Whenever construction related topics are discussed, the uses of commercial asphalt paving always have a role in the topic of discussion. This is very true when the discussion focuses on paving. Even the word paving these days is used to describe mostly asphalt.
But the truth is pavement is any material you used to create roads, Parking lots, driveways etc. The most common modern paving methods however are asphalt and concrete. Both asphalt and concrete have a long history in the building industry because of the many ways the materials can be use. However, in regard to paving parking lots and driveways the biggest argument has mainly been about initial cost.
Commercial asphalt paving pavements are made from a mixture of an aggregate of sand and stones with liquid asphalt cement which is a petroleum product. Varying sizes of aggregates are heated, and then mixed, in exact proportions, with asphalt cement that has been liquefied at about 300°F. While the mixture is still hot, it is delivered to your property and placed on a prepared base or subgrade.
Soon after paving, the mixture cools and hardens so that you can drive and park on it right away. A poorly designed commercial asphalt paving will have a very short life span. Such as the commercial asphalt pavement, it must be capable of supporting both the weight and volume of the expected traffic. If the contractor does not design the pavement correctly, untimely cracking, subsidence, potholes and other problems may occur in a period of one year. The design phase includes a mixture of elements that must all function as a part of the entire pavement.
To begin with is the subgrade, it is a vital part of the structural strength of the pavement. It must be properly prepared, which includes contouring it to match the shape of the pavement. The bottom layer must be of the correct depth and must consist of an aggregate of the right size and material. The asphalt mix is also a critical step to check on. It must have the correct thickness and it should be well compacted.
You might not realize the importance of choosing the right mix. For example, finer blends used for the surface course can be more aesthetically appealing, a higher sand content makes the mix more compatible and other mixes are ideal for reducing road noise.
Also, it is very important for all asphalt pavements to drain properly, a proper drainage is essential for a good performance of parking lots. Water can reach the subgrade and become trapped. This can lead to erosion of the foundation supporting the pavement and can cause severe cracking or damage.
A Proper drainage must begin with the subgrade to ensure that it is properly sloped and shaped. The finished pavement must also have the right slope to promote surface drainage. On a serious note, Asphalt must be applied when it is at the proper temperature. If the asphalt is overheated, the mix can be damaged. If it is too cool, it will not spread and compact properly.
Also, the machine which is to be used for compaction must be the correct size for the job and present in sufficient numbers. For example, Commercial asphalt paving jobs require heavier rollers than are needed for residential paving jobs, and on some commercial projects, a single roller is insufficient to ensure quality results. Choose the personnel with the proper skills to do a perfect job.