There are many questions about how to lay asphalt, with one of the most prominent ones being: can laying asphalt be easy? Our goal at Basic Construction is to take the struggle out of your asphalt projects, creating a seamless and stress free process for you. Can it be as simple as one, two, three? We say so!
1. Find the right contractor.
What team is the best fit for your project? Look for someone who understands the specifications of your area, including soil conditions. The right fit for you should be a team you feel comfortable with, who listens to your concerns, and has creative solutions mapped out to prepare for any potential challenges.
2. Prepare the area to be paved.
Do you have pre-existing pavement that will need to be removed first or stabilized? If so, the existing pavement section can be removed or pulverized and stabilized to create the base for your new pavement. The area will also need to be graded to construct the proper slope for drainage - we want water to run off to the sides and to the bottom as to not pool in your area.
Once the area is graded, the base soil will need to be compacted and covered with gravel to make the base. The amount of gravel needed will depend on soil conditions - making it even more important that you choose the right contracting company for your project! Once the packed gravel has settled long enough to create a more stable stronger base, you’re ready to move on. If you choose to pulverize and stabilize the existing pavement, you will not need to remove the soil or add any gravel. This method saves time and money.
3. Lay and compact asphalt.
Hot asphalt should be layed with a paving machine to get the best finish for your surface. Once it’s layed, the asphalt can be compacted with a heavy asphalt roller.
What now? Hot asphalt cures quickly, but we recommend waiting a few before driving any vehicles on it to allow the surface to cool. In five to ten years you may wish to consider a sealer or other maintenance - but you have time to think about that!
How to lay asphalt? With the right team, it really can be as easy as one, two, three!
To find out how to estimate asphalt pricing for your next project, contact Basic Construction at (757) 249-3789 or download our FREE ebook for tips to help “Estimate Your Project Right the First Time.” Click below to download the free guide now!