SP-12.5 asphalt is a Superpave mix with a 12.5 mm nominal maximum aggregate size, used as a surface or structural course on streets, parking lots and commercial pads. Engineered Asphalt Materials lists SP-12.5 among the Superpave gradations produced at our Vero Beach plant, with availability confirmed per project.
Here is what the designation means, where SP-12.5 fits, and what to tell the plant when you order it.
What "SP-12.5" means
SP stands for Superpave, the performance-based mix design system used by FDOT and most state agencies. The number is the nominal maximum aggregate size in millimeters. In plain terms, SP-12.5 is built around stone up to about half an inch, which puts it in the middle of the Superpave family:
- SP-9.5: 9.5 mm, a fine surface mix
- SP-12.5: 12.5 mm, surface or structural
- SP-19: 19 mm, structural or base
A Superpave mix is designed as a system: the aggregate gradation, the binder grade and the compaction level are chosen together to resist rutting and cracking under the expected traffic and climate. On FDOT plans you will often see a traffic level letter next to the gradation. That letter reflects the design traffic, so order the full designation exactly as written.
Where SP-12.5 is used
SP-12.5 is one of the most versatile mixes a plant makes because it can serve as either a wearing surface or a structural layer. Our application guide lists it for:
- Residential streets: SP-9.5 or SP-12.5
- Commercial pads and parking: SP-12.5 or SP-19
Compared with SP-9.5, SP-12.5 has a coarser texture and more stone-on-stone structure, which helps under heavier vehicles and turning traffic. Compared with SP-19, it places in thinner lifts and gives a tighter surface, so it can finish a job instead of sitting under a separate surface course.
Lift thickness
A common rule of thumb is to place a Superpave lift at least three to four times the nominal maximum aggregate size so the stone has room to compact. For SP-12.5 that works out to roughly 1.5 to 2 inches of compacted thickness per lift. Lifts that are too thin tend to tear and lose density, and lifts that are too thick are harder to compact evenly. Always follow the thickness shown on your plans or project specification.
To turn area and thickness into tons, use our asphalt tonnage calculator and confirm the final number with the plant.
Binder pairings
The gradation is only half of the mix. Superpave gradations are paired with a performance-graded binder chosen for loading and climate. Binder options listed on our specifications page include:
- PG 64-22: standard performance grade
- PG 67-22: standard performance grade
- PG 76-22: polymer-modified, for high-stress duty
An SP-12.5 surface at a busy commercial entrance or a truck turning area may call for a polymer-modified binder to resist rutting in Florida heat. A residential street usually does fine with a standard grade. If the binder is not specified, tell us the traffic and we will recommend one.
Placing SP-12.5 in Florida conditions
- Keep it hot. Tarp loads and keep hauls short so the mix reaches the paver at temperature.
- Compact promptly. Density is what gives SP-12.5 its rut and moisture resistance.
- Tack the surface before placing over an existing layer so the new lift bonds.
- Watch the afternoon storms. Do not place on a wet base or in rain.
- Keep traffic off until the mat has cooled, since fresh pavement stays soft longer in summer heat.
Quality control on every load
We monitor and test mixes on site during production, including sampling and testing, mix temperature and batch-to-batch consistency, and checks against the specification required for each project. Documentation is available to support contractor, developer and municipal requirements. We produce mixes that meet FDOT specifications depending on project requirements, and trucks are weighed over FDOT Certified scales.
How to order SP-12.5
- Confirm the full designation and binder on your plans.
- Estimate tonnage from area and compacted thickness.
- Call or text the plant at (772) 494-6077 to confirm availability and book a pickup window.
- Send trucks Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm, first come, first served.
Not sure SP-12.5 is the right choice? Send project details through our contact page and our team will recommend the mix. Engineered Asphalt Materials, 500 2nd St SW, Vero Beach, FL 32962.