Most property owners know asphalt when they see it, but they may not realize how its composition, mix design, and installation process influence performance. A basic understanding of these elements helps you choose a material that supports traffic demands, drainage needs, and long-term durability.

This article explains what asphalt is made of, its production process, and how at JK Meurer we select the mix that supports long-term performance and value for each job.

The Basic Composition of Asphalt

Asphalt is formed by combining several essential components that each play a specific role in overall performance.

Aggregates made from crushed stone, sand, and gravel that provide strength and stability.
A bitumen binder that holds the aggregates together and creates a cohesive surface.
Additives that enhance flexibility, temperature resistance, or strength depending on the intended use.

Why Asphalt Is a Leading Choice for Pavement

The composition of asphalt creates a pavement system that supports both durability and ease of maintenance. Asphalt forms smooth, dependable surfaces that support vehicles and foot traffic, and it allows proper drainage when installed with the correct grade. It also offers long-term value because it can be repaired or resurfaced without replacing the entire structure.

How Asphalt Is Made

The production of asphalt plays a direct role in performance, longevity, and the strength of the final surface.

The manufacturing process follows a sequence that ensures the mix of bonds correctly and remains workable during installation.

Step 1: Mixing the Aggregates and Binder

The production process begins with heating the aggregates, so any moisture evaporates. This step prepares the material for proper bonding. The bitumen binder is introduced in controlled proportions, and the mix is kept at a temperature that allows complete coating of the aggregates. Accurate temperature management supports stability once the pavement cools.

Step 2: Transport and Placement

After mixing, the material is transported to the job site while still hot. Crews place the asphalt, spread it evenly, and compact it with specialized rollers. Attention to compaction is essential because it strengthens the surface and reduces the risk of early cracking or settlement.

Step 3: Cooling and Curing

Asphalt reaches its full strength after it cools. This cooling period forms a surface that is flexible enough to adapt to seasonal temperatures, yet strong enough to support traffic loads. Correct curing time prevents imperfections and ensures long-term performance.

Types of Asphalt and Where They Work Best

Not all asphalt is the same. Mix design changes based on the project’s purpose, expected traffic, environmental needs, and desired lifespan. Choosing the right mix is one of the most important factors in building a surface that performs as expected.

Each type of asphalt offers specific advantages depending on how and where it is used.

Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA)

Common choice for driveways, parking lots, commercial or municipal roads.
Installed at high temperatures to create a dense, smooth surface.
Performs well in a wide range of traffic and climate conditions.

Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA)

Produced at lower temperatures, which reduces emissions and energy use.
Offers easier compaction and longer transport times.
Often selected for large commercial or municipal projects where efficient installation matters.

Cold Mix Asphalt

Cold mix is typically used for small repairs or temporary patches rather than full construction. It works well when temperatures are low or when a permanent fix cannot be installed immediately. Although useful, it is not designed for areas with heavy loads or sustained traffic.

Porous or Permeable Asphalt

Porous asphalt supports water drainage by allowing moisture to pass through the surface. This design helps reduce runoff and supports safer conditions in parks, walking trails, and environmentally sensitive areas. It also helps prevent standing water that can lead to icy conditions.

How JK Meurer Chooses the Right Mix for Every Project

The quality of an asphalt surface depends on selecting the right mix for the specific conditions. At JK Meurer Paving, we follow a consultative approach that evaluates the site, expected use, and long-term goals before any work begins.

This planning process leads to stronger, more reliable results that support the needs of both commercial and residential clients.

Evaluation and Planning Before Every Project

Before choosing a mix, our team evaluates traffic patterns, drainage requirements, and the intended use of the surface. Each project receives a recommendation that aligns performance expectations with structural needs. We also coordinate with clients to balance cost, lifespan, and overall value.

Experience That Delivers Reliable Results

Our decades of experience guide the decisions we make during mixed selection and installation. We understand how different materials respond to real-world conditions across Greater Cincinnati, and that knowledge leads to surfaces that perform consistently and last longer. This experience supports our work on both commercial and residential projects, including driveways, parking lots, and paved paths.

Partner with JK Meurer for Asphalt That Lasts

The strength and longevity of an asphalt surface depend on both the materials used and the expertise behind the installation. Choosing a partner who evaluates your needs, selects the right mix, and applies it with precision helps ensure better performance year after year.

At JK Meurer Paving, we guide clients through every step of the planning and paving process to support dependable results and long-term value.

Choose the right asphalt for your project. Request a free estimate with our team today!