top of page

The Advantages of Asphalt

  • Writer: Stacie Newmann
    Stacie Newmann
  • Jan 21, 2021
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 29, 2021

There is no secret why asphalt is the material of choice for municipal, commercial, and residential consumers. Based on statistics, more than 93% of highways and roadways are surfaced with asphalt, and 90% of commercial parking lots and residential driveways are constructed using asphalt. There are real advantages.


Line Striping and Pavement Marking
Asphalt Delivers, Safety

Safety First: Because asphalt is naturally dark in color, it reduces the amount of glare from sunlight. Snow and ice melt quickly on its surface, thus preventing skidding, accidents on roadways, and slip and falls in parking lots and driveways. Asphalt’s high contrasting color also provides clear, crisp markings, visible to motorists and patrons of businesses.


Smooth Ride: Smooth-surfaced roadways mitigate driver fatigue and increase driver control. Smooth surfaces reduce tire friction, which means less wear and tear on vehicles, better fuel economy, and an all-around better driving experience. For the commercial consumer, a smooth and well-maintained parking lot lets your patrons know that you care about their well being and experience with their business.


Cost-effective: Who doesn’t want to save money? : Contractors can build asphalt roads, parking lots, and driveways more quickly and efficiently. Asphalt is a “perpetual pavement,” which means they are a flexible and durable, multi-layered surface designed for high traffic and various weight loads. Perpetual pavements require minimal maintenance and withstand the test of time. Concrete is more difficult and costly to maintain. Asphalt can be repaired cost-effectively and with ease because of its ability to be heated and resurfaced.


Quiet. Who likes the rumble strip experience of concrete? : Asphalt roads reduce highway noise as much as seven decibels.


Superior Asphalt, Inc. Road Crew

Traveler and Business Friendly: Because asphalt surfaces do not require curing time or expensive site preparation, traffic is permitted as soon as the rollers have finished compacting the asphalt. Projects can be completed in less than one day, leaving routes open for travelers and businesses to operate with little disruption to their commerce. Homeowners can park on driveways within two days of construction.



Environmentally Friendly: Asphalt is 100% recyclable and is the most recycled material in America. It requires 20% less energy to produce and construct versus other pavement material. Recycling asphalt reduces the number of materials that go into landfills every year, thus conserving natural resources and protecting wildlife. The asphalt industry is continually working towards sustainable goals and recognizes and supports asphalt businesses for their efforts.


https://theasphaltpro.com/articles/superior-asphalt-wins-2017-ecological-award/


Durability: Asphalt pavements are built to last. They are constructed in three layers; subbase course, aggregate base course, and asphalt surface course layer. Each plays an integral role in the pavement’s ability to withstand various weight loads and weather fluctuations. Asphalt pavement only needs periodic maintenance to remain in good working condition, such as sealcoating every few years, intermittent crack filling, and patching. Asphalt has less of a tendency to crack because of its flexible nature.


Asphalt Is Aesthetically Pleasing: Asphalt’s dark, smooth surface is beautifully contrasting to any landscape.


There are numerous advantages to choosing asphalt, all of which add significant value for the consumer. Asphalt surfaces are safe, smooth, and durable. Asphalt roads, parking lots, and driveways are efficient to construct and environmentally friendly. This sustainable material is long-lasting and provides the municipal, commercial, and residential consumer with an aesthetically pleasing pavement.


Superior Asphalt, Inc. has over 35 years in the asphalt industry and has earned the respect of our peers nationwide. We are committed to upholding our industry's sustainable goals by educating our customers, providing them with technologically advanced, durable asphalt material, and expertly constructing pavements built to last.


Want to know more? Here are some industry resources.




https://www.apa-mi.org/






Comments


bottom of page