L - Asphalt surface beginning to show signs of aging which may be accelerated by climatic conditions. Loss is the fine aggregate matrix is noticeable and may be accompanied by fading of the asphalt color. Edges of the coarse aggregates are beginning to be exposed (less than 1 mm or 0.05 inches). Pavement may be relatively new (as new as 6 months old)

M - Loss of fine aggregate matrix is noticeable and edges of coarse aggregate have been exposed up to ¼ width (of the longest side) of the coarse aggregate due to the loss of fine aggregate matrix.

H - Edges of coarse aggregate have been exposed greater than ¼ width (of the longest side) of the coarse aggregate. There is considerable loss of fine aggregate matrix leading to potential or some loss of coarse aggregate.