Understanding Quality Asphalt Paving
Understanding Quality Asphalt Paving
You are no doubt aware that virtually every product is available in a range of quality levels. There are cars that never need a major repair and others that spend more time in the shop than on the road. There are shoes that fall apart after one wearing and others that last for years. There are hamburgers that are worth $6 and others that are overpriced at less than $1. Asphalt pavement is no different — some of it is simply of better quality than others. However, you might not know what it takes to produce quality asphalt pavement.
Understanding Quality Asphalt Paving – Attention to Detail
The first thing that a good contractor needs is the ability to notice the smallest details. Every project is different, so the contractor must be able to focus on the tiniest specific on each job. Subtle differences in the surrounding terrains, soil types and traffic patterns can have major impacts on the quality of the completed pavement. The contractor must know how each detail will affect the job and plan accordingly.
A Clean Slate
If the job is to replace existing pavement, the first step will be the demolition and removal of the existing pavement. If necessary, the existing base will be removed or repaired. If the job is to construct new pavement, the ground will need to be cleared, graded and compacted.
The Base Is Built
Asphalt pavement relies on a stable base for flexibility and strength. The base consists of gravel that is installed to the depth appropriate for the planned pavement. If the job required the removal of existing pavement, the base will probably need to be repaired, and it is not uncommon for it to need a total reconstruction. If the base is not prepared correctly, the pavement will fail prematurely.
The Asphalt Work Begins
Asphalt pavement is built by installing multiple layers until the appropriate depth is achieved. Paving contractor crews ensure that the asphalt is at the proper temperature when it is applied. Typically, workers on the ground will use plate compactors and hand rollers to smooth the asphalt. A tack coat is sometimes applied between asphalt layers to prevent slippage between the layers.
The Details Are Addressed
The pavement must have the proper crown or slope to allow water to drain freely. Water poses a risk to the pavement’s integrity should it leak beneath the surface and compromise the base, but standing water also increases the risk of hydroplaning. Transitions between pavements or between a pavement and driveways or parking lots must be smoothed.
Finishing the Pavement
After all the details are completed, the pavement is ready for the final roll. A roller truck will pass over the entire surface to compact and smooth the pavement.
Open for Business
Once the asphalt is thoroughly cooled, it can be opened for pedestrian traffic. Vehicles will typically be barred until the following day, and in some cases, it may be the second day before they can be allowed access.
Why You Should Choose Dirtworks
Not every contractor has the experience or the equipment to install quality pavement, but at Dirtworks, we have both. We are an asphalt contractor and have been paving Cape Cod for more than two decades, delivering exceptional work at competitive prices. We offer a variety of services, including asphalt driveway and commercial paving, site work, asphalt repairs, overlays, milling, road construction, sealcoating, parking lot striping, snow removal and excavation services. If you would like to request a free estimate, you can call us at (508) 240-5541 or submit our convenient online form.
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