Your driveway is usually the first thing people see when they drive up to your house, and having a clean and well-paved driveway can make a huge difference in curb appeal. An asphalt driveway is a solid choice for homeowners due to its affordability and durability, and it looks great too. But what exactly goes into the process of installing an asphalt driveway?
Preparing the Site
The first step is to prepare the site. This is done by clearing the area of any debris or vegetation that may be in the way. The site will be measured and marked for excavation. A skid steer or similar device will then be used to dig down a few inches, removing the grass, roots, and rocks that may be in the way. Once the area is clean, it will be graded to ensure water flows away from the house.
Base Material and Subgrade
With the site excavated and cleared, it's time to lay the base material. A layer of gravel is spread evenly across the entire area and then compacted. This creates a smooth surface for the asphalt to be laid. Once the base is in place, the subgrade is prepared. If the local soil is unstable, a geotextile fabric will be laid, followed by a thick layer of compacted aggregate.
Laying the Asphalt
Now that the base and subgrade are ready, the asphalt can be laid. The asphalt material is heated in a machine called a paver, and it's then distributed across the surface. The asphalt is then levelled out with a screed, which is a tool that smooths and flattens the asphalt as it's laid. Afterwards, a roller is used to ensure the asphalt is evenly packed down and level.
Finishing Touches
Once the asphalt is laid, there are a few finishing touches that need to be completed. The edges need to be trimmed before the asphalt driveway is rolled and compacted once more.
Final Cleanup
After completing the finishing touches, it is time for the final cleanup. Any excess material is removed and hauled away. The new asphalt driveway is swept clean, and the workers remove any debris or rocks that may have fallen during the installation process.
Your Takeaway
Laying a new asphalt driveway may seem like a daunting task, but with this step-by-step guide, you can see what's involved. And as most people do not have the time, skills, equipment or patience to do this themselves, they will usually reach out to specialist contractors instead.
For more information about asphalt driveways, contact a local business.