Many people prefer asphalt pavement due to its durability and resilience. Asphalt is long-lasting and is able to withstand wear and tear, which is why most people prefer it for paving. Asphalt pavement installation can improve the functionality and aesthetics of any property.
Whether you are starting a new asphalt project or replacing an existing surface, asphalt is ideal for durable, smooth surfaces. The best thing is that it is an easy and quick procedure to install. In this article, we will discuss why people prefer asphalt and the installation process.
Why People Choose Asphalt
Asphalt is a popular material used in modern road and driveway structures. Asphalt is a mixture of several aggregates, like crushed stone, sand, and gravel, along with binders and fillers. It is a durable, flexible, and widely used paving material for roads, airport runways, and parking lots, but also for roofing and waterproofing applications.
Most people choose asphalt because:
- It is a recycled product and can be reused in new projects, reducing waste.
- It is highly durable and flexible to handle temperature changes.
- It is a smooth and quiet driving surface, which enhances driving comfort and reduces tire wear.
- It is a cost-effective option.
- It can be installed quickly.
- It increases the curb appeal and is easy to maintain.
Asphalt Installation Process
Asphalt installation is more than just laying a layer of base material. The process has the following steps; each step is important to ensure its durability.
1. Excavating
The first step is to remove any existing surface. The excavation is done about 6-12 inches, depending on the location and traffic it will have. In this process, all the rough surface is cleared, keeping in view the drainage system to ensure water flow.
2. Grading and Sloping
The next step is to prepare the area where the asphalt has to be applied. For structural integrity and strength of pavement, it is important to grade the area. To ensure proper water flow, the area needs to be sloped after grading.
Standing water can damage the pavement, which is why the grading and sloping process is important. Water runoff direction is assessed, and then sloping is done accordingly.
3. Preparing the Sub-Base
The sub-base is a crucial element because it provides support to the new pavement. This layer guarantees that your asphalt-installed surface will be able to withstand extreme weather conditions and heavy vehicular traffic.
It is the foundation layer that provides load-bearing support for the asphalt pavement. The sub-base material is applied compactly using a roller or plate compactor, which helps in distributing weight, minimizing movement, and preventing cracks caused by soil shifting.
4. Proof Roll and Testing
After the sub-base is applied, the proof roll test is done using heavy trucks to ensure that the base can withstand heavy traffic. If any weak spots are found, repairs are done immediately.
5. Binder and Surface Course
Once the sub-base and repairs are done, binder is added. The binder layer is a mixture of aggregate and oil, making it durable. The binder holds the asphalt and sub-base together.
6. Install the Asphalt Surface
Once all supportive layers are laid, the top layer of fresh asphalt is added. A properly installed asphalt surface provides a smooth ride and a shiny surface.
7. Smooth Out the Surface
Lastly, a roller is rolled over the entire surface to lock everything into place, remove any air pockets, and create a compact finish.
