Different Types of Hot Asphalt Paving

Like everything else in this world, there are hundreds of options when it comes to anything, including asphalt.

Let’s take something complicated and simplify it.

Here are the four most commonly used types of asphalt when it comes to residential asphalt, from most to least durable:

HL3 Commercial

HL3 Fine

HL2

HL1

Asphalt Key Note

The more stone content in asphalt, the more durable.

Most Durable: HL3 Commercial

Least Durable: HL1

But… What’s The Difference?

The REAL question is – what differentiates strong from weak asphalt?

The answer to that question is simple, but first, you need to know the Three Components of Asphalt:

1) Gravel

2) Stone-dust

3) Tar

Follow this rule of thumb: The MORE gravel content, the STRONGER the asphalt.

You may ask “Which type of asphalt has the most gravel.. and how much gravel is a sufficient amount?”

Let’s dig (no pun intended) into the four most common types of asphalt paving as stated above, and analyze the components of each type.

Different Compositions of Asphalt Paving

HL3 Commercial

Gravel
Stone-Dust
Durability (High)
Gravel Content (High)
Lifespan (High)
Coarse Texture (High)

Goals

Long-term lifespan and heavy vehicles, costs less long-term in repairs. Good for investment property, personal home, and commercial projects.

Frustrations

Rocky-like texture and appeal.

HL3 Fine

Gravel
Stone-Dust
Durability (Medium)
Gravel Content (Medium)
LifeSpan (Medium)
Coarse Texture (Medium)

Goals

Medium-term lifespan and medium-sized vehicles.

Frustrations

Might crack from heavy vehicles.

HL2

Gravel
Stone-Dust
Durability (Low)
Coarse (Low)
Lifespan (Low)
Gravel Content (Low)

Goals

Short-Medium lifespan.

Frustrations

Could crack from small vehicles and requires lots of maintenance.

HL1

Gravel
Stone-Dust
Durability (Very Low)
Gravel Content (None)
Lifespan (Very Low)
Coarse (None)

Goals

Purely cosmetic, lowest cost of installation.

Frustrations

Very fragile, highest costs on repairs and maintenance.