There are a number of different types of asphalt available. Which asphalt you choose, depends on the intended use, traffic conditions, climate and requirements of the project. Scroll down to find out more about the different types.
Cwrtnewydd, Llanybydder, SA40 9YL
Monday - Friday 7.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.
Asphalt
Ludchurch, Narberth SA67 8LE
Monday - Friday 7.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Open on weekends by appointment.
Asphalt
Bolton Hill Quarry, Tiers Cross, Haverfordwest SA62 3ER
Monday - Friday 7.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.
Asphalt
Old Gas Works, Llandarcy, Neath, SA10 6JY
Monday - Friday: 6am - 4pm. Other times by prior arrangement. An opening fee may apply for out-of-hours bookings.
Asphalt
Asphalt is widely used in the construction industry because it is an extremely versatile and cost effective material. It is extensively used in the construction of roads, footpaths and driveways but asphalt is also utilised in many other surface applications such as car parks, airport runways, sporting or race tracks, bicycle paths and roofing. GD Harries are an experienced asphalt contractor and we carry out not only domestic surfacing projects, such as driveways, but a significant amount of Highways work, all to Local Authority approved standards.
Asphalt offers many benefits when used in road construction. Being a durable material it is able to withstand heavy traffic and will resist a considerable amount of wear and tear. A new asphalt surface can be expected to last 20-30 years, depending on its usage. Providing a smooth and quiet finish, asphalt reduces noise and vibration on road surfaces offering a more comfortable ride. Asphalt also offers good resistance to skidding and improved traction for vehicles in wet or slippery conditions. It is designed to withstand various weather conditions including fluctuating temperatures, freezing conditions and UV exposure. It can be laid, compacted and ready for use after 2-3 days, making it a popular choice as a relatively quick construction method.
Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) is the most common type of asphalt used for road construction and general paving. The production of HMA includes several stages. Firstly, our aggregates are carefully selected and prepared in order to meet specific requirements in terms of cleanliness and grade. This may involve crushing, screening and washing to ensure they meet our specification. The aggregates are then dried, either in a rotary dryer or a heated drum to remove any moisture content. Heating the aggregates also helps with the subsequent mixing process. An asphalt binder is heated separately to reduce its viscosity and make it easier to mix with the aggregates.
The heated aggregates and asphalt binder are thoroughly mixed together ensuring an even distribution of binder throughout the mixture. Additives can be introduced during the mixing process, which may include polymers, fibres or other materials that will enhance the performance, durability or workability of the asphalt. The subsequent output is known as hot mix asphalt (HMA), which is transported to the construction site while still hot to maintain its workability. The HMA is then spread and compacted using heavy machinery to form a smooth and durable asphalt surface.
Warm mix asphalt (WMA) is similar to hot mix asphalt but is produced at lower temperatures. It incorporates additives or foaming techniques to lower the viscosity of the asphalt binder, reducing the energy required for mixing and compaction. WMA offers environmental benefits by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions during production.
Cold mix asphalt (CMA) is produced without the need for heating. It typically contains emulsified asphalt, which allows it to be mixed and compacted even in colder weather conditions. Cold mix asphalt is commonly used for temporary repairs, patching and pothole filling.
Permeable or porous asphalt surfaces can be used to manage stormwater effectively. It is made with larger particles of aggregate which allow water to infiltrate through the surface. This is good for use with pavements, allowing water to pass through the asphalt layer, reducing surface run-off.
Asphalt emulsion is a mixture of asphalt binder and water, stabilised with an emulsifying agent. It is commonly used in surface treatments and repairs, such as chip seals and slurry seals, to protect and rejuvenate existing asphalt surfaces. It is a cost-effective solution to preserve and maintain asphalt surfaces.
An asphalt concrete overlay is used to restore the condition of an asphalt road. It involves applying a new layer of asphalt over the existing surface to improve the condition and ride quality. The thickness of the asphalt overlay will depend on the condition of the road being treated.
GD Harries supply a range of bituminous materials and we can also prepare a product to your exact specification.
Our knowledgeable and experienced staff are always available to provide specialist advice and assistance regarding your project, contact our team today on 01834 860464.
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