Asphalt: it’s everywhere, from highways to parking lots and driveways, but many of us take asphalt for granted. When was the last time you stopped and really thought about it? Where does asphalt come from? How is it installed? Well, today is your lucky day. The asphalt experts at PTG Enterprises are going to give you a closer look at the in-depth installation process.
The Asphalt Installation Process
For the sake of this article, we are going to just assume that the construction area has already been prepared. So let’s dive right in…
- After the stone is laid and fine graded it should be covered with the first layer or base course of asphalt to protect the integrity of the sub-base.
- Someone will spray or spot apply tack coat material along any concrete gutter pan or sidewalk reveals.While it may not seem like part of the installation process, one man will be responsible for controlling the movement of trucks. And trust us, this is an important job! It’s crucially important that the trucks stay in order and the next one up is always ready to go. The hotter the asphalt, the easier it is to work with.
- Finally, the asphalt is dumped to the paver. One man is responsible to make sure the joint lines up with the previous paving pull and another is responsible for determining thickness, grade, pitch and fall.
- The ground personnel, known as “Lute Men,” spread / rake high and low spots out of areas that were just paved but need minor adjustments.
- The roller man is responsible for the compaction of the freshly laid asphalt. Plate tampers and hand tampers are used in tight areas where pavers cannot go.
- Your base course asphalt is usually installed at two, three, or four inches and compacted to between 92 to 97% compaction.
- A second base or intermediate course of asphalt is installed IF NEEDED.
- The surface course of asphalt is installed at 1.5, 2.0 or 2.5 inches and compacted to between 92 to 97%.
- The area is left closed to all traffic for 24 hours and allowed to cure and harden.
Every new construction project will have its own set of specific requirements that run hand in hand with the type of property. It is important to have an experienced asphalt contractor that can handle each unique situation.
The asphalt paving experts at PTG Enterprises have managed hundreds of pavement projects throughout Baltimore, Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia. You can expect a fair proposal, professionalism, and quality work.
If you have any questions about Asphalt Installation, please contact PTG Enterprises today by calling 410-636-8777, or click here today! Unlike those other asphalt contractors, we care about you and your business. In fact, when you hire PTG, you’ll work with owner Patrick Gillen from start to finish, from the initial site visit and pre-construction meeting to the final walk-through.
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Tags: Asphalt installation
