How to Choose the Right Asphalt From the Top 3 Options?

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A roadway or parking lot, paving, etc., are constructed using several materials, but the most preferred material globally is asphalt. Asphalt companies in Castle Hill use different types of asphalt, and the right choice depends on the type of project to carry. It is very important that the right asphalt is chosen based on the project, as it will affect its durability, maintenance, etc. Three top kinds of asphalts are available, and we have covered the details here.

WHAT IS HOT MIX ASPHALT [HMA]?

According to the experts from asphalt companies in Castle Hill, hot mix asphalt is often referred to as a heavy-duty choice. It is the most commonly used asphalt and is prepared by heating the mixture to almost 300 degrees. This makes it a highly durable material for high-traffic areas like highways, commercial parking lots, etc. The downside of hot mix asphalt is that it is unsuitable for quick fixes and minor repairs.

The experts from asphalt companies Penrith have to mould and compact the hot mix asphalt under heavy pressure due to higher temperatures. This allows them to provide a smooth and sturdy surface.

WHAT IS WARM MIX ASPHALT [WMA]?

Asphalt companies in Castle Hill consider warm mix asphalt an eco-friendly option. It is completely different from hot mix asphalt, as it is produced at low temperatures and also cools down faster than hot mix asphalt. This is the main reason why asphalt companies in Penrith can use it even during cold weather conditions. It is an excellent choice for several projects like parking lot renovation, driveway renovation and so on. It is considered ideal as it minimises the environmental impact.

Another benefit is that it consumes less energy during production and emits a very low amount of greenhouse gases.

WHAT IS COLD MIX ASPHALT [CMA]?

Another very versatile version of asphalt used by asphalt companies Castle Hill is cold mix asphalt. It is a versatile and quick-fix solution used for minor repairs like potholes, cracks, patches, etc. Cold mix asphalt is mostly used in residential driveway paving, and driveway seal coating projects undertaken by asphalt companies in Penrith. It does not need heating during production and is ideal for quick and emergency repair work on any asphalt surface.

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT ASPHALT FOR YOUR PROJECT?

Several factors influence the choice, including the traffic and the weather, as both can impact the life of asphalt material. Apart from this, maintenance, durability , and cost are also there followed by environmental considerations.

Repair Asphalt Cracks Easily Timely Asphalt Patching

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Investing in good-quality asphalting services in Penrith is essential to keep any asphalt construction in good condition. With timely maintenance and look after, any asphalt construction can stay in good condition for more than 20 years, but a significant stipulation here is timely look after and maintenance. This maintenance has to be done every couple of years, according to asphalt contractors, but I suggest keeping it more frequent, and inspection is something not to be missed out on at all. 

A major issue that any asphalt surface faces is cracks getting developed, and they are not good for the overall health of any asphalt construction. They make way for the water to seep inside, and as a result, the surface begins to deteriorate and eventually break down. Asphalt patching is very useful as far as handling these cracks is concerned.

Top-rated asphalt contractors Penrith recommend taking the following steps upon noticing the cracks on any asphalt surface.

PREPARING THE AREA FOR TOUCHING

As mentioned above, patching is the most effective method to eliminate cracks from any asphalt surface. This patching is done after some preparation work, and the steps are listed below.

Clean the affected area to ensure that the patching material adheres easily

Use a hammer and chisel to remove the broken pieces of asphalt 

Use a wire brush to remove dirt and debris from the crack

After these three steps, you must use a compressed air gun to blow away all the lost debris. Then, a garden hose will be needed to flush out the crack and clean it thoroughly. However, you must ensure that the area is completely dry before patching.

Professionals from asphalt companies in Australia care for their safety by equipping themselves with safety kits like safety goggles and rubber boots.

STEPS TO REPAIR SMALL CRACKS

The first step taken by top asphalt contractors in Penrith is using rubberised asphalt emulsion crack filler to fix small cracks. They ensure that the crack filler is not applied on unaffected areas, as it can stain the driveway. This is why asphalt contractors in Penrith use a caulking gun to apply this fill-up during asphalt services in Penrith.

Now, they use a trowel or a putty knife to smooth these cracks. Rubberised gloves are also effective in levelling the surface in case of their unavailability. Then, you must leave it to dry completely before using the prepared area. This drying will take almost a day or two, and you can use the surface quickly. But the layers beneath the top layer will take nearly two weeks to harden completely. It is recommended not to seal the driveway during this time as this will restrict the air from entering the area to dry the surface.