The most successful asphalt paving jobs are the ones in which the project manager adequately prepares ahead of time. Taking a few steps to ensure that the ideal plan is in place can greatly affect the overall quality of the project. It can also reduce the likelihood of unnecessary delays and dissatisfied customers. However, knowing where to start and how to make sure that everything has been accounted for can feel overwhelming. If you are an asphalt paver, these 3 steps can help you create the best plan to set up your next job for success.

1) Take a look at the current condition of the asphalt at the designated worksite

This is one of the most important steps when you are forming your plan because you shouldn't proceed any further without understanding what work is actually required. For example, perhaps you have been tasked with paving an asphalt parking lot. You'll need to first determine if there is significant damage to the existing asphalt, such as potholes, large cracks, dull paint, or major stains from oil or grease. Once you identify all of the concerning areas, you'll have a better idea about the scope of your project and what it will entail. You can then design your plan by closely considering the problems that you must remedy in addition to the new paving work that needs to be completed.

2) Decide what paving options will be best for the particular project

After you know the extent of the job, your next step is to decide which method of asphalt paving is right for your project. Depending on the specific goals of the job, there are several possible options that you could use:

• New repaving — The old pavement is removed in its entirety and new asphalt is applied with this option. Badly deteriorated or sunken pavement will benefit from repaving.
• Overlay — This method involves paving a brand-new layer of asphalt over an existing surface. It is an ideal choice if the current asphalt isn't damaged enough to be completely repaved.
• Milling — If the subbase layer of the asphalt is in good condition, the milling process will take off just the top layer of asphalt so that the base underneath can be used instead.

As you select the asphalt paving technique to utilize, be sure to pick the approach that makes the best sense for the overall project and the necessary repairs.

3) Plan for the proper asphalt and materials

Another crucial step for your plan is to select the asphalt mixture that is right for your job. Most paving projects use hot mix asphalt, which is poured at extremely high temperatures (around 350 degrees Fahrenheit). On the other hand, in cold climates, you might choose to work with cold mix asphalt to fill in cracks or holes. Cold mix sticks to surfaces better in winter weather. Additionally, if you are looking for a more environmentally sound option, then porous asphalt works well. Stormwater is naturally filtrated after falling through the microscopic holes in porous asphalt, making it an eco-friendly solution. Don't forget to incorporate into your final plan the cost of materials and the time it will take to procure your chosen asphalt mix.

A great plan that effectively considers scope, method, and materials will ensure that your next asphalt paving job is a success.

For more information, reach out to asphalt paving services in your area.