Book excerpt: Asphalt Surfacings has been written as a reference to the various asphalt course materials and surfacing treatments that are currently available to engineers, enabling them to select the materials and/or treatment that are appropriate for use on specific sites. Appropriate reference is made to the lower structural layers as the properties of all layers interact in producing the required pavement. The current established position in the UK and the emerging developments throughout the UK and Europe are covered. The contributors are all acknowledged authorities on their particular topics selected from every part of the highway engineering industry to achieve a balance between the various approaches required by the different functions they perform.