Most driveways and roadways are comprised of a material called asphalt. Asphalt, also known as bitumen, is a sticky, black, semi-solid form of petroleum or resin. But what is asphalt made of?
Asphalt is used as a binder when mixed with aggregate particles that help make the surface hard. The aggregate is mostly made from particles of sand, gravel and stone. Asphalt can be manufactured by man or found naturally in places like the Dead Sea.
Asphalt concrete is the most common form of asphalt used in America. About 85% of asphalt used in the U.S. is asphalt concrete and is used to make up roadways, driveways, and parking lots. Asphalt is highly viscous, meaning it has a thick and sticky consistency between solid and liquid. Because of this, it has to be heated before it is mixed with aggregates.
Asphalt is laid when it is hot and hardens as it cools. With regular use, asphalt will not last forever. The constant presence of oxygen and water on the surface of the asphalt creates a chemical change. This change first allows the pavement to harden and strengthen itself, but as time goes by, it contributes greatly to the deterioration of the asphalt.
Is your driveway or parking lot cracking and taking away from the attractiveness of your property? Are you having problems shoveling snow and ice from the surface? Do you notice bumps or waves in the pavement that weren’t there before? Has your driveway lost its brilliant black coloring and now lays faded and grey?
An asphalt paving company in Maryland can help you with all of these bothersome issues and more! Professionals will help you determine if you need the entire driveway replaced or simply need to spot-treat a specific area. A reliable paving company will speak with you to assess your needs and desires for your paving project, work around your budget, and complete the paving process with professionalism and care.
For a Maryland asphalt company that you can trust, hire 1-855-GOT-PAVING! We pride ourselves on tailoring our paving projects to your specific needs, using state certified and high quality material, and employing a highly experienced crew that is prompt and professional. Contact us today to get a quote for your new asphalt driveway, or to inquire about our other paving services!
