6 Steps To Constructing A Paved Surface
Posted on: 11 May 2022
Many residential and commercial properties require some degree of pavement construction work. If you're preparing to develop an area for use as a parking lot, driveway, or road, you should understand the following 6 steps of the process.
Engineering Study
Not all surfaces start out in the greatest condition for asphalt construction. The contractor will need to verify the ground can hold the new asphalt surface and any vehicles that will go on it. Similarly, they will need to verify there aren't drainage issues that might undermine the construction in the long run. Likewise, they may need to fill in some spots where there are holes. In extreme cases, they may have to remove the existing soil and replace it with more feasible materials.
Clearance
Whatever is in the way has to get out of the way, even if that just means removing grass. The issues could be fairly complex if there are existing concrete structures, such as sidewalks or the remnants of foundations. You also could run into tree roots, even if there aren't any visible stumps. In many instances, you'll have to remove stuff and bring in fill to replace what came out.
Grading
The surface also will need to be graded. This means preparing the soil to present a smooth surface that has just enough of an angle to encourage water to run off it.
Preparing the Base
A key element of pavement construction is installing a base. Installing a base involves putting in materials that will support the surface. Usually, this includes adding an appropriate grade of stone. Some projects will also use concrete. With a good base in place, you can install an asphalt surface.
If there are drainage issues, this is the time to solve them. In some cases, that may involve installing culverts, drain pipes, or drain fields to prevent water from collecting under the surface. Even if you live in an arid region, you should address this issue to prevent problems from occasional storms.
Paving
Congratulations on your project making it this far. The contractor will need to choose a type of asphalt appropriate for your location. For example, you might need a porous mixture if you live in a heavy-rain region to allow precipitation to quickly go away. Some applications and locations may require more textured materials to provide better surface grip.
Transitions
Finally, the surface has to connect with surrounding paved areas like streets and highways. The contractor will contact your local code compliance office to learn what the transition requirements are where you live.
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