When it comes to asphalt paving, many homeowners and business owners in Colorado Springs may not be fully aware of the steps involved in the process. Whether you’re considering a new asphalt driveway for your home or a parking lot for your business, understanding what to expect can help you make informed decisions and ensure the best results.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the entire asphalt paving process, from preparation to completion, so you know exactly what to anticipate when working with a professional asphalt paving company like Pavco.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Site Assessment
Before any paving begins, the first step is a consultation with your asphalt paving contractor. During this stage, Pavco’s team will assess your property and discuss your specific needs, budget, and desired outcome.
What to Expect:
- A site evaluation to determine drainage, existing pavement condition, and soil stability.
- Measurements to estimate the amount of asphalt material required.
- Discussion about potential obstacles, such as tree roots or underground utilities.
- A written estimate outlining costs, project timeline, and expectations.
This step ensures that there are no surprises later in the process and that all necessary preparations are made to create a long-lasting asphalt surface.
Step 2: Site Preparation and Excavation
Proper site preparation is crucial to ensuring the longevity of your asphalt pavement. Without a solid foundation, asphalt can deteriorate quickly, leading to cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces.
What to Expect:
- Clearing the area – Any debris, grass, or old pavement is removed.
- Excavation (if necessary) – If the project requires grading or removal of an existing surface, excavation will take place to create a stable base.
- Ensuring proper drainage – Pavco will ensure that the ground is properly sloped to prevent water from pooling, which can damage the asphalt over time.
- Laying the sub-base – A strong base layer, often made of crushed stone or gravel, is laid and compacted to provide support for the asphalt.
This phase is essential for ensuring that the final pavement is durable and resistant to Colorado’s fluctuating weather conditions.
Step 3: Applying the Binder Layer
The binder layer is an intermediate layer between the sub-base and the final asphalt surface. It consists of a strong mixture of aggregate and oil that acts as a supportive structure.
What to Expect:
- Placement of the binder layer – A thicker, more durable asphalt mix is applied and compacted.
- Compaction – Heavy rollers are used to compact the binder layer, ensuring that it creates a strong, smooth surface for the top layer.
- Inspection – The contractor will check the compaction and consistency to ensure a solid foundation for the next step.
This layer plays a critical role in the overall strength of the pavement, especially in high-traffic areas like driveways and commercial parking lots.
Step 4: Installing the Surface Asphalt Layer
Once the binder layer is in place, the final asphalt surface is installed. This is the top layer that will be visible and come in direct contact with vehicles and foot traffic.
What to Expect:
- Application of hot asphalt – Fresh hot asphalt is poured and spread evenly across the surface.
- Precision grading – Contractors will ensure that the asphalt is evenly distributed for a smooth and uniform finish.
- Compaction – A heavy roller compacts the surface to eliminate air pockets and strengthen the pavement.
The final asphalt layer is what gives your driveway or parking lot its finished appearance and durability. This step requires expertise to ensure the surface is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Step 5: Final Touches and Curing Process
After the asphalt has been applied, it needs time to set and cure properly. While asphalt can typically handle light traffic soon after installation, it requires additional time to fully harden.
What to Expect:
- Edging and cleanup – Excess asphalt is trimmed, and the edges are smoothed out.
- Curing time – Asphalt typically takes 24-48 hours to cure for foot traffic and about 72 hours for vehicle use. However, it continues to harden over the next several months.
- Striping (if applicable) – For commercial projects, pavement markings, such as parking lines or directional arrows, are painted on after the surface has fully cured.
- Quality check – Pavco will perform a final inspection to ensure everything meets quality standards.
Step 6: Maintenance and Longevity
To maximize the lifespan of your asphalt pavement, proper maintenance is essential. Colorado Springs’ climate, with its freezing temperatures in winter and intense sun in summer, can take a toll on asphalt surfaces.
What to Expect:
- Sealcoating – Applying a protective sealcoat every 2-3 years can extend the life of your pavement and keep it looking fresh.
- Crack filling – Small cracks should be repaired promptly to prevent water infiltration, which can lead to larger issues.
- Regular cleaning – Removing debris, dirt, and oil spills helps prevent deterioration.
- Snow removal considerations – Using a rubber-blade snowplow or shoveling instead of metal blades can prevent surface damage.
By staying proactive with maintenance, you can ensure your asphalt surface remains in top condition for many years to come.
Trust Pavco for Professional Asphalt Paving in Colorado Springs
Choosing the right contractor is just as important as the paving process itself. At Pavco, we specialize in high-quality asphalt paving for homeowners and business owners in Colorado Springs. Our experienced team ensures that every step of the paving process is completed with precision, from site preparation to the final touches.
If you’re considering a new asphalt driveway, parking lot, or repair project, contact Pavco today. We’ll provide a free consultation, expert recommendations, and reliable service to give you a durable and attractive asphalt surface. Call us or request a quote to get started!