Common Asphalt Paving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Common Asphalt Paving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them A properly installed asphalt paver can increase curb appeal and reduce driveway maintenance, as asphalt is one of the most durable paving materials available. However, improper installation and maintenance can cause problems. Read on to learn about eight common paving mistakes and how to avoid them to ensure proper installation and maintenance. 1. Poor planning Adequate planning is one of the most important aspects of driveway installation and maintenance. Make sure the weather is good, gather all the materials and equipment ahead of time, and plan to spend enough time on the project to give it the attention it needs. Homeowners who are inexperienced with asphalt paving should always hire reputable contractors to complete their driveway projects. 2. Use of low-quality asphalt There are many types of asphalt available, but not all are created equal. Homeowners who use poor quality asphalt have surprisingly poor results. The solution is to spend the extra money on high-quality asphalt that will create a smooth, blemish-free surface that will withstand wear and tear and weather for years to come. 3. Ignore Slope Control and Auto-Grade systems Tilt control and automatic slope systems are designed to limit operator error. They are configured to ensure that the device will perform as intended given the surrounding conditions. Make sure the operator has high-quality equipment with these systems and knows how to use them. 4. Change in speed Changing the speed when laying the asphalt cover will disturb the uniformity. This can create a roll effect and density issues in the final product. To avoid these problems, make sure the operator knows how to use the speed limiters to ensure a clean and consistent application.

2. 5. Control material head failure Accurate control of the material head is essential for proper asphalt installation. Allowing it to wobble creates waves and bumps that ruin a smooth surface. The easiest way to avoid this problem is to implement technological solutions such as sensors and ensure that operators know how to use them. 6. More Spinning Deep Cranks Inexperienced operators tend to move or adjust the depth handles frequently. This can lead to bumps and waves in the finished road. Avoid the problem by ensuring that operators are properly trained. 7. Improper stopping of the compactor Stopping the compactor immediately leaves a notch that is difficult to level. Instead, operators should stop at a 20% angle to make smoothing the edges easier. Train operators to do this every time to avoid unnecessary complications. 8. Improper use of sealant Asphalt driveways must be closed to prevent contamination. Timing is critical when it comes to driveway sealing, as leaving it too long after asphalt or before rain can lead to premature driveway replacement. When sealing or resealing a newly installed driveway for the first time, homeowners should plan ahead and check the weather three days after application to make sure it's clear. Bottom Line Installing and maintaining asphalt shingles requires a lot of training, experience, and finesse. The only way to get professional results is to hire a professional. Homeowners who insist on doing their own installation and maintenance can follow the advice above to avoid some of the worst mistakes, but no amount of tips and tricks can replace a lack of experience.