Calculate bitumen/asphalt quantities, material costs, and project expenses for paving (driveways, roads, parking lots) and roofing applications. Input area dimensions (feet/meters), thickness (inches/mm), select from 5 bitumen grades (Pen 40/50 to MC-30), adjust waste factor (5-25%), and get instant breakdowns: bitumen weight (tons/kg), aggregate weight, mix composition (5-8% bitumen, 92-95% aggregate), coverage rates (sq ft per ton), labor costs ($20-25/m²), equipment costs, and total project budget. Compare paving vs. roofing applications with industry-standard densities (2200-2400 kg/m³) for accurate 2025 material estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much bitumen is needed for asphalt paving projects?
Bitumen content in hot mix asphalt (HMA) for paving typically ranges from **5% by weight** of the total mix.
For a standard 200 sq ft driveway at 2-inch thickness: **Total asphalt mix needed**: ~0.93 tons (volumeM3 × 2400 kg/m³ density). **Bitumen required**: ~0.047 tons (5% of total mix). **Aggregate required**: ~0.88 tons (95% of total mix).
Add 10-15% waste factor for cutting, compaction loss, and edge trimming.
Thickness recommendations: **Residential driveways**: 2-3 inches over 4-6" aggregate base; **Commercial parking**: 3-4 inches over 6-8" base; **Heavy traffic**: 4-6 inches over 8-12" base. **Bitumen grades**: Penetration 60/70 (medium, most common), 40/50 (hard, hot climates), 80/100 (soft, cold climates), Polymer-Modified (high-traffic areas). **Cost breakdown** (per sq ft): Bitumen $0.50-0.80, Aggregate $0.10-0.20, Labor $2-3, Equipment $0.50-0.80, Total: $3.10-4.80/sq ft for professional installation (2025 prices).
How is bitumen used in built-up roofing (BUR) systems?
Built-up roofing uses **8% bitumen by weight** (higher than paving due to waterproofing requirements) in multiple layers.
For a 1,000 sq ft flat roof with 3-layer BUR: **Bitumen per layer**: ~0.18 tons (8% of 2.25 tons total mix at 50mm thickness). **Total bitumen for 3 layers**: ~0.54 tons. **Felt/fabric reinforcement**: 3 layers of fiberglass or polyester mat. **Application method**: Hot-mopped bitumen at 400-450°F (204-232°C) between layers, ensuring proper adhesion and waterproofing. **System types**: **3-ply** (residential, 15-20 year lifespan), **4-ply** (commercial, 20-25 years), **5-ply** (industrial, 25-30 years). **Top coat options**: Gravel ballast (reflects UV, adds fire resistance, ~400 lbs per 100 sq ft), Aluminum coating (reflects 70% of sunlight, extends lifespan 5-10 years), Cap sheet with mineral granules (decorative and protective). **Cost breakdown** (per sq ft): Bitumen $1.20-1.80, Felt layers $0.60-1.00, Labor $2.50-3.50, Top coat $0.50-1.20, Total: $4.80-7.50/sq ft installed.
BUR systems excel in flat/low-slope roofs (0-3 degrees) where membrane continuity is critical for water shedding.
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- Author: SuperCalc Editorial Team
- Reviewed: SuperCalc Editors (clarity & accuracy)
- Last updated: 2026-01-13
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Important Disclaimer
This calculator is for general informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates based on your inputs and standard formulas.