Difference Between Paving and Millings

So what’s the catch?

There must be, right? Unlike most things, when it comes to choosing between paving and milling cost does not reflect quality. 

Here’s what you need to know about paving and milling. 

What Is Paving and Milling?

Paving and milling are both types of road construction techniques using asphalt. Both are some of the most common forms of road making and reconstruction across the globe. This is where the similarities stop. 

Asphalt paving is usually what people are referring to when they say “paving.” It’s simply when the asphalt is laid on a surface using a paver and compacted with a roller. 

Milling is also a type of paving. But, milling includes the process of removing and grinding down old asphalt to make new asphalt.  

Benefits of Using Asphalt Milling 

Since milling involves removing existing layers of asphalt, instead of just laying new material on top of old material it can help remove distressed areas. So, milling can drastically improve the driving experience. 

Milling is also stronger than asphalt paving. In areas that are prone to extreme temperatures, it’s a much more resilient material to use. 

Milling can stand-up to extreme heat and cold in ways regular asphalt can’t. It’s also more porous than asphalt, which makes it better at draining water.  

How Much Do Paving and Milling Cost?

Since the milling process involves recycling asphalt, it’s considerably more cost-effective than traditional asphalt paving. Milling is also cheaper in the long term. 

Milling is low maintenance when compared to traditional asphalt. Regular asphalt cracks and requires regular sealing and resealing every few years. Milling only requires periodic maintenance. 

Better for the Environment 

You might have guessed that milling material is better for the environment than asphalt. Asphalt is a massive environmental polluter. 

When asphalt is heated it releases toxic carbon-based compounds. This means that asphalt emissions harm air quality during the production process and on hot days. 

Using milling for residential and commercial projects can qualify a structure for LEED credits. 

What Does Milling Look Like? 

 Milling material doesn’t have the sleek black finish that fresh asphalt has. But, the more faded look of milling can create a more versatile aesthetic.

Millings look like a hybrid of asphalt and gravel, which gives them a more grounded and rustic appeal. This look also ages much better than traditional asphalt. 

Traditional asphalt looks great when it’s fresh. But after a few years of wear, it starts to look dated and shows signs of needed repair. 

Choosing Millings or Paving for Your Project

When it comes to exploring your paving and milling options, always go with a reputable supplier. Using recycled asphalt can be a complicated process. It takes experience to get the job done right. 

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