What’s the Difference Between Hot Mix and Cold Patch Asphalt?

For contractors and municipalities, asphalt maintenance is essential to maintaining safe and durable roads and surfaces. Whether repairing potholes or tackling large paving projects, the choice between hot mix and cold patch asphalt can greatly impact the quality and longevity of your work. At KM International, we provide innovative asphalt maintenance equipment like asphalt reclaimers, infrared heaters, and asphalt recyclers, offering solutions that help you work smarter, not harder. Now, let’s dive into the key difference between hot mix asphalt and cold patch asphalt.

Hot Mix Asphalt: Durable and Long-Lasting

Hot mix asphalt (HMA) is widely known for its strength and long-lasting results. This asphalt is heated to a high temperature, typically between 300°F and 350°F, to create a pliable material that can be laid and compacted for a seamless finish. Due to its durability, HMA is often used for high-traffic areas like highways, parking lots, and main roads and considered to be a permanent repair material. In most areas of the country HMA is only available seasonally, typically between March and November.

At KM International, our asphalt hot boxes for sale are specifically designed to keep hot mix asphalt at the ideal temperature for extended periods, allowing contractors to use it efficiently throughout the day. These hot boxes maintain the quality of the asphalt while reducing waste, making them a reliable tool for any job site.

Cold Patch Asphalt: Quick and Convenient Repairs

On the other hand, Cold patch asphalt is a ready-to-use material that can be purchased by the bag or in bulk. Although cold patch asphalt does not have to be heated prior to application, anyone who has shoveled cold patch would concur that an application temperature between 90-100 degrees F makes the material much easier and pliable to work with. It is ideal for temporary repairs or smaller projects, such as filling potholes or patching minor cracks. Since cold patch asphalt is simple to apply and can be used in virtually any weather condition, it’s a go-to option for quick fixes or as a cold weather repair material. In most instances cold patch is viewed as a “temporary repair” that will need to be removed and replaced with hot mix asphalt later on.

KM International offers versatile equipment that can act like cold patch trailers that streamline the process of transporting and applying cold patch asphalt. These hotbox trailers such as our KM 8000T are built for both hot mix and cold path asphalt and allow contractors to address asphalt issues as they arise, minimizing downtime and keeping roadways functional.

Hot Mix Asphalt vs. Cold Patch Asphalt: A Comparison

Why KM International Has the Trusted Solutions in Asphalt Maintenance

At KM International, we are committed to crafting reliable, American-made asphalt maintenance equipment that meets the demands of contractors and municipalities worldwide. All of our products are built in North Branch, Michigan, and undergo rigorous quality testing to deliver unmatched performance. From our asphalt recycler trailers to our crack maintenance equipment and infrared heater repair solutions, every piece of equipment is designed with durability and innovation in mind.

Our team of highly trained sales, service, and support staff ensures that our clients receive the expertise and guidance needed to succeed. With distributors across 32 states and 7 countries, KM International is a partner you can count on to deliver reliable equipment and exceptional service.

Whether you need a mastic melter or an asphalt reclaimer, KM International has the tools to help you get the job done right. Visit our website to explore our full range of products and see how we can support your asphalt maintenance needs or you can check out our distributor list to get started today!