Installing an asphalt pavement requires a set of guidelines that almost every asphalt construction
contractors follow across the country. While may be a classic case of
‘nobody asked for it’, that doesn’t mean this information can’t be handy
for those who might need it for a science project, for a college
homework, for getting into asphalt business or for those who simply want
to know.
So here are the 5 steps that dictate the journey of a new asphalt pavement, from their inception to finished product:
Step 1: Cleaning the Surface
The
first step is cleaning the existing surface on which asphalt has to be
poured on. If the surface is rough, it is completely removed with heavy
machinery to get a clean slate to work on. If removing an existing
asphalt surface, the old asphalt bits are often recycled.
Step 2: Getting the Base Layer Ready
The
second step is to get the bottom layer ready. First, the surface is
graded and suitable slopes for water drainage are provided at critical
points, then materials such as sand and stones are spread out on the
surface to compact it and make it hard and smooth. This base layer is
the one that provides major support to the top layer. Any defects are
inspected and repaired before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Installation of Binders
The
third step is addition of binders. Binders tighten the loose joints of
the base layer and make it strong and durable. Oil is typically added to
the binder aggregate to make it waterproof and smooth.
Step 4: Placing the Main Asphalt and Joints
After
readying everything else, the final task is to spread out fresh asphalt
on the prepared surface. The jet black asphalt surface with fine
spreads make the surface ultra-smooth and attractive. If the pavement is
to be joined to any other road or driveway, butt-joints are constructed
for transitioning the old and new roads without any visible marks.
Step 5: Rolling the Surface
The
final step is running a heavy roller vehicle on the asphalt surface to
even out any rough edges sticking out of asphalt. It compacts the
surface to a fine degree, after which the surface dries down and is
finally ready for use.
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