Performance graded asphalt binder is rated by the pavement temperatures it can handle, written as two numbers such as PG 64-22. The first number is the high pavement temperature in degrees Celsius and the second is the low. Engineered Asphalt Materials lists PG 64-22, PG 67-22 and polymer-modified PG 76-22 for mixes produced at our Vero Beach plant.
Here is how to read a PG grade, what each option is for, and how to choose one for a Treasure Coast job.
How to read a PG grade
The performance grading system came out of the same research that produced Superpave. Instead of grading binder by older lab tests that did not track field performance well, PG grading ties the binder to the climate where it will be used.
- PG means performance grade.
- The first number is the high pavement design temperature, in Celsius, at which the binder resists rutting. A higher number means better resistance to softening in heat.
- The second number is the low pavement design temperature, in Celsius, at which the binder resists thermal cracking. A more negative number means better cold performance.
So PG 64-22 is designed for pavement temperatures from about 64 C down to about minus 22 C. In Florida the low number rarely controls, since freezing pavement is uncommon. The high number is what matters, because summer pavement temperatures on the Treasure Coast run far above air temperature.
The binder grades we list
PG 64-22
A standard performance grade suited to many general paving applications with moderate traffic.
PG 67-22
A standard performance grade with a slightly higher high-temperature rating. Grades in this range are common across Florida and the Southeast, where heat is the main concern.
PG 76-22, polymer-modified
A binder modified with polymer to raise its high-temperature performance and add elasticity. Its traits:
- Improved elasticity: flexes under load and recovers, resisting cracking.
- Superior rut resistance: holds its shape at intersections and under stop-and-go traffic.
- Stronger under Florida heat: stays stable through high pavement temperatures.
It is the choice for high-stress intersections, trucking routes and industrial facilities where pavement takes concentrated loads and heat.
Why traffic changes the choice
Climate sets a baseline grade, but traffic can push the requirement higher. Slow, heavy and stopping traffic loads the pavement longer than free-flowing cars do, which acts like extra heat on the binder. That is why the same road can use a standard grade on the open lanes and a polymer-modified grade at a signalized intersection or a truck entrance.
- Residential streets and light-duty parking: a standard grade is usually enough.
- Commercial drive aisles and busy entrances: consider a higher grade where trucks turn and stop.
- Intersections, truck routes and industrial yards: polymer-modified PG 76-22.
Binder and gradation work together
A binder grade is never ordered alone. It is paired with a Superpave gradation such as SP-9.5, SP-12.5 or SP-19, and the two are designed as one system. A strong stone skeleton and a stiff binder together resist rutting better than either does alone. When you call, give us both the gradation and the binder from your plans. Our specifications page lists the gradations, binders and specialty mixes available, with availability confirmed per project.
Reading the spec on your plans
On engineered and agency work, the binder grade is set by the designer and should be ordered exactly as written. If the plans name a gradation but not a binder, or a private owner has no spec at all, tell us:
- The type of traffic, especially trucks and buses
- Whether vehicles stop, turn or park in the area
- The layer being paved
- Any drainage or heat concerns at the site
Our team can recommend the mix type, grade and tonnage from that information.
Quality control on binder and mix
Binder performance depends on how the mix is produced. Overheating can age binder before it ever reaches the road. Our Gencor plant provides stable temperature control, and our on-site quality program monitors mix temperatures and consistency batch to batch, samples and tests mixes during production, and checks each mix against the project specification. We produce mixes that meet FDOT specifications depending on project requirements.
Order with the right binder
Estimate quantities with our asphalt tonnage calculator, then call or text (772) 494-6077 to confirm the gradation, binder and pickup window. You can also send project details through our contact page. Engineered Asphalt Materials, 500 2nd St SW, Vero Beach, FL 32962. Pickup Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm.