Asphalt and bitumen are both materials used to construct surfaces like roads, pavement, and driveways. These are used because of their sturdiness and their resistance to damage from water, heat and, cold. Moreover, both materials ensure a proper construction project with fewer repairs over the years.

Before you decide which one to opt for, it is essential to know the differences between asphalt and bitumen to determine which one fits your construction requirements. Make no mistake and find professional asphalt paving contractors anywhere in Seaford, Delaware by clicking here. At Surface Solutions, we provide the client with the best possible solutions to their construction issues.

In today’s blog, we will discuss the differences between asphalt and bitumen and some common misunderstandings among people regarding these two elements.

1. Liquid Vs. Solid
Asphalt is considered a solid mixture made by mixing different elements like fine and coarse sand, gravel, and crushed rocks. After that, a liquid mixture in the form of bitumen is mixed with solid asphalt to create a mix, which is later used to construct roads and pavement. Bitumen is often mistaken to be the liquid form of asphalt, whereas it is a binding mixture created by the distillation of crude oil and petroleum.

2. Bitumen Road Or Asphalt Road?

A very common question asked is, “Which of the elements should be prioritized in residential construction projects?” Professionals have answered this in such a way that since asphalt is a mixture of many different components, it is because of that it creates strong and resistant construction projects. So, next time you hear someone say a ‘bitumen driveways,’ it can probably mean different layers of bitumen used to seal the final work.

3. Durability
Contractors are often torn between which element to use, and in such a situation, the durability of each helps decide the case. Asphalt is considered more durable as it has a layer depth of 25-40mm and a life span of over 20 years despite being damaged. On the other hand, bitumen, which is composed of a single element, is not that durable and only has a life span of 5-10 years.

4. Consistency
Bitumen acts as a binding component in asphalt roads, which results in a smoother surface road for drivers to experience with less probability of accidents. Bitumen is a distillation of crude oil and has loose particles and can result in a ruggedly and poorly constructed road.

5. Cost and maintenance
Asphalt roads are costlier in installation but are less time consuming when it comes to maintenance and upkeep. On the other hand, Bitumen is cheap in installation but requires costly repairs from time to time.

If you are still unclear on which element to choose for your construction project in Seaford, Delaware, look no further and contact us by clicking here. At Surface Solutions, we aim to clear all the misunderstandings of our clients and provide them with the best possible residential and commercial paving solutions!

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