We all rely on roads every single day – but have you ever given any thought to how a road is built? Are you in need of one, but have no idea what the process looks like?
It is easy to think that you just clear the space and press the asphalt. But, the truth is, there is a lot more involved than just laying down some asphalt. In fact, it takes a lot of careful planning and assessing before physical labor ever begins.
Whether you are in the market for a new roadway or parking lot – or you are just satisfying a curiosity – here is the step-by-step process for road building.
Step One: The Planning Phase
You absolutely cannot jump into road building without a plan. Building a road is more than making the decision to do so. There are so many different things that need to be decided in order to successfully reach the end product.
To give you a better idea, here are just a few of the many things that go into planning. You will need to:
- Address any permit concerns
- Decide on the material you would like to use
- Review terrain or environmental issues
- Make sure that all utilities are clear for the road to be built
Most importantly, you will want to feel confident in the team you hired to get the job done.
Step Two: The Design Phase
Designing the road is next. A survey of the area will offer insight into the terrain, location, drainage ability, potential traffic (including the type of traffic), environmental impacts, and so on.
This is the time when you look at the current situation and the future. How will this road impact the area, including the residents that live nearby? Is the area set to have major growth in the near future? If so, will the size of the road be able to handle the traffic?
All of this is so important to consider when designing a road. And, it is important to get input from all professionals in the field.
Step Three: Construction Commences
Often referred to as earthwork, there is a lot that needs to be done to the road before the asphalt joins the party. After all, building a solid and stable foundation is of the utmost importance for a road’s longevity.
So what are the steps in creating the foundation? It will vary based on each project, but this should give you a general idea:
- An embankment is created
- The dirt is leveled and heavy machinery is used to create a smooth surface
- Using water, the soil is even more compacted so that it is denser and better equipped to handle the roadway without sinking
- Drains and sewers have to be installed so that drainage water and sewage are properly carried away without disrupting the road
This step in the process is a tedious one and constantly involves checks and inspections before moving on. Any small mishap will have to be addressed before it can be ready to move on to the next step.
Step Four: Paving
It is time for the asphalt! This is the moment everyone has been waiting for as it means that the road is almost ready.
The key is to work with a team that is highly experienced in paving so that you know it will be properly leveled and spread evenly along the foundation. You want the end product to look as good as it is strong and durable.
Step Five: Test for Quality
Last but not least, you never leave a project without checking it for quality. After it has time to set, any last-minute road markings are placed and drainage is tested. If everything checks out, it will be safe to open the roadway for travelers.
Want to Learn More About Road Building?
If you are interested in learning more about road building or how it can enhance your project, Topwest Asphalt LTD offers residential and commercial paving, asphalt grading, parking lot paving, and more.
Contact us today at 1-800-ASPHALT.