Whether you need commercial asphalt paving for a new business or want to refresh the asphalt in your home driveway and entryway, proper installation is key. You can consult an Energy Engineering Firm which emphasizes the importance of following installation best practices to ensure your new asphalt surface lasts for many years. Here are some of their top tips to keep in mind when laying new asphalt.
Preparation is Key
The most important step is preparing the base material before installing asphalt. All vegetation and debris must be removed from the area. The base needs to be compacted and graded to proper elevation and slope for water drainage. An imperfect base can cause issues like cracking or sinking over time. Make sure to hire professionals with the right compacting equipment to properly prepare the base for a long-lasting installation.
Check and Set the Grade
After preparing the base, double-check that the grade is properly sloped at around 1-2% to allow water to drain away from your structure. Standing water is the enemy of asphalt. Make any needed adjustments before installing the asphalt. Take time with this step – a poorly sloped surface can cause premature cracking or puddling that requires repairs. A commercial contractor or your local energy engineering consultants will have the experience and tools to ensure proper grades.
Tack Coat is a Must
After the base is set, apply a light coat of asphalt emulsion tack coat to the entire surface before placing fresh asphalt. This provides a bonding agent between the new asphalt layer and the base below. A tack coat helps prevent new asphalt from slipping or sliding during compaction. It creates a strong, secure bond that improves the surface’s resistance to cracking. Homeowners often overlook this important application, but the extra 15 minutes it requires truly makes a difference in performance.
Compact Thoroughly
Once asphalt is placed, compacting fully binds the mixture and removes air pockets. This leads to strength and durability. Use a lawn roller for smaller areas but a plate compactor for extensive projects like commercial asphalt paving. Go over the surface in three passes at minimum. Don’t rush this vital step. Proper compaction is key to preventing premature cracking or deformation under traffic. Take your time for the best results.
Seal the Asphalt Surface
As a final step, consider sealing new asphalt after 4-6 weeks of curing. The sealer forms a protective layer that reduces raveling and stone pop-outs while improving the surface’s resistance to gas, oil, and antifreeze spills. It enhances asphalt’s appearance as well. The commercial contractors I consulted at one engineering firm always sealed their parking lots and entryways. Homeowners sealing driveway and walkway asphalt see similar benefits from protecting and extending their investment.
Conclusion
Taking time with preparation, grade work, tack coats, temperature control, thorough compaction, and sealing gives asphalt pavement the best chance to last for many years of use without annoying cracks or damage. Shortcuts will only lead to more maintenance costs down the road. Consult professionals as needed, especially for larger commercial asphalt paving projects. With some care up front, you’ll enjoy that fresh blacktop much longer.
