Are There Different Types of Asphalt?

Are There Different Types of Asphalt?

August 30, 2019

If you’re looking at options for paving your driveway or lot, you may be considering asphalt. However, even if you’ve decided that asphalt is the best material for your project, you may not know that there are several different types of asphalt in Kentucky to choose from. Learn more about the different asphalt types in Kentucky below, and choose the type that’s best for your project so you have the best quality lot or driveway possible.

The different grades of asphalt

The first thing to know about your options when it comes to types of asphalt in Kentucky is that there are different grades on the market. I-2 is known as the base, I-5 is known as the top and I-4 is known as the commercial grade. The I-2 base consists of three quarters of an inch of stone, and is often used in corn stabilizing level. The I-5 grade, or top, is what is commonly used in driveways and lots for homeowners and businesses to pave in front of their property. I-4, the commercial grade, is made of a mixture of ¾ inch of stone and is used when there is a need for added stability and strength, such as in commercial applications.

The different types of asphalt

In addition to the different grades, there are also different asphalt types in Kentucky. For homeowners, the two types that are available are 41A and 41B. While these types of asphalt are similar, they do have some differences. For instance, 41A is typically what is used for driveways, and as a result is often referred to as the driveway mix. It has a mixture of rock and sand that is fine in diameter and includes an oil content up to 6 percent. The oil is added to the mixture to combine, as well as applied to the area for the asphalt driveway. If the user decides to add more oil than that, it can hold the sand and rock together even better. However, the downside is that it makes the asphalt more susceptible to heavy weight and machinery doing damage, as well as marks and cracks.

41B is a mix of larger rock and sand, with rocks measuring up to 5/8 inch. Plus, the oil content is smaller, only about 5 percent on this type. The slight difference in composition of the mixture creates an asphalt that allows for heavier loads and equipment to be operated on it without risk of damage. In fact, it can withstand up to one ton of weight. The disadvantage of this mixture is that the surface is not as smooth as 41A, which is why 41A is commonly chosen for personal driveways, in which appearance matters more than being able to withstand an outrageous amount of weight.

Are you in need of an asphalt paving provider? K.O. Asphalt can help you choose the type of asphalt in Kentucky that is best for your application and needs. We are locally owned and operated and always put our customers first. Give us a call today to talk about your project.

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