Paving A Parking Lot Or Driveway With Asphalt
Asphalt paving might seem straightforward, but there is more to it than meets the eye. Understanding the science and engineering behind this essential infrastructure can help property owners make informed choices for their paving needs.
What Are The Steps Involved In Professional Paving?
Professional paving involves site preparation, applying base and binder courses, and compacting surfaces. Site preparation ensures that existing obstructions are removed to create a stable foundation for new pavement. The grading process establishes an even surface that allows proper drainage. Creating the base involves applying crushed aggregate or soil material to the area as a foundation layer. The binder that follows serves as an intermediate layer connecting the base to the surface materials.
Each step of this process must be properly completed. Otherwise, the asphalt pavement will not be as durable as you hoped. This could lead to premature cracking and splitting, making driving over it unpleasant or even dangerous.
Can Porous Pavements Help Mitigate Property Flooding?
Porous pavements have become an innovative solution for managing stormwater runoff in urban areas. They work by allowing water to penetrate through permeable layers into underlying soil or storage reservoirs rather than flowing over impervious surfaces, causing property flooding.
Unfortunately, businesses and homeowners may overlook the benefits of this style of asphalt for their projects. As a result, they may find it much more difficult to effectively manage the large runoff that may occur during periods of intense rainfall. While porous asphalt will not replace a comprehensive drainage system, it can be an effective supplement.
Can You Use Recycled Materials In Asphalt Mixes?
Recycled materials play an increasingly important role in the world of asphalt paving. In particular, reclaimed asphalt pavement, recycled rubber tires, waste glass, and even reclaimed roofing shingles can be integrated into new mixes.
Lower costs and less environmental damage are just two benefits you can enjoy by using recycled asphalt in your project. However, you must verify whether a potential professional paving service can source recycled asphalt for your project.
For some projects, using a combination of recycled and new asphalt may be possible. These projects can lessen the environmental impacts of your project while still providing the full durability of new asphalt.
How Do You Ensure Proper Compaction During Asphalt Paving Operations?
Proper compaction during asphalt paving operations ensures long-lasting durability and structural integrity. Failing to effectively compact the asphalt is one of the common mistakes made when trying to complete a paving project.
A key part of paving is testing the asphalt to ensure it is adequately compacted. Field tests may include density measurements using density gauges or non-destructive methods like ground-penetrating radar.
Reach out to a professional asphalt paving contractor to learn more.