You drive on it, walk across it, and probably don’t give it a second thought—but asphalt is everywhere. If you’ve ever wondered “What is asphalt made of?” you’re not alone.
Asphalt isn’t just one material. It’s a carefully balanced mix that has to be tough enough to survive scorching summers, freezing winters, and heavy traffic. Whether you’re thinking about a driveway, parking lot, or road, the recipe is pretty much the same.
Let’s break it down so you actually know what’s under your tires.
Asphalt Types and How Asphalt Is Made
Asphalt isn’t just one-size-fits-all. When you’re planning an asphalt project—whether it’s a driveway, parking lot, or road—knowing the types of asphalt and how asphalt is made helps you make smarter choices.
The differences affect performance, durability, and even how environmentally friendly the material is.
What Is Asphalt Made Of?
Asphalt is a composite material made primarily from:
- Asphalt binder (also called asphalt cement), usually made from bitumen
- Aggregate materials, like crushed stone, gravel, sand, and fine aggregate
- Sometimes recycled materials, like recycled asphalt pavement (RAP)
This mix creates a flexible material that can handle temperature fluctuations, heavy vehicles, and even airport runways. Asphalt mixtures vary depending on where and how they’ll be used.
The Asphalt Production Process
At an asphalt plant, raw materials go through a specific production process:
- Aggregates like crushed rock, sand, and gravel are dried to remove moisture
- The bitumen is heated until it becomes a liquid-binding agent
- The asphalt binder and aggregates are mixed to form a uniform asphalt pavement mixture
In some cases, recycled asphalt is added to reduce cost and greenhouse gas emissions. The final asphalt mix is transported hot or cold, depending on the type used.
Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA)
Hot mix asphalt pavement is one of the most common types. It’s produced at high temperatures and used in:
- Road construction
- Parking lots
- Running tracks
- Tennis courts
This type cools quickly and forms a smooth surface with strong performance characteristics. It’s ideal for routine maintenance and large-scale paving projects.
If you’re ready to start a new project or need maintenance for an existing asphalt surface, AMP Paving is here to help. Reach out for your FREE quote today or give us a call at 803-237-4563.
Warm Mix Asphalt
Warm mix asphalt is made at lower temperatures, which:
- Uses less fuel during asphalt production
- Reduces fuel consumption and emissions
- Still allows for a strong asphalt surface
Because of its energy efficiency and workability, this is growing in popularity across the asphalt industry.
Cold Mix Asphalt
You’ll often see cold mix asphalt used for repairing potholes or preventative maintenance. It’s created without heating and works well for:
- Filling small cracks
- Quick repairs during temperature extremes
- Locations where traffic must stay open
It’s not as strong as hot or warm mixes, but it’s cost-effective and easy to store.
Asphalt Concrete
Also called asphalt cement concrete, this dense and durable material is designed for paving roads with high traffic volumes. It includes:
- Carefully graded coarse and fine aggregates
- Bitumen with specific bitumen content for extra strength
Asphalt concrete offers long life and resists wear from vehicles traveling daily.
Choosing the Right Asphalt Mixture
The right choice depends on:
- Weather conditions in your area
- The amount of traffic the pavement will handle
- Your budget and timeline
- Whether you want to include recycled materials
Each mix comes in different grades, suited for specific uses like roofing material or crack filler.
Need Help With Your Asphalt Project?
If you’re ready for new asphalt or need advice on the best asphalt pavement mixture for your property, reach out for a free estimate.
The right material makes all the difference—especially when it’s tailored to your location and goals.
AMP Paving: Your Go-To Asphalt Contractor for Columbia, SC
At AMP Paving, we know what it takes to build asphalt pavement that holds up in the heat, rain, and constant wear of everyday life. Whether you’re managing a commercial lot or looking to upgrade your home’s driveway, we offer the experience and equipment to get the job done right.
Asphalt Installation Built to Last
When you’re investing in new asphalt, it needs to do more than just look good. Our team builds pavement from the ground up with proper grading, drainage planning, and high-quality asphalt mixtures.
We handle:
- Full excavation and site prep
- Sub-base construction
- Precise grading for drainage
- Installation of hot mix asphalt (HMA)
- Smooth, compacted surfaces that last
You get a durable pavement structure that resists cracking, shifting, and pooling water.
Asphalt Overlay for a Fresh Surface
If your pavement is showing signs of age but the base is still solid, asphalt overlay may be your best move. We apply a new asphalt surface right over the existing layer.
It’s faster than a full replacement and ideal for:
- Parking lots with surface damage
- Private roads needing a smoother ride
- Refreshing curb appeal without starting from scratch
Repairs and Maintenance That Save You Money
Routine maintenance helps you avoid bigger costs down the road. We provide crack filling, pothole patching, and full resurfacing for commercial and residential asphalt.
Our goal is to extend the life of your pavement by:
- Sealing out water
- Preventing further damage
- Keeping your surface smooth and safe
Serving Columbia and Beyond
From private communities to busy retail parking lots, we understand what pavement needs in Columbia’s hot, humid climate. Our materials are designed to stand up to temperature fluctuations, high traffic, and the wear that comes with daily use.
You get a team that shows up on time, communicates clearly, and works with your schedule—no stress, just solid pavement.
Let’s Talk About Your Asphalt Project
If you’re ready to start a new project or need maintenance for an existing asphalt surface, AMP Paving is here to help. Reach out for your FREE quote today or give us a call at 803-237-4563.