One of the core services that is provided at Park Enterprise Construction is asphalt paving. Over the past 30 years, our skilled team has completed countless asphalt paving jobs in the Marion and Columbus Ohio areas.
However, our process has not always looked like it does now. With the advancements in new paving technology and asphalt tools and equipment, our process has become more efficient and precise throughout the years.
One of the major differences in our current asphalt work process and that of 30 years ago is the equipment upgrades. Park Enterprise Construction started with a basic paver, but now has a fleet including specialized equipment, all of which sync with electronics to improve precision and efficiency.
Similarly, our milling process started with just a small bump-grinding skidsteer with a 2 feet mounted unit used only for spot milling. Now, we are able to mill entire parking lots with our machinery. Additionally, our road mill has technology to leverage electronic control grade.
Another major difference is recycling. As technology grows, so does our ability to recycle asphalt and concrete during paving jobs. Some of our cold mix asphalt process are even 100% recyclable.
Before a new lot could be installed, there are a few additional steps that need to be considered prior to work beginning.
For most asphalt resurfacing jobs we perform for our customers, we follow the following process.
Asphalt installation processes all starts with deciding the type and amount of work you need done and then hiring a contractor to perform the work.
It's always a good idea to research online and find a contractor who has a good reputation in your area.
Make sure that the contractor you hire is credible, ethical, experienced, and follows the steps listed below.
Remember: Cheaper almost never means better. It’s important to choose a contractor whose work will be durable and long lasting. It is almost always worth it to pay a little bit more up front for a contractor who will go the extra mile, rather than pay frequently down the line for asphalt repair.
After a bid is accepted, it's time to get to work. Asphalt resurfacing starts with the demolition and removal of the current surface. This involves the use of heavy-duty equipment and other heavy equipment on larger jobs.
The process is noisy and dusty, but an essential step. If you’re a property manager, ask your contractor when they estimate this step will take place. That way, you can notify your residents and tenants ahead of time, and eliminate any calls of complaint.
Before any asphalt can be put down on a new lot, the ground has to be properly graded and the subgrade compact. This step is important to ensure the pavement drains properly.
Following grading, a drum roller is brought in to compact the soil. For new construction jobs, a proof roll test must be completed. This is typically done with a fully loaded dump truck, and tests the integrity of the stone before the lot is laid.
On an existing lot that is being resurfaced, milling takes place instead of the above described procedure. This is done by grinding the surface of the existing lot, removing the remnants, and recycling the material.
The next step before putting down fresh asphalt is laying down crushed stone. Crushed stone helps with drainage and also provides a sturdy base for the asphalt to be placed on.
The aggregate sub-base needs to be compacted. This typically is done by adding water, and with machines and technology to reach the perfect range of compaction for optimum performance.
Following laying crushed stone, some jobs may also include putting down separate courses of asphalt.
Finally, laying the asphalt is the last step. When you sought an estimate ideally, you should have already determined the size of the aggregate in the asphalt and thickness of the asphalt to be put down that will be applied, as every application is different.
Once put down, it should be compacted with a roller (or roller truck on large jobs) to create a smooth, uniform surface. The edges should be formed at a 45 degree angle.
Joints and transitions are also made during this last step so the new surface blends in seamlessly with other surfaces. If the joints are properly aligned and rolled while the material is still hot, the seal will be greater and less at risk of future water damage. If the joints are rolled while cold, the pavement is susceptible to a weak spot and failure.
To accomplish the steps above, we utilize several state of the art pieces of equipment.
These include:
We use heavy equipment such as excavators when necessary for new parking lot installations.
Get durable parking lot construction with our industry-leading equipment, durable paving products, and expert layout that’s best for your specific lot. Over its lifetime, your parking lot will require less expensive repairs, increase your business’s curb appeal, and improve the resale value for your lot.
Our commercial asphalt services include:
Learn more about these services and view past projects here!