5 Myths About Asphalt Pavement

Asphalt makes up the majority of the paved roads in Minnesota. However, there are some myths about asphalt pavement that make people skeptical about using it for their driveways or commercial parking lots. In the last 20+ years, our asphalt pavement company in Greater Minneapolis, MN, has encountered a few of these myths while working jobs.

Here are the five most common.

Myth #1: Asphalt Plants Are a Major Source of Air Pollution

At one point in time, this myth was true. However, it was also true of other types of factories in their early days, including the electrical plants that powered thousands of homes and businesses. After this period of industrialization in American history, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set standards to help companies reduce air pollution.

Today, the asphalt industry follows the EPA’s standards in addition to their own stricter set of standards to reduce the contaminates they release into the air. As a result, the EPA no longer lists asphalt production as a major contributor to air pollution.

Myth #2: Recycled Asphalt Isn’t Durable

Did you know that asphalt is 100% recyclable? This means that asphalt millings and chunks are able to be reused for future paving projects. Contrary to popular belief, recycled asphalt is just as durable as virgin asphalt and significantly decreases how much waste goes into U.S. landfills each year. 

In fact, the Federal Highway Administration reports approximately 75 million tons of recycled asphalt are used each year, making it the most recycled material in the United States. Given proper asphalt maintenance, pavement can last up to 20 years before being recycled and used again.

Myth #3: Asphalt Doesn’t Need a Foundation

Just like concrete, asphalt requires a solid foundation. It’s important to hire our experienced asphalt paving contractor who will be able to properly compact and install asphalt so it will last for years to come. No one wants to keep re-doing their asphalt.

Pavement that is installed over an unstable foundation will quickly show cracks and potholes before needing premature asphalt replacement. This is why foundation is one of the most important parts of the asphalt paving process.

Myth #4: Asphalt Is Expensive

Asphalt is affordable, especially when you use recycled asphalt. According to AsphaltRecycling.com, the average cost of virgin asphalt is $78 per ton while the average cost of recycled asphalt is just $18 per ton. Asphalt recycling benefits asphalt paving companies and their customers because it’s just as durable as virgin asphalt, but costs significantly less.

Myth #5: Asphalt Is Outdated 

Asphalt is used in more than 94% of paved roads in the United States. In fact, we feel confident in saying that if you have stepped outside your home today, you have probably walked on asphalt. Asphalt is used for a variety of purposes that include asphalt residential driveways, asphalt parking lots, and more.

Asphalt isn’t going away anytime soon. It’s such a versatile material. What else is not only affordable, but also 100% recyclable, durable to last decades on its first use, and doesn’t have a major impact on air pollution?

Request a Quote for Asphalt Paving

Searching for a reliable asphalt contractor near Minneapolis, MN? You’ve come to the right place! Request a quote for any of our asphalt paving services to get started on your next project. Call ACT Asphalt Specialities Co. at (651) 484-1696 or fill out our online contact form.

This blog post has been updated.