Understanding the differences between hot mix vs. cold mix asphalt and learning what’s best for your project will help you choose the right material to ensure durability and long-term performance. Determine the right formulation for your application with help from American Asphalt, the Bay Area’s commercial asphalt paving services experts.
When to use hot mix asphalt
Hot mix asphalt offers a more durable, cost-effective, long-term solution for high-traffic commercial areas, parking lots, and roadways.
When to use cold mix asphalt
Cold mix asphalt is best for short-term use, like temporary patches and emergency repairs, until permanent pavement repairs can be performed.
Hot Mix Vs. Cold Mix Paving Comparison
Hot mix and cold mix asphalt offer distinct advantages:
Hot mix asphalt
- Formulation and application: Hot mix asphalt is produced and applied while hot (300-350°F), requiring specialty equipment and professional installation.
- Hot mix asphalt uses: Hot mix asphalt creates a dense, strong, polished surface ideal for parking lots, roadways, high-traffic commercial applications, and long-term new construction projects.
- Performance: Hot mix asphalt provides lasting performance through hot Bay Area summers, as well as the occasional cold Bay Area winter days.
- Hot mix asphalt value: Although hot mix asphalt installations cost more up front, they provide a better return on investment, lasting 15-20 years with proper care.
Cold mix asphalt
- Formulation and application: Cold mix asphalt is produced and applied at ambient temperature. It applies quickly and easily with minimal equipment.
- Cold mix asphalt uses: We recommend cold mix asphalt for short-term, low-traffic use, such as emergency pothole repairs and utility cut patching.
- Performance: Cold mix asphalt can be applied in hot, cold, or damp, rainy conditions, though heavy rain and standing water may prevent proper adhesion.
- Cold mix asphalt value: Cold mix asphalt costs less to install; however, it is less durable, lasting only a few weeks or months, depending on use.
Choosing the Best Asphalt Type for Commercial Paving Projects
When selecting between commercial paving asphalt options, consider how long you need your pavement to last. Cold mix asphalt provides a fast and easy application for short-term fixes and emergency repairs. However, hot mix asphalt offers a better solution for long-term, heavy traffic use, delivering lasting good looks and performance. If you’re having difficulty determining the best asphalt mixture for your project due to timeline and budgetary concerns, our paving experts can help find the ideal solution.
Ensure Durable, Lasting Asphalt Results
Hot mix vs. cold mix asphalt – what’s best for your project? American Asphalt’s trusted Bay Area paving contractors have you covered, providing thorough pavement evaluations to help you select the ideal product for your asphalt repair or installation needs and budget. Contact us at 510-723-0280 to schedule a project estimate today.