Asphalt and bitumen have become the default surfacing materials for good reason. They are durable, good value, safe and comparatively quiet, which is why you find them under roads, car parks and driveways everywhere. Here is what they bring, and how to think about which one suits a given job.
The difference between them
The two words get used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Asphalt is a mix of aggregate, crushed rock, sand or gravel, bound together by bitumen, and laid for a smooth, hard-wearing finish. Bitumen is the binder itself, a thick, dark, sticky liquid refined from crude oil with strong adhesive properties and good resistance to water and oil. A bitumen seal is sprayed bitumen covered with aggregate. Asphalt gives the smoother, more durable surface; bitumen sealing is economical, particularly over larger areas.
What they do well
Durability. Both stand up to heavy traffic and hard weather, which means a long service life and fewer interruptions for repair.
Lower maintenance. A well-laid, well-sealed surface needs less attention than the alternatives, so the running cost stays down over the years.
Safety. A sound surface with good texture gives reliable grip and a smooth, predictable ride for drivers and pedestrians alike.
Less noise. Asphalt in particular dampens the noise of tyres, which is a real benefit in built-up areas.
Good looks. A fresh, even, dark surface lifts the appearance of any property, home or business.
Value. Put durability, low upkeep and long life together and the cost over the life of the surface is hard to beat.
Choosing between asphalt and bitumen
The right choice depends on the site. Things worth weighing include:
- Traffic. Heavy or high-traffic areas like roads and car parks usually call for the strength and smoothness of asphalt. Lighter-traffic and rural driveways often suit a spray seal.
- Area and budget. A spray seal covers large areas economically; asphalt costs more but finishes smoother and wears more evenly in tight, high-turning spots.
- Climate. Both are built with bitumen and cope with Queensland conditions when specified correctly for the heat.
- Ground conditions. A flexible seal can suit ground that moves, while asphalt shines over a well-engineered base.
Whichever you choose, the surface only performs if the base is prepared and drained properly and the surface is maintained down the track. That preparation is where a job is won or lost. For the driveway-specific view, see the benefits of a bitumen driveway.
If you are weighing up a surface for your place, get in touch and we will look at the site and give you an honest recommendation with a free written quote.