Steps of Removing and Replacing Asphalt

Whether it is on the parking lot, driveway, or road, an asphalt installation is only as good as its foundation. This is why repairs of cracks and potholes can only last so long before showing up again. A permanent solution to these issues and uneven driveways is a total overhaul and replacement. This can be done in these simple steps:

• Demolition and Removal of Old Asphalt: This entails grinding up the existing asphalt using a milling machine or excavator. The debris from the old asphalt is then collected and taken for recycling in asphalt plants. This reduces wastage and makes asphalt driveways more eco-friendly.
  
• Grading and Sloping: This process ensures that water and melting ice can easily drain off the asphalt. In most cases, collected water puddles and ice increase the wear and tear of asphalt driveways. The stone base is graded and paved properly using laser transits and automatic graders, thus ensuring that water runs smoothly across it.
  
• Preparation of the Sub-Base: The stone sub-base is essentially the foundation of the asphalt and preparing it is the most important step in the whole installation process. It has to be compact and stable enough to support the new driveway and withstand harsh weather conditions, including snowy winters and hot summers.
  
• Proof Rolling: This is the ultimate test of a firm and solid sub-base, and it involves driving a heavy dump truck loaded with thousands of pounds over the sub-base. A strong sub-base will withstand the weight while a weak one will flex and crumble. If the sub-base is too soft and the gravel gives in under the weight of the truck, you must conduct repairs on the sub base before proceeding. This can be done through undercutting.
  
• Addition of the Binder: The asphalt binder course is laid once repairs have been made to the sub-base. This asphalt consists of a large aggregate stone for structural stability. It ensures that the new asphalt surface is strong enough to withstand pressure and different weather conditions.
  
• Installation of the New Asphalt: After the binder is properly layered on the strong sub-base, the new surface asphalt is spread on top of it. This is composed of smaller aggregate mixed with sand and oil to give a perfectly smooth finish to the top layer of the newly installed asphalt driveway. If any surrounding structures such as sidewalks and garage floors are joining into the new asphalt, contractors must smoothen the transitional areas to ensure that the entire asphalt surface is seamless and water can drain without any obstructions.

Once this is complete, a smooth drum roller is driven over the asphalt surface to ensure that everything is level and compacted and any jutting stones or rough surfaces are evened out.

Professional Asphalt Installation Services

At Maintain It All, we have professional contractors who follow this process to the tee, making sure that your asphalt driveway looks good and lasts long. This is the secret behind our award-winning services. Contact us for a free quote and let us transform your asphalt pavements and driveway.