Asphalt and pavement are often terms that are used interchangeably. However, in reality they have very distinct meanings, uses and characteristics. For businesses or even homeowners you may have often wondered which one you need. To better understand the differences between asphalt and pavement, Andersen Asphalt & Striping would like to share what makes asphalt and pavement different.
What is Asphalt Made Of & What are the Benefits?
Asphalt uses a specific type of material that is used in road construction and is particularly used for creating pavements. It is a combination of materials that is made up of bitumen (a thick, black, viscous substance derived from crude oil), fine aggregate (such as sand), and coarse aggregate (small stones or gravel). There are different types of asphalt mixtures, such as hot mix asphalt, warm mix asphalt, and cold mix asphalt. Each type is designed and used for different situations and in specific climates. Some of the major benefits of using asphalt in road construction are:
• Durability: Asphalt is rather resistant to wear and tear. This makes it ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Flexibility: Asphalt is adaptive to the changes in various loads and ground movements. Its flexibility reduces the potential of crack development and other types of damages.
• Reduces Noise: Asphalt has a very smooth surface, which can help reduce the noise from traffic.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Asphalt is in general, cheaper than other pavement options such as concrete.
• Recyclable: Asphalt can also be recycled and reused easily, which helps reduce its impact on the environment.
What is the Meaning of Pavement?
Pavement is actually a general term that refers to any hard surface that has been constructed for the use of pedestrians or vehicles to travel on. Pavement can be made from a variety of materials, each having its own advantages as well as its disadvantages. Following are the different types of pavement.
• Asphalt Pavement: As previously covered, asphalt is a type of pavement. It is a flexible, durable, and cost-effective option, which is commonly used for roads, highways, parking lots, and driveways.
• Concrete Pavement: Concrete pavement is made from a different mixture. Concrete consists of cement, water, sand, and aggregates. Concrete pavements are more rigid and can last longer than asphalt pavements can, but they are also more expensive and can be prone to cracking. Concrete pavement is commonly used for sidewalks and driveways,
• Brick or Cobblestone Pavement: These pavements are often used for walkways, patios, and even around historical areas. They provide a better aesthetic appeal but they also tend to be less durable and require more maintenance than other pavement types.
• Permeable Pavement: Permeable pavement is a type of pavement that is designed to allow water to pass through. Permeable pavement helps to reduce surface runoff and improves stormwater management.
Asphalt Parking Lot & Road Pavement Resurfacing, Replacement & More in Reno, Elko, Henderson, North LV, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor, Las Vegas, NV | State of Nevada
Asphalt is a specific type of material used to create pavement, while pavement is a broader term that refers to any hard surface constructed for transportation purposes. For those who need help installing, maintaining, repairing or are in need of other asphalt pavement services, contact Andersen Asphalt & Striping today.
