Elam Construction About Asphalt

Traveling easy from one point to another is something that we take for granted in the 21st century. Most people don't think much about the product that gets pounded daily by thousands of truck and car wheels. At Elam Contruction, that's our job. Whether we're paving a mountain pass or just getting you to the grocery store, Elam gets you where you're going smoothly and safely. And that means putting down asphalt.

But what is asphalt? Here are some of the basic facts about asphalt and how this product helps you get where you need to go.

WHAT IS ASPHALT?
Asphalt is a combination of stone, sand, or gravel, which is held together and strengthened by asphalt cement, which is a product of crude oil. The asphalt cement is heated, then combined and mixed with the sand, stone or gravel. The asphalt is placed on the site, then quickly compacted with a heavy roller.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A ROAD MADE WITH ASPHALT?

Safe
Economical
Long-lasting
Recyclable
Smooth surface
Saves wear and tear on vehicles.
Enhances vehicle safety
Increases tire contact
Unaffected by salts and chemicals of winter road maintenance.
Retains heat so ice forms slowly and melts quickly
Basically an inert & non-dissolving material; so not harmful in a water environment.


	When a road or parking lot is paved with asphalt, how much of it can be recycled? A. 20% B. 30% C. 60% D. 100% You might be surprised to learn that the answer is D. 100% of an asphalt pavement can be recycled. It can be picked up, and remixed with some fresh materials, then reused in paving. The quality of recycled asphalt pavement is the same or better than new pavement.