Cold & Hot Asphalt Patching – What’s The Difference?

Key Takeaways:

1. Hot mix asphalt is a blend of aggregate such as sand and gravel coupled with asphalt cement that must be heated before application.
2. Hot mix asphalt is ideal for large-scale paving projects such as roads, parking lots, and driveways due to its weather resistance, strength, and flexibility.
3. Cold mix asphalt is an alternative construction material that can withstand colder temperatures and is cheaper than hot mix.
4. Cold mix asphalt can provide quick and easy repairs but should only be used in the short term. Additionally, cold-mix asphalt must be handled by experienced tradespeople with specialized training.
5. 309 Paving Services offers 100% satisfaction on their work and provides free quotes for all property owners looking to patch asphalt.

Suppose you’re a home or business owner in Washington, IL, with an asphalt surface to care for. At some point, you will need to consider patching your pavement to repair minor damage. Hot and cold patching are your two primary options for asphalt patching.

While both offer advantages that can help meet your needs, it’s essential to know and understand the unique features of each before making any decisions.

309 Paving Services will explore these key differences between cold and hot asphalt patching. By the end of this blog post, you’ll better grasp how to determine which one is right for your project!

Hot Mix Asphalt Basics

Have you ever glanced at the highway crew hauling and laying down asphalt, with heat radiating from it? Well then, you’ve just witnessed a hot mix asphalt installation!

Hot mix asphalt is a blend of aggregate such as sand and gravel mixed with asphalt cement that must be heated before application. This mixture is heated to a temperature between 300-350 degrees Fahrenheit before transporting it for installation at the job location.

What is Hot Mix Asphalt Used For?

Hot mix asphalt is integral to most large-scale paving projects, such as roads, parking lots, and driveways. This versatile material has been used to pave hundreds of thousands of square miles across America – a testament to its effectiveness.

Advantages of Hot Mix Asphalt

Weather-Resistant

Asphalt is a favored paving material because it can remain robust in any climate. Hot mix asphalt can easily face the forces of wind, flooding, and snow/ice while using heat absorption properties to melt ice quicker than many other surfaces.

Quick Cool Down

Hot mix asphalt can be poured at over 300 degrees, but road closure times are often short due to its quick cooling time. With this material’s rapid temperature reduction, you may reopen the roadway and restore traffic flow in just a few hours!

Strength

Hot mix asphalt is the pinnacle of durability for paving surfaces; it’s why it has been chosen as a top choice for heavily trafficked roads and highways. In comparison, cold-mix asphalt does not have the strength to endure regular vehicular traffic.

Bend but Not Break

When compared to concrete, asphalt is a more resilient and flexible option. Its malleability allows it to contract and expand in various temperatures without breaking or becoming irreparably damaged. This trait makes it the perfect paving solution for areas that experience drastic temperature changes.

Disadvantages of Hot Mix Asphalt

More Expensive

Hot mix asphalt can be more expensive than other paving options, yet its cost is still below that of concrete. While it does come with a higher price tag initially, the fact that hot mix asphalt has an extended serviceable life makes it worth considering as your final option. Compare and contrast the costs against potential longevity before deciding to ensure you are getting the most value for your money.

Temperature Window

Hot mix asphalt must only be laid when it is at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit outside. It poses a challenge in several cold climates, as they cannot construct with hot mix asphalt for much of the year.

Also Read: 10 Indicators That It’s Time To Upgrade Your Parking Lot’s Line Striping

Cold Mix Asphalt Basics

Cold mix asphalt is an alternative construction material that doesn’t require the temperature window of hot mix asphalt. It contains a blend of aggregates, emulsified/cutback asphalt, and water to form a semi-solid product that can be easily handled and placed.

What is Cold Mixed Asphalt Used For?

When the weather gets chilly, hot mix asphalt is no longer an option for repairs on cracks and potholes. Instead, cold mix asphalt should be utilized due to its capability of withstanding colder temperatures; however, it must be noted that this type of asphalt is less robust than its warmer counterpart.

As such, if you require a repair job done correctly, use cold mix patching only to create temporary patches until more permanent solutions can occur using hotter mixes.

Advantages of Cold Mix Asphalt

Affordable

Cold mix asphalt is much more budget-friendly than hot mix, and the best part? You don’t have to buy large quantities as you do with hot mix. Instead, the cold mix can be purchased in single bags, ideal for small patches at a fraction of the cost.

Helpful

Whether you have a pothole in January or notice widening cracks in November, this versatile mix can avert further damage to your pavement and save you time and money.

Disadvantages Cold Mix Asphalt

Temporary

Cold mix asphalt is ideal for temporary repairs, such as filling in cracks or patching holes in winter. Although it can provide a quick and easy solution to any pavement problems, it should only be used with the understanding that its lifespan will likely be at most two seasons before you need to look into more permanent solutions.

More Affordable Than Hot Mix Asphalt

Cold mix asphalt presents a cost-effective alternative to hot mix asphalt, making it an appealing choice for various projects. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also boasts the advantage of easy installation. Additionally, its flexibility allows you to purchase and apply precise amounts that align with your specific project requirements, minimizing waste and optimizing cost efficiency.

Final Thoughts

Cold-mix asphalt is a viable solution for quick pavement repairs. However, hot-mix asphalt may be the ideal option to invest long-term in your property’s infrastructure. While it costs more upfront, its durability and longevity outweigh the cost difference in the long run. With careful preparation and research, you can ensure that your pavement will remain solid and stable for years.

What Makes 309 Paving Services the Ideal Asphalt Patching Crew in Washington, IL?

Regarding asphalt patching, 309 Paving Services’ certified team is the best in the business. We have years of experience patching asphalt potholes and fixing other damage to parking lots. We understand that a quick, reliable repair is crucial for keeping your lot looking great and functioning smoothly. That’s why we gladly offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on our work. We’re fully insured and always available to help with your parking lot needs.

Our team of professionals can assist you with any size job. We are more than happy to provide a free quote so that you can confidently choose the best option for your property.

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