Asphalt Paving Information
Not everyone is familiar with the granular details of asphalt pavement. Did you know that asphalt paving is so important that the United Stated Government sponsored research into making the best paving method for highways. This method is now called "Super Pave Method". It is based on years of research and testing to simulate the conditions that asphalt pavement endures as the surface of roads and highways. Here at Metro Asphalt we use the best methods to create the most reliable pavement product.
Asphalt is different from Concrete pavement in its bonding material. Both pavements use aggregates held together by bonding agents to create a solid material.
Asphalt includes sharp, angular, jagged aggregates and bonds them together using bitumen bonder.
Asphalt is placed HOT, close to 150 degrees Celsius. That will melt just about anything it touches. When it is hot, it is easy to pave. It is stamped, rolled, and packed into place. Compaction is key in asphalt paving. The Super Pave Method discovered that proper compaction can add years of service to the final product.
Once compacted, the new asphalt pavement requires time to cool, slowly, so that it reaches proper strength and bonding. During this period it is critical to STAY OFF the pavement. It is hot, but it is very soft and susceptible to deformations and delamination if tampered. Its similar to a fresh pan of brownies that are still hot, try to cut it and its a mess. This means no traffic, vehicle or pedestrian, can be on the pavement. Sometimes putting water on the new installation can help reduce the cool down time while not disturbing the form of the pavement. This is usually done during the summer months when temperatures are high and cooling will take longer. During the winter months adding water is not necessary.
For more information on how to take care of your new asphalt pavement, please visit our maintenance page here