Asphalt paving is a versatile product that is suitable for virtually any type of pavement. A properly engineered, well-constructed asphalt pavement can deliver many years of attractive, low-cost use. However, the skills of the contractor play a crucial role in the success of a paving project. Of all the steps involved in the construction of an asphalt pavement, the asphalt paving foundation is one of the most critical.
Why Is the Foundation Critical to the Success of an Asphalt Paving Project?
Birmingham asphalt paving is a flexible material that can give under weight, then rebound once the load passes. However, without a stable, strong foundation, asphalt paving in Birmingham can deform and not return to its original condition. Air pockets can develop beneath the surface, allowing the pavement to subside in spots and form what asphalt paving contractors refer to as birdbaths. A weak foundation also increases the likelihood that cracks, potholes, and alligator cracking will occur.
What Are the Steps Involved With Preparing a Foundation for Asphalt Paving?
The precise steps a Birmingham asphalt paving company will follow to prepare a foundation will depend on several factors. These include the nature of the asphalt paving service, the job site’s specific features, and the project’s engineering design. In general, however, an asphalt paving company takes all or most of the following steps.
1. The site needs to be clear of debris. If there are weeds, bushes, or other obstacles, they must be removed and hauled away.
2. Determine the sufficiency of the subgrade. In simple terms, the subgrade is the underlying ground, the lowest level of the pavement’s foundation. When installing asphalt paving Birmingham contractors typically find that the subgrade is soil, unlike contractors in certain other states who regularly install asphalt paving over bedrock. The soil must be sufficient to allow your Birmingham asphalt paving company to compact it properly. If this is not possible, your contractor may need to amend the soil by removing and replacing some of it.
3. Typically, the next step that Birmingham asphalt paving contractors perform is a preliminary grading of the site. Depending on the type of asphalt paving service and the size of the pavement, this may be the only grading necessary to establish the desired slope.
4. The subbase is the part of the foundation that lies between the subgrade and the base. Asphalt paving contractors do not always need to install a subbase, however. If they do, it is almost always a well-compacted layer of crushed stone or gravel. In some relatively rare designs, the contractor may top the subbase with a binder to promote bonding between the base and the subbase.
5. The base is the final layer of the foundation, and it consists of gravel or another aggregate. The base is compacted, and then a thin layer of asphalt, known as a base coat, is applied over the aggregate.
The Surface Masters can assist you with your Birmingham asphalt paving and pavement maintenance needs. In addition to asphalt paving, we offer asphalt repairs and crack sealing, pavement markings, sealcoating, asphalt milling and reclamation, and concrete and curbing work. We have the experience and resources to provide exceptional results and extraordinary service on every project. We offer free quotes with no strings attached, so request yours today by filling out our online form, emailing Info@TheSurfaceMasters.com, or calling 770-250-6392.
