A few weeks back, we discussed the Asphalt Installation Process: a quick overview of each and every step. This week, we are going to take a closer look at a single part of the process: Proper Base and Subgrade Construction. When it comes to paving parking lots, roadways, and other asphalt surfaces, there is perhaps no more important step than the base and subgrade. This is the foundation of your entire asphalt surface. If something goes wrong with the foundation, the entire parking lot – or at least a section of the parking lot – could fail prematurely.
Proper Base and Subgrade Construction for Parking Lots
Strength is essential for a long-lasting paving project. And it all begins with the base and subgrade. In fact, 80-90% of the strength of a road or parking lot is provided by the aggregate base.
- All underground utilities must be protected or relocated.
- Topsoil is removed.
- Analyze drainage concerns, soil quality, and traffic patterns.
- Low-quality soil should be improved upon by adding granular materials: lime, asphalt, etc.
- Remove rocks, debris, and vegetation.
- Grading.
- Subgrade soil must be compacted to an adequate density. Poor compaction can lead to premature pavement failure.
- Next, we calculate the total “base section.” This is the “gravel equivalency” or GE for this area. After the GE is calculated, for flexible pavements, asphalt concrete has a Gr of roughly 2.0 (twice the total strength) for standard use pavements.
- The base is placed directly on top of the subgrade, before being spread and compacted to proper thickness levels.
Pavement design is like baking a cake. If you do not follow the recipe, it could spell disaster!
Parking Lot Construction with PTG Enterprises
PTG Enterprises is a full service commercial pavement contractor. We have been in the paving business for more than a decade and have managed hundreds of pavement projects throughout Baltimore, Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia. When you call PTG Enterprises, you can expect a fair proposal, professionalism, and quality work. Our crews work quickly and professionally.
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.
If you have any questions about Proper Base and Subgrade Construction for Parking Lots, please contact PTG Enterprises today by calling 410-636-8777, or click here today! You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
