Hot Mix Asphalt 

This is the most common type of asphalt that is used for driveways. The mixture is made up of aggregate as well as asphalt cement. The material is combined and heated to create the final product. This mixture is poured into the paving site. A compactor is used to press it into the right shape. 

Hot mix asphalt dries with a rich black shade. As such, it can add to the curb appeal. Another benefit is that it’s easier to repair, ensuring that maintenance is cost friendly as well as simple. 

If cracks do develop in your asphalt driveway, they can be fixed as a DIY project using the right filling. Alternatively, it’s easy to find a professional solution to fix this issue without any delays. 

Recycled Asphalt 

This material is 100% recycled and provides the same level of durability as alternatives. In general, it is also available at a lower price.

One of the main benefits of recycled asphalt driveways is that it keeps used asphalt out of landfills.

In terms of aesthetics, these driveways are a lighter shade compared to other forms of asphalt. This ensures that the driveway stands out from the rest of the street.

Some contractors have also suggested that recycled asphalt is more durable and will last longer. The reason for this is that recycled asphalt may have an increased level of stiffness. This reduces the chance of cracks developing overtime which is the most common reason for repairs. As well being used on driveways, recycled asphalt is chosen for:

  • Parking lots
  • Landscaping 
  • Commercial properties

Porous Asphalt 

Porous asphalt is suitable if there is runoff water from the driveway. With this type of asphalt the clue is in the name. It’s permeable and covered with pores. This ensures that the water travels through underneath the asphalt to the rock bed. The water can then reach the soil and travel back into the water tables.

It is mainly suited for homes that are built in urban areas or where there are surrounding roads that are also made from asphalt. Materials like this make it more difficult for water to reach the soil. Porous asphalt can be the right solution to this issue. 

Grading

There are two different levels of grading for asphalt. These are 41 A and 41 B. 41 A is commonly referred to as the driveway mix. As such, it should come as no surprise that this is typically used for driveway. One key point to consider here is the level of oil included in the mixture. The oil content can reach up to 6%. However, more oil will mean that the asphalt is susceptible to issues with both marks and weight. 

The main difference between 41 B and 41 A is that the former has a larger rock and sand mixture. They can be up to ⅝ of an inch in size.

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