Now is the perfect time to fill asphalt cracks and potholes before the snow flies.
However, understanding the differences between hot mix and cold patch asphalt will help you choose the best products for your customers.
In this blog post, we break down the pros and cons of each type, so you can make an informed decision for your business.
Hot Mix Asphalt
Hot mix asphalt is best for filling cracks and potholes in the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and dry.
Also, keep in mind that there can’t be any precipitation on the day of asphalt installation.
Otherwise, the layers of hot mix asphalt won’t be able to stick to each other.
The ground also needs to be warm, which means you won’t be able to install hot mix asphalt once the ground freezes for winter.
Hot mix asphalt is mixed at around 300 degrees Fahrenheit and must be kept at a high temperature for proper installation.
However, cold air temperatures and frozen ground can quickly cool hot mix asphalt, decreasing its functionality and lifespan.
Cold Patch Asphalt
While cold patch asphalt is a temporary solution to potholes, it still has its uses.
For example, if an asphalt parking lot is nearing the end of its natural lifespan, your client may prefer filling in a pothole with cold patch asphalt than paying the cost of hot mix asphalt.
Cold patch asphalt products are also perfect for filling winter potholes until hot mix asphalt can be applied in the spring.
Like the name suggests, cold patch asphalt doesn’t need to be stored or installed at high temperatures.
In fact, you can store bags of cold patch asphalt either inside or outside.
The oils in cold patch asphalt keep the mixture malleable enough to use in cold weather.
However, this also makes cold patch asphalt too soft to be considered a permanent solution.
You won’t need heavy machinery to install cold patch asphalt.
Simple clear any loose asphalt chunks, dirt, or other debris from the pothole before filling in the hole with cold patch asphalt.
Then, you’ll need to use a tamper to compact the cold patch asphalt. Cold patch products simple to use and can be installed year-round.
What Asphalt Products Should I Use?
Hot mix asphalt is best for filling cracks and potholes in warm dry weather.
Cold patch products, on the other hand, are well-suited for installing in cooler weather.
For this reason, many asphalt sealcoating contractors decide to use cold patch asphalt as a temporary solution until the weather warms up.
Cold patch products are durable enough to get you through the winter until springtime asphalt paving, although some brands claim to be a permanent solution like UPM® cold mix.
B&E Seal Coat Products Inc. is a Grand Rapids sealcoat and asphalt supplier dedicated to helping contractors stock up on the products they need to run their businesses.
If you are interested in our hot mix asphalt and cold patch asphalt products, give us a call at (616) 608-6169.
