Asphalt driveways don't last forever. As they age, they can get develop problems like cracks and potholes.
If your driveway has significant cracks in it, then you should fix this damage before it gets any worse. You know that you can use an asphalt filler to fill and seal the cracks but you might not be sure which type to use.
In some cases, it's best to use a hot-mix asphalt to fix cracks. What are the benefits?
1. A Speedy Repair
If your family relies on parking their cars on your driveway, then you don't want it to be out of action for long. Some asphalt mixes, like cold solutions, take a while to dry and harden. You might not be able to use the driveway while this happens.
A hot asphalt mix is applied at a high temperature; however, it cools down and hardens relatively quickly. So, this solution typically makes a surface usable in just a few hours.
2. Weather Resistance
Some asphalt repair solutions don't perform all that well in extreme temperatures. For example, crack sealant may go soft when the weather is particularly hot, or it may crack when temperatures drop a lot. This doesn't guarantee you a robust repair.
A hot mix is better at handling temperature extremes. It shouldn't melt or crack. Plus, you typically get a more flexible repair. Hot asphalt can expand and contract during temperature fluctuations without losing its core placement or integrity. Ultimately, it stays in the crack and keeps it filled.
Also, hot-mix asphalt deals with water and moisture more effectively than other alternatives do. It actually repels water, which helps prevent water from seeping into parts of your driveway where it can cause further damage.
3. Longer-Lasting Strength
A hot-mix asphalt repair doesn't just get its strength from its natural weather resistance; this is a robust solution that gives you a long-term rather than a short-term fix. A hot mix creates a strong filling for a crack that is less likely to get damaged itself even if it is subjected to heavy traffic.
This is why paving professionals prefer hot-mix asphalt over a cold product in some situations. While cold asphalt is good at giving a temporary repair, it may not provide a permanent solution.
To find out more about your options for asphalt repairs or for professional assistance with repairs, contact a local asphalt paving company.
Welcome! I started this blog because I want to help homeowners to identify problems with concrete structures on their property. By quickly recognising potential issues, you will be able to take steps to repair the concrete before things go badly wrong. I'm certainly no expert when it comes to this subject, but I have learnt lots of useful things from the contractor who came out to my home to complete repairs on a concrete wall. I've also done my own research into this subject at my local library and online. I hope you find the articles published here informative. Thanks!