Asphalt pavement on your property gives your property an improved appearance and better usage without dust and mud being a factor. Here are some recommended tips to help you install and keep your asphalt driveway a successful addition to your yard.
Focus on the Right Installation Layers
The stability that you want with a well-built asphalt driveway comes from the proper installation of the pavement's layers. The bottom foundation layer of your asphalt will be the main support to the entire pavement and therefore needs to be set in place with good installation. The gravel is the method by which moisture in the soil will drain down below the asphalt and you won't be stuck with erosion and freeze-thaw damage.
It is recommended to install a six-inch layer of crushed angular gravel as a foundation for the pavement. This crushed layer of rock needs to be compacted in place so it is stable and the rocks interlock with one another. Your asphalt contractor will make sure the foundation is set well for your residential driveway and will also excavate soil from the site beforehand so that the gravel layer does not make the pavement have too high of a profile.
Next, the gravel layer needs to extend six inches past the edges of the asphalt layer, so plan to add in twelve inches of extra width for the gravel based on the width of your finished driveway. If you plan to use your driveway for heavier commercial vehicles, such as tractor-trailer, dump truck, or fifth-wheel parking, you may want to increase the gravel layer thickness a couple of inches.
Keep Up Surface Condition
After your professional asphalt installation, your pavement is going to be low-maintenance and look great immediately. However, be careful that you let the asphalt cool down before you drive or park vehicles on it because this can deform the surface. When the weather is extremely hot, the surface can soften, which can put it at risk of deformation, so just be sure to vary where you park on it. You can also spray it down with the hose to cool it on the hottest days.
Watch out for signs of crack formation, as this can indicate problems with the foundation or surface damage. Arrange to fill the cracks with surface filler and hot mix asphalt repairs, especially in the spring after winter has passed.
To learn more, contact an asphalt paving contractor.