The Great Big World of ConcreteThe Great Big World of Concrete


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The Great Big World of Concrete

Think about how many things in the built environment are made from concrete. Even just in your home, you may have a concrete foundation or concrete basement walls. Maybe you have a concrete pad or patio out back, and you probably have a concrete sidewalk leading to and past your home. Then, there's your greater community. There are likely concrete barriers to restrict where people park. Large, concrete buildings serve as schools, court buildings, and other community structures. The list goes on, but the point is, concrete contractors create all sorts of different structures. We're excited to write articles about them here.

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Paving the Way: A Guide to Asphalt Paving

Asphalt is a popular choice for roads, driveways, and parking lots due to its durability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. But have you ever wondered how it's paved? This piece will walk you through the process of asphalt paving, from planning to construction, and give you an idea of what to expect when new roads are paved.

Design and Preparation

Before any asphalt pavement is laid, engineers must carefully evaluate the site's soil composition, traffic volume, and environmental conditions. They will then create a design that outlines the road's thickness, base, and drainage. Afterward, the site is surveyed to ensure proper grades and slopes. Any obstacles in the path, such as trees or rocks, are typically removed, and a subbase composed of crushed stone and asphalt cement is laid.

Asphalt Mix Production

A hot asphalt mix, consisting of a combination of aggregates (e.g., crushed stone) and bitumen (a sticky, black substance), is prepared in a plant. The mix is heated and then transported to the job site in trucks.

Paving Process

Once the mix arrives at the site, it is unloaded into a paver machine that smooths, places, and compacts the asphalt in a single, continuous operation. Workers may need to hand-shovel the mix in hard-to-reach areas. After the mix is compressed, rollers are used to further compact the asphalt, ensuring that it is smooth and devoid of any air pockets.

Finishing Touches

As soon as the asphalt cools, workers can begin applying finishing touches such as edge lines, lane markings, and signage. They may also apply a sealant to protect the pavement from weather and vehicle traffic.

Curing and Maintenance

Finally, the newly paved road is allowed to cure for around seven days. During this period, it must be protected from heavy vehicles and inclement weather. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and patching cracks or potholes, will help ensure the road lasts for many years.

As you can see, a lot goes into the process of paving a new road or driveway. From design and preparation to mixing and finishing, it's a complex undertaking that requires skilled professionals and careful planning. If you're interested in learning more about asphalt paving, or if you're in need of professional paving services yourself, don't hesitate to get in touch with a local asphalt paving contractor today. With the right help, you can enjoy the many benefits of durable, beautiful, and easy-to-maintain asphalt paving for years to come.