7 Steps for Asphalt Installation

Replacing or installing asphalt paving is not a job for the inexperienced. It requires a lot of labor and access to professional equipment. So, to assist with building a new asphalt driveway or other paved surfaces, our experts on sealcoating in Rio Vista, CA, have created this easy-to-follow guide for asphalt driveway paving.

Step one: Demolishing existing pavement and clearing debris

The first thing you need to do is remove your old, damaged paving. Whether concrete or asphalt, it needs to be removed to build your new structure. This will require the use of specialized machinery like forklifts and bobcats. Many equipment rental companies are available if you do not have access to the machinery you need. Remove any debris and ensure the surface is entirely clean and clear before proceeding to the next step.

Step two: Grading the slope to ensure proper drainage

Once you have a clean surface, you can prepare it for appropriate water drainage. Adequate drainage helps prevent the pavement from experiencing premature collapse. To avoid significant damage like potholes, crumbling, and cracking, you need to grade the surface properly to allow water runoff from your asphalt surface. If you do not have the knowledge or experience to grade the slope independently, reach out to a paving professional for assistance.

Step three: Sub-base preparation

A sub-base is the direct support and stable foundation for your pavement, so preparing it correctly is critical. During winter months, an asphalt sub-base is a barrier to frost that reduces damages caused by the freeze/thaw cycle. Sub-base installation requires proper compaction to keep the structure stable. Your pavement will crack and weather more quickly than expected when not installed correctly.

Step four: Proof rolling

Once your sub-base is graded and compacted adequately, you need to proof roll the area to ensure that the underlying structure is robust enough to support your pavement and any loads placed on it. If the sub-base flexes more than an inch under the roller’s weight, it will not support your pavement correctly. Next, use undercutting to fix any soft areas in your base. This process involves digging two to three feet under the surface to replace the soil with more robust materials to provide the extra support needed for your base.

Step five: Asphalt binder

Once your sub-base is adequately prepared, you must add the binder layer. This layer is made from a mixture of oil and aggregate to support the asphalt and create a durable, robust pavement.

Step six: Asphalt installation

Once your binder is in place, you can install the asphalt. Apply the top layer of surface asphalt to the supporting structure. This asphalt is made of small aggregate, oil, and sand, combined to create ebony pavement with a shiny, smooth, and appealing finish. Once you have laid your asphalt, you can enjoy the view of your new pavement.

Step seven: Connect old and new surfaces

This step involves finishing touches. Your new pavement probably connects to parking lots, roadways, or driveways. You will want to create smooth transitions between your pavement and any connecting structures. The areas where new paving meets other structures are called butt joints. These joints need to be correctly graded to ensure water runoff. Keeping butt joints comfortable and smooth is critical for pedestrians and drivers. When butt joints are correctly installed, you will not notice any difference between old and new surfaces when walking or driving over them.

Once you complete these steps, your new driveway should be appealing and smooth. If you need help with asphalt installation, repairs, or sealcoating in Rio Vista, CA, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free quote!