If it’s time to repave your driveway, you may find yourself choosing between black top and asphalt paving. These two products are almost identical. In fact, they’re made from the same materials. But the ratios of each mix differ, giving them different characteristics. To help you determine which option to request for your next paving project, here’s a guide to some of the differences between the two.

What Is Black Top?

Both black top and asphalt are mixes of crushed stone and bitumen, but the former is often used for paved areas with less traffic and weight. This includes driveways, parking lots, playgrounds, and neighborhood roads.

Black top has more crushed stone in the mix than asphalt, which makes it sparkle in the right light. Its flexibility makes it more durable than concrete, and it can be resealed multiple times to repair damage left by inclement weather. Its darker shade retains heat during the winter months, which helps it melt snow and ice quickly to minimize required maintenance.

What Is Asphalt?

Asphalt paving is smooth, so cars are quieter to both drivers and nearby residents. It can withstand more weight and traffic than the previous option, so it is typically used for city roads, highways, and airport runways.

Because it is water-resistant, asphalt paving is also used for linings for pools, cable coatings, and various soundproofing projects. Like black top, asphalt retains heat, keeping roads clearer than other materials when it snows.

Ensure the quality and longevity of your next project with paving from Lyons & Hohl Paving. Since 1989, this locally owned company has been proving paving, repairs, and resurfacing to Lancaster County, PA, and the surrounding areas. Whether you need to remove an unsightly pothole or repair growing cracks, this paving contractor is ready to refresh your black top or asphalt surfaces. Visit their website to learn more about the paving process, or call (717) 355-9219 to request an estimate.