Everything You Need to Know about Porous Asphalt

Porous asphalt allows water to pass through its surface, reducing runoff and significantly reducing the number of pollutants that can enter waterways. It is made up of modified open-graded aggregate combined with highly resistant binder materials in order to create a durable yet permeable pavement surface. This unique composition allows the pavement to hold its structure while still allowing water infiltration into the underlying soil profile. 

Below we explore some of the benefits of porous asphalt and discus which climates are best suited for this material. 

Benefits of Porous Asphalt Pavement

Porous asphalt is a low-maintenance drainage solution for commercial, industrial, and residential properties. As a cost-efficient measure, this form of asphalt helps to relieve the strain on catch basins and storm sewers during significant storms. Below are some benefits of porous asphalt. 

• Porous asphalt is environmentally friendly because during the manufacturing of the material, it requires less energy and produces less emissions.
• Porous asphalt absorbs the majority of water collected on pavement. Less runoff also equates to less money and time spent on installing and maintaining catch basins.
• Porous asphalt can be considered as a natural irrigation for the property, reducing the need and costs associated with property maintenance.
• When properly applied, porous asphalt extends the lifespan of the paved surface. Care and maintenance to the asphalt can prevent cracking, splitting, and damage.
• Unlike regular asphalt surfaces that produce the heat island effect, porous asphalt absorbs ultraviolet rays, cooling the surrounding air.

Why Is Porous Asphalt Not Used in Ontario?

The climate plays a crucial role in deciding whether this type of asphalt is compatible with the area or not. 

Areas with moderate climates are most suitable for porous asphalt; too cold or too hot and the materials used start deteriorating. In warmer zones, even though porous asphalt prevents standing water from forming on roads, it must still hold up against high temperatures which can prove challenging at times. 

Colder climates, like the climate in Ontario, also pose a problem because ice and snow may cause fractures in the surface that can’t be easily repaired. Despite the obvious benefits of porous asphalt, it isn’t suitable for use in Ontario. 

Other Asphalt Alternatives Used in Ontario

In order to suit different applications and weather patterns in the province, there are actually several types of asphalt used commonly in Ontario. 

Hot mix asphalt is a popular choice because it can withstand extreme temperatures very well and does not require any specialized installation equipment. Cold mix asphalt is also available for roads that don’t see frequent traffic or don’t endure intense temperatures. On the other hand, warm mix asphalt is nearly as strong as hot mix, but cools faster requiring less fossil fuel energy intensity, thus being both cost-saving and environmentally friendly.

Contact Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance for Your Paving Needs

Protect the integrity and lifespan of your property with asphalt paving services by Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. Our top-quality porous and regular asphalt products are backed by our restoration, repair, installation, and maintenance services. 

If you need asphalt paving services in the Greater Toronto Area of Mississauga, Brampton, Burlington, Thornhill, Vaughan, and other Ontario municipalities, call us at 416-PAVEMENT.