Tag Archives: hot mix asphalt

A Quick Comparison of Warm Mix Asphalt and Hot Mix Asphalt

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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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Will Asphalt Patching Fix Potholes?

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Right now, asphalt potholes are spreading faster than ever. After the winter freeze-thaw cycles, this is expected. Potholes are frustratingly unsightly, but worse, hazardous. It is in your best interest to repair potholes in your asphalt promptly and responsibly. When it comes to fixing potholes in asphalt pavement, two priorities must be taken in order to have successful, long-lasting results: proper preparation and proper materials.

Asphalt patching is an excellent solution to shallow potholes, and even more so for ones that continue to reform after repair. Whether you choose asphalt cold patching or hot asphalt mix, potholes can be fixed with the right approach.

Scroll down to review some more information about pothole repair, including how asphalt patching can be the solution you’ve been looking for when it comes to your pavement damages.

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

Asphalt Cold Patching and Pavement Repair

It is possible to implement asphalt patching pothole repair on your own, but it is not recommended. For long-lasting results, choose a licensed, bonded, and insured paving company that specializes in commercial asphalt work. They will have access to the best materials and equipment, and better yet, retain the required knowledge and skills on how to repair asphalt correctly.

Asphalt Patching Materials

As mentioned, the two key elements to a successful and lasting asphalt pothole repair project is implementing the proper preparation and using the proper materials. When it comes to asphalt potholes, asphalt cold mix is the recommended pavement patching material to use. Additionally, asphalt cracks can be repaired with stones and magic epoxy.

Now comes the question of using cold mix or hot mix asphalt. The answer really depends on the unique details of your specific application. Cold mix asphalt works well for patching up potholes, but only if done precisely. If you are planning to do your own pothole repairs, cold mix is the way to go.

However, hot mix asphalt is the universally-suggested asphalt patching mix to use for pothole repairs in asphalt pavements. Talk to your trusted commercial paving contractor for advice on which asphalt repair material is best for your intended application.

Are you ready to have your commercial asphalt potholes repair professionally this Spring and Summer? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial asphalt paving and pothole repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also provide sealcoating services.

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Commercial and Industrial Pavement Repair
Commercial and Industrial Pavement Repair