Atlanta Roadway Paving – Asphalt vs. Pavement Differences

Atlanta roadway paving makes getting around this wonderful city possible, creating hard surfaces that can easily support vehicles. The ATL reportedly has more than 25,000 miles of roadways, with new construction happening every day. When planning an asphalt paving project, you’ll hear two common terms thrown around: Asphalt and pavement. In this blog, we’ll explore how these terms differ and relate to your blacktop paving project.

What Is Asphalt Paving?

Asphalt is a type of paving material, and it’s the most widely used for roadways. You’ll also see it utilized for building parking lots, driveways, loading docks, and other hard surfaces. Also referred to as blacktop paving, this material has a distinct look and finish. It’s a composite material that contains a mix of aggregates, fillers, and a binder called bitumen.

Bitumen is a petroleum byproduct that binds the various aggregates together. It’s also what gives blacktop paving its distinct, glossy black finish. What makes black top paving unique is its versatility. Atlanta blacktop paving companies can construct a wide range of surfaces, engineering pavement to meet your specific needs. In the case of roadway paving, asphalt paving contractors lay up to 12 inches of material to create driving surfaces that can accommodate even the busiest traffic.

What Is Pavement?

Pavement is a more general term that describes any hard surface, including blacktop paving in Atlanta. Pavement projects can utilize asphalt. However, they can also take advantage of the properties of materials like concrete. Generally, when you hear the term “pavement,” contractors use it to describe other complementary surfaces, such as sidewalks. Pavement can accompany asphalt paving, providing more options for people to get around.

What Makes Asphalt a Top Choice for Atlanta Roadway Paving?

There are many reasons why black top paving is the go-to for Atlanta roadways. Not only is it versatile, but it is also long-lasting. When built correctly by skilled contractors, blacktop paving in Atlanta can last 30 years or more.

The material is also easier to maintain. Unlike other forms of pavement that use concrete, asphalt pavement doesn’t require extensive downtime or reconstruction to address issues like cracking or potholes. Repairs are relatively quick, easy, and cost-effective, making them easier to manage with limited municipal budgets.

Asphalt is also more cost-effective and sustainable. Blacktop paving in Atlanta costs less to install than concrete pavement, and contractors can use recycled aggregates to reduce the environmental impact of a project.

How Do Contractors Install Atlanta Roadway Paving?

Black top paving projects are multi-step endeavors. After excavating the area, Atlanta blacktop paving companies will build a sub-base foundation. This process typically involves amending the soil to improve its load-bearing capabilities, introducing a new base layer of loose aggregates, and thoroughly compacting it. Contractors will also need to perfect drainage elements, ensuring the foundation has the proper slope to manage water runoff effectively.

Next, Atlanta blacktop paving companies lay hot asphalt and compact it with heavy-duty rollers. After curing, the surface is ready for action.

When you need asphalt pavement done right, turn to The Surface Masters. We take great pride in serving clients like you, leveraging our extensive expertise to deliver exceptional results every time. We never cut corners, rush jobs, or skimp on quality. Instead, we work diligently to exceed your expectations and provide a final product that lasts.

The Surface Masters is a full-service blacktop paving company, offering services like fresh paving, resurfacing, milling, reclamation, repairs, crack sealing, sealcoating, and more. Contact us today to learn more and receive a complimentary quote. You can reach The Surface Masters at (770) 250-6392, email info@thesurfacemasters.com, or submit your contact information through our online form.