For driveways and parking lot crack filling, a push melter-applicator like the HOTBOX 10 lets one person melt hot crack filler and lay it into cracks while walking. For bigger jobs, roofing, or hot mop pan installation, a stationary 30 gallon kettle like the HOTBOX 30 melts more material at once, and you draw it off to apply.
Quick comparison
| HOTBOX 10 | HOTBOX 30 | |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Push melter-applicator | Stationary kettle |
| Capacity | 10 gallons (3–4 blocks melted) | 30 gallons (6–12 blocks melted) |
| How you apply | Push along the crack at walking pace; a trigger on the handle releases filler into a scraper that smooths it | Draw melted material from the cast-iron drum valve |
| Best for | Driveways, parking lot crack filling, one-person crews | Parking lot repair, roof tar application, hot mop pan installation |
| Fuel | Propane (20 lb tank not included) | Propane |
| Weight | 120 lb | 170 lb |
| Build | 14 gauge steel, double-walled, air-jacketed; ships fully assembled | 14 gauge steel, double-walled, air-jacketed; ships fully assembled |
| Warranty | Lifetime on the melter body, 1 year on parts | Lifetime on the melter body |
When the HOTBOX 10 fits
The HOTBOX 10 is a 10 gallon push-behind machine made in the USA. Load a block of crack filler, light the included torch, and once the filler is fully liquid, push the machine along the crack. Leftover filler can stay in the machine and simply reheats next time; clean it out after about five runs. It suits homeowners, contractors, property managers and municipalities alike, and it's offered with a single or dual torch, or bundled with 6 blocks of filler (HOTBOX10 + 6x Hot Crack Fillers).
When the HOTBOX 30 fits
The HOTBOX 30 is a 30 gallon stationary kettle with a thick triangular agitation bar and a cast-iron drum valve. Choose it when you need more melted material at once, or for roofing tar and hot mop pan work. It's also sold with 6 blocks of crack filler (HOTBOX 30 + 6x Premium Easy-Melt Crack Filler).
See all crack filling equipment.
What both need
- Hot rubberized crack filler: Pavemade EasyMelt, which works in direct-fire and oil-jacketed machines.
- A propane tank. Heat filler to 380–400°F and keep it under 500°F, since prolonged high heat ages the asphalt.
- Gloves, safety glasses and good ventilation when working with hot material.
FAQ
Can I leave crack filler in the HOTBOX 10 after a job?
Yes. You don't need to drain it; the machine reheats the leftover filler on the next run.
How much filler do I need?
About 6 blocks for a standard driveway and 12 for a long driveway or small lot. See How Much Crack Filler Do I Need? or the crack fill calculator.
Related buying guides
- Hot vs. Cold Pour Asphalt Crack Filler: Which Should You Use?
- How Much Crack Filler Do I Need?
- Asphalt Emulsion vs. Gilsonite Driveway Sealer: Which One Fits?
See all Pavemade buying guides.