Rubber particles in a water and polyhydric alcohol solution are added to an asphalt whereby the polyhydric alcohol substantially coats the rubber particles resulting in an easily mixed composition with the mixing temperature being reduced to a range of from about 250° F. to about 310° F. resulting in considerable energy savings. In a similar manner, a filler can be substantially coated by polyvinyl alcohol-water solution and the same blended with an asphalt and mixed at reduced temperatures. Another embodiment relates to the utilization of a polyhydric alcohol that is added to an asphalt and mixed therewith at reduced temperatures.