How to Sidestep the Most Common 8 Asphalt Paving Mistakes? and solution

Asphalt paving, when done correctly, can be an extremely effective way to improve the overall value of your property and reduce pavement maintenance since asphalt is among the most durable materials you can buy. That said, Asphalt Paving Mistakes can prove to be very costly and time-consuming to fix down the road.

So if you are looking into improving your asphalt paving, make sure you don’t make these common Asphalt Paving Mistakes to avoid any headaches down the road.

Poor Planning

One of the most common asphalt paving mistakes is poor planning. This can include failing to properly assess the area that needs to be paved, not taking weather conditions into account, and not having a clear idea of the finished product. These errors can lead to a poor paving job that must be redone or repaired soon after completion.

Using Low-Quality Asphalt

Another common Asphalt Paving Mistakes made during asphalt paving is using poor quality asphalt. This can lead to several problems, including an uneven surface, potholes, and cracks. Not only will this make your pavement look bad, but it can also lead to serious safety hazards. To avoid this, be sure to use only high-quality asphalt from a reputable supplier.

Changing Speeds

Another usual blunder is changing speeds when laying the pavement. This disrupts the paving’s uniformity and can cause problems like the final product’s washboard effect and density issues. To avoid this, be sure to keep a consistent speed while paving.

Failing to Control the Material Head

Failure to keep the material head in control can result in bad news. The material head is the amount of asphalt discharged from the paver at any time. Too much asphalt can result in an uneven surface, while too little can cause gaps and voids. To avoid this, be sure to have a skilled operator who can adjust the material head as needed.

Over-Turning the Depth Cranks

A major Asphalt Paving Mistakes made during asphalt paving is overturning the depth cranks on the machine. This causes the mix to be too dry and results in a sub-standard finished product. The proper way to set the depth is by checking the bitumen viscosity at 250°F.

Stopping the Compactor Incorrectly

Another common Asphalt Paving Mistakes are stopping the compactor too soon after finishing the last lift. This can cause depressions or low spots in the pavement, which can lead to puddling and eventually cracking. Make sure you follow the recommended compacting time for your specific project to avoid this.

Not using a vibratory plate compactor when working with asphalt is also a mistake. This can create an uneven surface that is more susceptible to cracking and potholes. Vibratory plate compactors help ensure a smooth, level surface by evenly distributing the asphalt mixture.

Improper Application of Sealer

Lastly, improper application of sealer is also a mistake. Applying too much sealer can cause pooling and puddling, which can lead to cracking and damage. Not applying enough sealer can also cause problems, as it will not protect the asphalt from moisture and weather damage. The key is to apply a thin, even layer of sealer with a brush or roller designed for asphalt sealing.

The Bottom Line

Asphalt paving is a tricky process that demands precision and expertise. Even if you have read everything there is to know about asphalt paving, you might still make mistakes. If you want to avoid costly asphalt paving mistakes, you must first be aware of what they are. And if you lack the time, expertise, or resources required for a high-quality asphalt paving job, you should hire a professional asphalt contractor instead.

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Commonwealth Paving, 136 Outerloop, Louisville, Kentucky 40214
Phone: 502-459-7283, Fax: 502-456-2678

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