How many times have you been driving and you're stopped by construction that has been going on for what feels like months? In Michigan that is most roads or subdivisions you turn on. Why does it take so long? What is the process for paving? The process is about 7 steps.
Seven Steps to Asphalt Profection
Step 1:Recycle any old Pavement and Clear Debris
The First thing you want to take care of when installing new asphalt is to remove the old, damaged surface. Whether it's asphalt or concrete, start stripping it all away to start with a fresh canvas. This is where the company brings out their equipment like dozers and bobcats. They then remove all debris and make sure the surface is completely clean and clear before continuing.
Step 2:Grade the Slope to Ensure Correct Drainage
Now that the site is clean, the surface has to be prepared for appropriate water drainage. Effective drainage will help prevent your pavement from collapsing prematurely. The surface needs to be graded to let any water run off to the sides. Proper drainage is necessary for any asphalt pavement as without it, major damage can occur including cracks, crumbling and potholes.
Step 3:Prepare Your Sub-Base
The sub-base gives the pavement a stable foundation and is the main support, making this a crucial part of the process. When installing sub-base, it needs to be compacted correctly- if not the surface of your asphalt will suffer. It most likely won't last through many seasons and you'll see cracking and weathering a lot quicker. In the winter the sub-base acts as a frost barrier that reduces damage from repeated freezing and thawing.
Step 4:The Proof Roll
As soon as the sub-base is fully graded and compacted it's time to proof roll. Proof rolling ensures that the underlying matrix is strong enough to support the asphalt and the loads on it. If the base flexes during the rolling process, it may not properly support the pavement. Stronger material will provide the base with the extra support it needs.
Step 5:Adding Your Binding layer
Once the sub-base is laid down, soft areas are repaired, and rolled properly, its time to add the binder layer. The binder layer is made up of a mixture of aggregate and oil which will help support the asphalt and create a stronger, more durable pavement.
Step 6:Installing New Asphalt
After all this time and preparation, its time to install asphalt! Surface asphalt is made up of sand, oil, and small aggregate. The combination of these three materials creates that jet-black asphalt look and when installed correctly it provides a smooth, shiny and attractive finish.
Step 7:Finishing Touches
Depending on the project being done, there's final details to all.This is the final step where roadways are connected to driveways or parking lots for a smooth transition. Striping is now ready to come in to take the blank canvas and turn it into structured spaces. Wait 24 hours to cure and you have yourself a new blacktop! Drive and enjoy your smooth ride.
Bonus Step: Sealcoat… but not yet!
Sealcoating (or asphalt sealing) is very important for extending the useful life of the paved area. The fresh pavement needs time to fully cure before applying any sealing product. We would recommend at least 3 months to a year before sealcoating.
Sounds like a lot of hard work and time. At Titan Pavement, we provide high-quality asphalt paving, asphalt repair, and maintenance to residential, commercial, and industrial clients. If you're in need of some help paving, then get in touch today.