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Asphalte résidentiel compaction et finition

Asphalt: understanding types, thickness and best practices

Asphalt is widely used for driveways and parking lots. At Paysagement Expert, we carry out asphalt projects suited to each type of site and use. There are several types of asphalt, each playing a specific role in pavement durability.

Choosing the right mix, along with a good base and proper installation, is essential for lasting pavement.

What is asphalt?

Asphalt is a mixture of aggregates (stone and sand) and bitumen. The bitumen acts as a binder to hold the materials together.

The mix composition directly affects:

  • strength
  • durability
  • surface texture

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Types of asphalt mixes

In Québec, the most commonly used types are bituminous mixes (EB). The number that follows (EB10, EB14, EB20) indicates the maximum aggregate size.

EB5

Asphalte EGS 14

EB5 is made with very fine aggregates. It provides a very smooth finish and is mainly used for repairs or specific applications where appearance is a priority.

EB10 and EB10C

EB10 is the most common mix for residential applications. It provides a relatively smooth surface and good durability.

EB10C is used as a surface course. It provides a more uniform and attractive finish.

Typical uses:

  • driveways
  • residential parking areas

EB14

EB14 contains larger aggregates, making it more robust. It is often used as a base course or in areas subject to heavier use.

Uses:

  • pavement base
  • parking areas subject to heavier use
  • light commercial use

EB20

EB20 is mainly used for the pavement structure. It contains coarser aggregates and offers high strength.

Uses:

  • roads
  • commercial parking lots
  • asphalt base course
Asphalte résidentiel et commercial

Structural asphalt mixes (EGS)

In addition to bituminous mixes (EB), there are more structural mixes known as EGS.

These mixes are designed to provide greater load-bearing capacity and are mainly used in base courses.

They contain coarser aggregates and are suited to heavy-load areas such as roads, commercial parking lots and industrial surfaces.

For residential projects, they are generally used as a base beneath the visible layers.

Asphalt types by application

Residential use

Typically used:

  • EB10C as the surface course
  • sometimes EB14 underneath, depending on the project

The goal is to achieve a good balance between appearance and durability.

 

Commercial use and high-traffic areas

Preferred choices:

  • EB14 or EB20 as the base course
  • EB10C as the surface course

This helps support heavier loads and extend the life of the pavement.

Repair

Some mixes are used for repairs:

  • cold-mix asphalt
  • recycled asphalt

They are convenient for quick repairs but offer more limited durability.

Other types of asphalt

Recycled asphalt

More economical, but generally less durable. Used for secondary applications.

Porous asphalt

Allows water to infiltrate through the surface. Used in specific situations.

Modified asphalt

Contains additives that improve flexibility and strength, particularly under changing temperatures.

Recommended thickness

For residential use, asphalt is generally between 2 and 3 inches thick after compaction.

In practice, it is common to install:

  • about 2.5 inches of asphalt before compaction
  • to achieve about 2 inches after compaction

Compaction reduces the thickness, which is normal.

One or two layers of asphalt?

For most residential projects, one properly installed layer is sufficient, provided that:

  • the base is solid
  • compaction is adequate
  • the soil is stable

Two-layer installation is less common in residential projects and is generally used for:

  • parking areas subject to heavier use
  • commercial areas
  • roads or access routes with heavier traffic

These installations include:

  • a base course (EB14 or EB20)
  • a surface course (EB10C)

The importance of the base

As with concrete, it all starts below the surface.

A good base includes:

  • proper excavation
  • 0–3/4-inch crushed stone
  • thorough compaction

A poor base leads to:

  • settlement
  • cracks
  • deformation

Cracks and maintenance

Over time, asphalt can crack or wear down.

Proper maintenance includes:

  • applying sealant
  • repairing cracks

This helps extend the life of the pavement.

Conclusion

There are several types of asphalt, each suited to a specific use.

The right mix, a solid base and proper installation make the difference between lasting pavement and repairs in the near future.

Planning an asphalt project?

An on-site assessment helps determine the right mix for your property, intended use and budget.

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Jean-Yves Durand

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I am a contractor, consultant and digital strategist.

Since 2009, I have been developing my own web platforms in the construction industry. These strategies have generated over $700,000 in actual revenue.

I founded Paysagement Expert in 2015, followed by Travaux Experts as a general contractor. I learned to build on job sites before building in the digital world.

Today, through LeProduweb, I help small and medium-sized businesses integrate artificial intelligence to modernize their marketing, organize their operations and accelerate their growth.

AI that works for entrepreneurs. Not the other way around.

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