What is Asphalt?
Asphalt is a hot blend of bitumen and aggregate that is meticulously manufactured at a designated industrial facility and subsequently transported to site by a specialised tip truck.
Upon arrival, the asphalt is deposited into a paver, which imparts a consistently even layer of the product onto the roadway. Subsequently, it is compacted while still in its heated state.
Asphalt exhibits exceptional resistance to significant turning movements, thereby providing enhanced structural integrity to the pavement. This particular product finds its optimal application in high-stress areas such as intersections, roundabouts, and for smaller patchwork. Should the need arise, the material can be opened to vehicular traffic immediately upon compaction.
Asphalting can be tailored to achieve heightened surface strength, improved water drainage, or increased resistance to cracking. This specialised treatment yields a refined surface texture, smoothness and minimal traffic-induced noise.
The longevity of this product is contingent upon multiple factors, including the thickness of the asphalt layer, the underlying base strength, and the volume of traffic utilising the road.
In general, highly trafficked roads can expect a service life exceeding ten years, while residential streets often provide an impressive 25 to 30 years of dependable service.
Asphalt thickness may range from 20mm to 60mm and can be adjusted as necessary to accommodate the demands of various vehicle movements.
Why We Don't Asphalt Every Road?
Asphalting costs significantly more than resealing or micro-surfacing, therefore in order for the City to upgrade all roads needing rejuvenation, opting for a more cost-effective option to allow the road a few more years before it requires asphalting is the best choice.
Where needed, especially in high-trafficked areas, asphalt will be used.