MULTIGRADE Bitumen
This is a heated process that reduces the viscosity to aid in the spraying process and rapid setting when cooling. The formula often changes with the job requirements with adding solvents like kerosene. It is primarily used on high-traffic roadworks, allowing vehicles to drive over it within hours of applying. Multigrade or cutback Bitumen is also the best choice to use on medium to steep grades where it sets quickly and holds in place. The odour is quite strong due to its high kerosene content and can persist for an extended period after completion, making it unpleasant around the house. Special equipment is required to store, transport and heat is required to apply this product which adds to the job cost. Due to the above reasons and extra costs, we do not offer hot Bitumen.
CRS 60 Emulsion
Both hot Bitumen and Emulsion start of life identicially. Emulsion is simply pure Bitumen that has been broken down into microscopic droplets and suspended in water with the help of a chemical soap (emulsifier). Emulsion does not require intense heating. Once this has been applied, the water starts to evaporate and disperse within only minutes of spraying and becomes oil-based once again back to it's original form. Water in this product greatly aids in the bonding process as it can penetrate the roadbase often a lot easier than hot Bitumen. Although this is a rapid-set product, it takes longer to cure than hot spray but can still be driven on soon after applying. CRS Emulsion does require special storage tanks in the yard or special certified transport spray trucks and less expensive to purchase, therefore is less costly than Bitumen on every project and has much less odour making it the better option around homes.
Due to the kerosene remaining permanently in the finished product in the multigrade Bitumen, it sometimes can soften on very hot summer days making the surface move or lift (regardless of age) often turning with trailers or trucks on the driveway.
With all these reasons explained this is why we only choose to use CRS 60 Emulsion as the better choice.
Affordable & Maintenance Free
Both cutback Bitumen and CRS Emulsion are best done in two applications. The first step is to spray the Bitumen on the base and then cover it with 14mm or 10mm stone. This stone is then covered with a second coat of Bitumen at twice the rate of the first coat. This second coat is then covered by a 7mm stone to finish. The finish stone needs to be “precoated,” which is blue metal stone with a Bitumen coating. Each layer is compacted separately. Some loose stone will be present after completion but will be minimal. The finished surface has a rough texture similar to exposed aggregate concrete. Bitumen seals are very affordable, maintenance-free, and can be easily recoated in the future if needed.
Bitumen Surfacing Quotes & Enquiries
Contact Southside Bitumen Driveways to discuss your bitumen surfacing project!