When it comes to laying large amounts of asphalt, our scorching summers are the best time to do this. read what’s the difference b/w summer vs winter asphalt
Asphalt is asphalt, right?
Wrong! It may seem that way to the layman (you), but asphalt isn’t all the same. Expert paving contractors are well-versed in the different varieties of asphalt and how the composition of each depends on the seasons.
For example, the most common varieties are summer asphalt and winter asphalt. Although both are hard, black paving materials made up of tiny rocks bound by tar, they have several important differences.
Let’s take a closer look!
Summer Asphalt
Summer asphalt is specially designed for being used during December, January, and February – it’s in the name. It’s commonly used for paving large-scale areas, such as roads, large driveways, and parking lots.
Otherwise known as ‘hot asphalt,’ this type of asphalt is mixed at 135 to 163 degrees Celsius. It must stay at this temperature and be applied on warm, dry surfaces, making our hot summers the best time to use it. Once ready, it needs to be applied quickly to prevent it from cooling. However, it can be reheated using fuel-powered heating systems.
Winter Asphalt
Winter asphalt doesn’t need to be kept at a consistently high temperature, making it the ideal variety for application on cold, wet surfaces. As its name implies, winter asphalt is specially designed for use over the winter months of June, July, and August. Its insensitivity to cold temperatures means it can even be stored for later paving projects!
Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to laying large amounts of asphalt, our scorching summers are the best time to do this. If you’re looking to pave driveways, pavements, roads, or parking lots, you should choose summer asphalt. Winter months, on the other hand, are better for patching and repairs.
That’s where winter asphalt comes in! When asphalt is applied to cold, wet surfaces, the curing process takes longer and isn’t really viable. This means that applying winter asphalt in smaller batches is more economical and efficient, making it perfect for patching and repairing. Choose winter asphalt if your asphalt surface needs repairs, and only do so when it’s cold.
If you’d like to learn more about asphalt, it’s benefits, varieties, and uses, visit C Aurora Paving’s blog here!
With almost 50 years of experience paving residential and commercial properties with asphalt, we’ve got the expertise you need. Whether you need your asphalt driveway repaired, resurfaced, or a brand new one installed, our paving services are strategic, cost-effective, and environmentally conscious.
Contact us for installing asphalt driveway at your property.