Asphalt mix specifications look dense, but a handful of lines decide what you actually order: the mix type, aggregate size, binder grade, recycled content, intended use, lift thickness and the testing behind it. Read those seven well and you can order the right material, compare options and catch problems before the first truck loads.
Here is what each line means, using standard FDOT style mixes as examples.
1. Mix type
The first line tells you the family of mix. Common types include hot mix asphalt for general paving, base mixes such as BM-1, Superpave performance mixes, polymer-modified mixes and specialty surfaces such as open-graded friction course (OGFC), stone matrix asphalt (SMA) and porous asphalt.
Mix type sets the general purpose. A base mix is not meant to be a wearing surface, and a friction course is not meant to carry structural load on its own.
2. Gradation and nominal maximum aggregate size
Superpave gradations are named by their nominal maximum aggregate size. SP-9.5 is a 9.5 mm fine surface mix, SP-12.5 is a 12.5 mm surface or structural mix, and SP-19 is a 19 mm structural or base mix.
Larger aggregate generally suits thicker structural lifts, while finer gradations give a tighter, smoother surface. Gradation also limits how thin a lift can be placed, which ties directly to line 6.
3. Binder grade
The PG grade describes the asphalt binder's performance range. Standard grades such as PG 64-22 and PG 67-22 cover a wide range of work. PG 76-22 is polymer-modified, offering improved elasticity, better rut resistance and more stability under Florida heat, which suits high-stress intersections, truck routes and industrial sites.
If the spec names a grade, order that grade. If it does not, ask your engineer or our team which grade fits the traffic.
4. Recycled content
Many specifications state whether reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is allowed, and how much. RAP-blended mixes can be cost efficient and sustainable without sacrificing quality when used within the specification. If the line is silent, ask before assuming.
5. Intended use and traffic level
Good specifications tie the mix to its application. Our mix selection guide is a useful reference:
- Heavily traveled roads: Superpave and polymer-modified mixes
- Residential streets: SP-9.5 or SP-12.5
- Commercial pads and parking: SP-12.5 or SP-19
- HOA and private roads: SP-19 base with SP-9.5 surface
- Pothole and repair work: SP-9.5 fine surface mix
If the traffic on your job is heavier than the spec seems to assume, raise it early.
6. Lift thickness
The spec or typical section gives the compacted thickness for each layer. As a general guide, 1.5 to 2 inches is typical for overlays, and 3 inches or more for new construction and heavy traffic, often in more than one lift. Lift thickness and gradation must work together: a lift that is too thin for its aggregate size is hard to compact.
Lift thickness also drives your order. Plug each layer's length, width and thickness into our asphalt tonnage calculator for a planning estimate, then confirm density and final quantity with the plant.
7. Testing and documentation
Engineered and public projects often list the testing and paperwork required, from sampling during production to temperature checks and records that support the owner. Know these requirements before production starts.
At our plant, quality control is done on site. Our program includes sampling and testing during production, monitoring of mix temperatures and consistency from batch to batch, checks against the specification for each project, and documentation to support contractor, developer and municipal requirements. Trucks are weighed over FDOT Certified scales, so tickets reflect exactly what each truck carries.
Lines people often skip
Beyond the big seven, read for:
- Tack coat requirements between lifts
- Weather and surface limits, such as no placement on standing water
- Friction course requirements on high-speed roads
- Substitution rules for when a listed mix is not available
A quick example
Say a commercial lot specification calls for an SP-19 base course and an SP-12.5 surface course, with a standard PG binder and RAP allowed within limits. That tells you to order two separate mixes, estimate tonnage for each layer at its own thickness, confirm the RAP allowance with the plant, and plan tack coat between the lifts. If the lot has a truck dock, ask the engineer whether a polymer-modified binder makes sense at the heavy-load area.
Turn the spec into an order
Once you have read the spec, ordering is straightforward. Call the plant with the mix type, gradation, binder grade, any RAP limits, tonnage by layer and your pickup window. Placing your order ahead of time helps us schedule production and have your mix hot and ready.
Our standard mixes, gradations and binder grades are listed on the specifications page. These are typical specifications, and exact availability is confirmed per project. If you are unsure how a spec applies to your job, call (772) 494-6077 or reach us through the contact page and our team will help you sort it out.