In the asphalt paving industry, a concerning trend has emerged with some contractors and trucking companies falsely advertising recycled asphalt as Asphalt rather than specifying hot mix asphalt or recycled asphalt. They know they can get away with this because the average customer does not know the difference between recycled and hot mix asphalt. So, if they simply say they provide asphalt, they are being vague and can easily be deceptive. Customers must be aware of these tactics and understand the real differences between these two materials.
Hot Mix Asphalt: The Gold Standard
Hot Mix Asphalt is a premium paving material composed of a blend of aggregates (such as stone, sand, and gravel) and asphalt cement. This mixture is heated and mixed at a central plant, then transported to the site for laying and compaction. Hot Mix Asphalt’s strength lies in its durability and ability to withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather, making it the preferred choice for highways and major roads.
Recycled Asphalt: A Different Material
Recycled Asphalt Pavement is produced by milling up old asphalt and repurposing it for new pavement. Eco-friendly and cost-efficient, Recycled Asphalt Pavement nevertheless has limitations. Importantly, treatments like sealer, diesel, or motor oil do not enhance the quality of Recycled Asphalt Pavement; these claims are misleading.
- Sealer is for Hot Mix Asphalt: A Sealer or seal coat is used on Hot Mix Asphalt for weatherization and beautification purposes. It acts similarly to paint for your driveway or parking lot, enhancing appearance and protection. Using a sealer on materials like Recycled Asphalt Pavement is not practical. It’s like to painting dirt or loose rocks – ineffective and illogical.
- Misuse of Diesel: Diesel is traditionally used in the asphalt industry to break down Hot Mix Asphalt and clean equipment. However, a misconception has arisen, likely from someone with no industry experience, leading to the incorrect promotion of diesel as a beneficial treatment for asphalt.
- Motor Oil: Using motor oil on recycled asphalt is a bad idea. It creates a messy surface that never fully dries and can stick to shoes and tires, leading to more problems than solutions.
Key Differences Between Hot Mix Asphalt and Recycled Asphalt
- Composition and Quality: Hot Mix Asphalt is a carefully crafted mix of new materials, ensuring consistent quality. Recycled Asphalt is made from reclaimed/milled asphalt and generally lacks the same binding qualities that allow for tight compaction and not just surface compaction like you get with recycled asphalt.
- Durability and Longevity: Hot Mix Asphalt boasts superior durability and longevity, particularly under heavy use and extreme conditions. Recycled Asphalt Pavement, though functional, cannot match this level of performance and will require more maintenance.
- Installation Techniques: Laying Hot Mix Asphalt requires specialized equipment for placing the material. Recycled Asphalt Pavement installation is less complex and requires less equipment.
- Cost Comparison: Recycled asphalt is significantly cheaper than Hot Mix Asphalt, reflecting its different qualities and applications. Recycled asphalt is currently $20-30 a ton whereas Hot Mix Asphalt is $75-$90 per ton.
- Intended Use: Recycled Asphalt Pavement can be suitable for less demanding applications, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, especially for surfaces requiring high durability.
Avoiding Misrepresentation
To avoid scams, always confirm with your contractor whether they are using hot mix or recycled asphalt. Be skeptical of any claims suggesting that Recycled Asphalt Pavement can be modified to match the qualities of Hot Mix Asphalt, especially using simple treatments. These assertions are often a sign of either a lack of industry knowledge or an intent to deceive.
Conclusion
While both Hot Mix Asphalt and Recycled Asphalt Pavement have their construction places, they are fundamentally different materials with distinct properties and applications. As a customer, being informed and asking direct questions is crucial to ensure you receive the material best suited for your project. Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay vigilant and make informed decisions to avoid falling victim to misleading sales practices.
Please reach out to us for either of these two services, we specialize in both recycled asphalt and hot mix asphalt. We believe in honesty and transparency. We service, Quinlan, Royse City, Poetry, Union Valley, Terrell, Greenville, Caddo Mills, Rockwall, and other DFW areas.
