The life cycle of asphalt can be broken down into several stages, including production, transportation, placement, and maintenance. Understanding these stages is important in ensuring the longevity and quality of Windy City blacktop.

The first stage of the life cycle of asphalt is production. Asphalt is produced by heating and mixing aggregates (such as sand, gravel, and crushed rock) with a binder (usually bitumen). This produces a viscous liquid that can be transported to the construction site. The quality of the asphalt produced depends on the quality of the aggregates and the type and quantity of binder used.

After production, the asphalt is transported to the installation site. This can be done using specialized trucks that are designed to keep the asphalt at a specific temperature during transportation. The temperature is critical because if the asphalt cools too much, it can become too stiff to work with. Transportation is also an opportunity to test the quality of the asphalt and make any necessary adjustments.

Once the asphalt reaches the site, it is placed on the ground in a process called paving. The asphalt is spread out and leveled using heavy equipment such as pavers and rollers. The thickness and compaction of the asphalt are critical in ensuring its longevity and ability to withstand heavy traffic and weather conditions.

After the asphalt has been placed, it requires regular maintenance to ensure its continued performance. Maintenance includes activities such as crack sealing, asphalt repair, sealcoating, and resurfacing / overlay. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of the asphalt and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacement.

Understanding the life cycle of asphalt is critical in ensuring the longevity and quality of your pavement asset. By paying close attention to the production, transportation, placement, and maintenance of asphalt, Windy City Blacktop can ensure that the asphalt surfaces remain safe and reliable for years to come.