Bitumen is a pitch material, which is a black, tacky, and viscous substance that is extracted from crude oil following distillation.
Bitumen is also known as “asphalt.” Because bitumen for driveways is more flexible than other driveway materials, it is less likely to break. In addition, the material and labor costs necessary to build it are cheaper than those of other driveway types. Among the types of bitumen that can be used for this purpose is bitumen 60/70, the price of bitumen 60/70 is more suitable than other penetration bitumen. Bitumen may be put on any material, even a concrete driveway, as long as it has a firm base. Adding Gilsonite to asphalt can also increase many useful properties, including the lifespan of asphalt.
During the summer, bitumen may reach exceptionally high temperatures. Additionally, it does not possess the same durability as a concrete driveway. Also, it doesn’t look as nice as other materials, like stamped concrete, which comes in different colors and patterns. Bitumen driveways need more upkeep than concrete driveways, but concrete driveways are far more durable. They may be painted and stamped to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the house.
A concrete driveway is susceptible to cracking, and the look of the mended fissures is unattractive. Frequently, it is advised to replace the whole driveway. It takes between three and five days for a newly poured concrete driveway to become safe for automobile usage. Elegant driveways are constructed of brick, pavers, or cobblestones.
They are, however, more costly than concrete or asphalt. Gravel is an additional ingredient that is less costly than bitumen, and it is often used with sand. However, as gravel driveways may develop ruts, asphalt or concrete are more durable.
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Bitumen surfacing costs
Bitumen should be at the top of your list of possible driveway or pavement surfaces if you want something that will last and won’t break the bank. Although asphalt pavement construction may be more expensive than other forms of paving, it does not need regular maintenance, just occasional inspections.
Bitumen, on the other hand, is less costly to install, but it requires frequent maintenance, which might result in a rise in cost over time. You will need to resurface the sidewalks, especially if there is a great deal of foot traffic. Bitumen is not a cost-effective long-term solution but rather a short-term one. In the end, the choice between bitumen and asphalt will depend on the laying circumstances, including the budget, location, and planned use of the surface.
It is expected that bitumen will cost about half as much as asphalt, making it a better choice for projects with limited funds. On the other side, asphalt is more costly, but it is more durable and wear-resistant. Bitumen for driveways is a great choice for low- to medium-traffic parking lots. Alternatively, asphalt is the preferred material for roads, highways, and other high-traffic areas.
After looking at the pros and cons of both bitumen and asphalt as paving materials, it should be easy to decide which one to use. However, if you want to make a choice that is absolutely risk-free, you should consult an expert.
Prepared by the PetroNaft Co. research team.