, but it is also easy to apply, cures quickly, provides UV protection from intense sun exposure, adds 5 to 7 years of life to existing pavement, and most importantly, creates a stable, durable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing surface.

Are you interested in enhancing the value, performance, and safety of your commercial asphalt with micro-surfacing? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional commercial asphalt milling and overlays in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also provide asphalt sealcoating services.

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Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

The Best Temperatures For Paving Asphalt

No matter what kind of asphalt paving job is on the docket for the day, all professional pavement contractors know to consider the most important elements of such work, most importantly, temperatures. In addition to the outdoor climate, ground temperatures, ambient temperatures, and mix temp are all critical factors that impact the overall results of an asphalt paving or patching project.

Continue below to learn more about the best temperatures for asphalt pavement work.

Indianapolis Indiana Asphalt Maintenance and Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Indiana Asphalt Maintenance and Repair 317-549-1833

Timing and Temperature Control for Asphalt Paving

Ambient, ground, and mix temperatures must all be well-monitored and managed, but there is more temperature control that comes into play after asphalt is poured. Contractors have to move very quickly to compact the mixture and smooth it all out before it can begin to cool, or cure. If asphalt mix cools to fast, there is no way to ensure full compaction, which leads to several pavement defects and extensive deterioration down the line. This is why proper asphalt installation is so vital.

Asphalt Mixture

The temperature of the asphalt mixture is a critical part of a successful pavement job. The most commonly used material is hot asphalt mix, which arrives on site at extreme temperature levels; usually between 275 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit. In order to lay the asphalt mixture initially, it must cool down to at least 290 degrees Fahrenheit, but as cool as 220 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything lower than 190 degrees Fahrenheit can cause the asphalt mix to cool to quickly, and therefore lead to poor compaction and unstable performance. Variables that impact the thickness and cure time include ground temperature, wind speed, and ambient temperature.

Ambient Temperature

Ambient temperature is the temperature of the air. For any type of pavement installation work, ambient temperatures should be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and in the best case scenario, climbing as the day progresses. Because wind speed can also impact how quickly asphalt mix cools, which can ultimately lead to a bad paving job, the ambient temperature for asphalt work ideally should be higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit on exceptionally windy days.

Ground Temperature

The temperature of the ground, both at the surface and below, are important factors to consider before laying asphalt. If the ground is to cold, proper installation may not be possible. If the ground is too hot, the asphalt mixture might not cool fast enough. Generally, the ideal ground temperature for asphalt work should be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit and climbing. The ground is usually cooler in the morning, so the temperature should rise throughout the day from 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

How are your commercial pavements looking this year? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial asphalt maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout Central Indiana. Request a bid, today.

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Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833