Asphalt paving consists of sand, crushed rocks, and gravel bound with liquid asphalt. It’s a popular material for parking lot construction due to its durability and ability to withstand heavy traffic. If you are considering constructing an asphalt parking lot, understanding what the process entails is vital. Here is everything you need to know.

The Equipment Needed to Create an Asphalt Paving 

You will need different tools and machinery when constructing an asphalt parking lot . For example, you require a milling machine to grind up the existing surface. This makes it possible to add new layers and not change the elevation.  Here are other machines needed for an asphalt paving project and their uses:

• Sweepers- Removing debris and cleaning your parking lot after milling
• Dump trucks- Moving materials in and out of the site
• Asphalt pavers- Distributing asphalt layers on the parking lot
• Rollers- Compressing each layer into a uniform shape and the required slope

Asphalt Paving Steps

The first step to take when constructing an asphalt paving project is preparation. This can differ depending on the condition of your parking lot. If the space had an existing pavement made of concrete or any other material, you’d need to demolish it. After that, remove the debris so that you can prep the base.

An asphalt parking lot must have proper drainage to prevent water damage. Level the surface with a grader and ensure it has the appropriate slope. Then, prepare the pavement sub-base to provide a stable foundation for the asphalt pavement. This layer will contain gravel, recycled material, and crushed aggregate. It is a frost barrier, protecting your parking lot from freezing and thawing damage.

Once you lay the sub-base, rake it to create an even layer. You may then use a compactor to compress the particles and increase the surface’s load-bearing capacity.

If you will use heavy machinery and trucks on your asphalt parking lot, do a proof rolling test. Drive a loaded dump truck over the surface and look for areas of weakness, then fix them. You may lay the binder layer when you verify the base offers enough support.

After that, install the asphalt while creating butt joints and transitions with other existing parking lots. Complete your asphalt parking lot by compacting the surface and smoothing it out.

Depending on the weather, asphalt pavements need at least a day to cure. Once the surface dries, you can stripe and mark it to improve traffic coordination.

The Cost of Asphalt Paving 

Cold asphalt is relatively cheaper to install than hot asphalt. Still, many contractors don’t recommend it for parking lots if you want your investment to last.

The geographical location of your parking lot will significantly influence the cost. A hilly area requires more labor to grade and achieve the desired elevation. On the other hand, a leveled surface doesn’t need much preparation and material.

Requesting a quote is the best way to accurately determine the cost of an asphalt paving . Reach out to contractors in your area, and they will visit your site for an evaluation.

Professional Asphalt Paving in the Greater Atlanta Area

Hiring a contractor for asphalt paving is the best way to guarantee quality and safety. Georgia Wildcat Paving has the skills and equipment needed for any project size. Contact us today for a quote or inquiry on asphalt paving parking lot.