Asphalt: What it is & Why we use it
Although asphalt did not become popular until the 1860’s, Asphalt is not new and has been getting used for more than 2000 years. It is a ubiquitous paving material composed of blended materials. Commonly it includes aggregates such as sand, gravel, and crushed stone that is then bound together with a petroleum-based binder. The chemical composites contain hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen and when combined these ingredients create a durable, flexible surface that can withstand immense traffic and weather elements.
Why we use it
Sustainability: Most countries in the world have access to this naturally occurring substance. Commercially produced asphalt can be milled and recycled to be used over-and-over making Asphalt a more sustainable resource. Based on similar building materials, Asphalt has one of the lowest impacts on the environment because it can be recycled
Constant innovation: Asphalt is constantly coming out with improvements making the product a more popular choice for future projects. One of these advancements includes the ability to quickly repair and maintain a roadway with minimal interruptions to traffic.
Versatility: Primarily used for roadways, parkways, and walkways, Asphalt also gets used in additional projects such as development of batteries, pools, roof shingles, paint, flooring, insulation, soundproofing, and additional waterproofing products.
Reduces noise: Gaps and spaces found in asphalt has been proven to reduce noise levels in cities by 3 to 5 decibels. The spaces trap air verses displaces the air where noise is generated.
Reduces Fuel Consumption: According to U.S. Federal Highway Administration, the gaps in the pavement that trap air verse displacing the air, also helps to reduce fuel consumption up to 4.5% for heavy weighted vehicles such as transport trucks.
Cost: Cost of asphalt is a lot cheaper to maintain then concrete. The components in asphalt are also stronger and offer more resilient protection then concrete.
Versatility: Applications for asphalt include roads, runways, railway beds, building construction, industrial worksites, agriculture, and recreational walking paths.
Cutting Through Asphalt
Asphalt is softer when compared to concrete, so it is well known that soft-bonded blades will not be able to cut through it. It is recommended to use a hard bond for a more effective cut. There are typically two types of blades used when cutting through asphalt, wet and dry blades.
Visit our Asphalt blades pages to learn more.
Or contact one of our team to speak to an experienced Asphalt cutter that can help you find a solution for your next project.
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