Roads play a crucial role in modern society, which is why they should be made from the best, most beneficial material, like asphalt. Asphalt is made of aggregate material – sand, stone or gravel – that is bound together by a small amount of asphalt cement. Since the asphalt cement is highly viscous, it must be heated so that it can be mixed with the aggregates at a special facility. Only then is the mixed material trucked to the construction site, where it will be spread and compacted into finished pavement using products from road safety companies.
Asphalt needs no cure time. Cars, trucks and all manner of vehicles are typically allowed on the new asphalt road as soon as it is cooled, meaning fewer delays. Asphalt road surfaces offer myriad benefits, including cost efficiency, durability and resilience. Some benefits of asphalt roads include the following:
Smooth and Comfortable
When vehicles travel on a smooth road, they consume 4.5% less fuel than when traveling on a rough one. Since asphalt is a flexible pavement that is built in multiple layers, with a continuous flow of material moving through the asphalt paver, it doesn’t need any construction joints. It consistently gives the public a smooth, quiet ride that reduces wear and tear on vehicles, increases fuel efficiency and leads to a longer pavement life.
Safe
There is a range of asphalt types and mixtures that can offer the right solution for all types of weather and road conditions, which maximises safety for all road users. For example, there are porous asphalt mixtures that allow rain to drain from the surface, reducing spray that can compromise your visibility. There are also mixtures designed to offer high skid resistance for areas that are most likely to experience hard braking. Asphalt’s smooth surface also provides increased skid resistance.
Additionally, the dark colour of asphalt absorbs the sun’s heat, not only reducing glare in bright conditions but also melting ice on the road in winter. The high contrast of black pavement and white markings also make it easier for motorists to understand parking and driving regulations, which keeps them and other road users safe.
Cost-Efficient and Recyclable
Asphalt has low initial costs, lasts longer and because of its recyclability, it has residual value that is greater than other pavements. Using recycled asphalt also produces considerable savings. You can easily recycle asphalt just by crushing it and then reheating and remixing it. Recycled asphalt is just as high-quality, clean and durable as new asphalt.
Flexible
Asphalt is the flexible option for any road. Unlike other, more brittle material, it doesn’t crack under high stress from traffic or the climate. It can withstand overloading and a lot more use before showing any signs of deterioration. Asphalt can also be optimised for all types and sizes of roads and lanes. For example, the asphalt layers can be thinner in lightly-trafficked pavements such as in suburban areas.
The advantages of asphalt are many. It is safe, smooth, flexible, cost-efficient and recyclable, making it the superior choice for pavement needs.
