Asphalt, more formally known as bituminous concrete, is a popular material for making smooth roads, parking lots, airfields and driveways. Based in Meriden, CT, The L. Suzio York Hill Companies has been supplying the south central Connecticut area with a range of ready-mix concrete products and crushed stone since 1898, including asphalt manufactured from their six ton plant. Today, they'd like to give you a rundown of this versatile and easy-to-repair product.

• General Characteristics: Asphalt is a composite material composed of layers of aggregate minerals and stone. It is named for its binding agent, bitumen, which is a byproduct of petroleum refining. Asphalt is tar-like and sticky when heated, and cools into a dense black tarmac. Old asphalt can occasionally be recycled, especially when combined with strengthening materials.

• Maintenance: Asphalt can last many years, but can be damaged by a variety of environmental conditions. Most frequently extreme temperatures, frost heaves, heavy traffic loads and water can create cracks and potholes. Construction quality is an important factor as well: The better compacted your asphalt is, the better it will perform.

For more information about their selection of concrete, asphalt and crushed stone products, give The L. Suzio York Hill Companies a call at (203) 237-8421 or visit them online for a list of all served locations.