Do you have a space at your home or business that you want paved? Asphalt paving has many advantages over concrete or dirt driveways and parking lots. It looks good, drains well, and is relatively inexpensive. 

You might be wondering what the process would be like if you decided to hire paving contractors. It's a straightforward system involving planning, removing existing materials, grading, and paving. The entire thing can be done pretty quickly, depending on the size of the area you're getting paved.    

Here are some details about the four steps of the paving process.

1. Planning

Planning is essential when you're getting a driveway or parking lot paved. You want to ensure that you and the contractors are on the same page about the areas getting done so they don't make any mistakes. It's wise to map out the exact borders where you want the paving to take place, so they know how close to the edges they should be going. 

Do you want the contractors to level your driveway before they pave it or dig into a grass field near your parking lot to extend it? You will need to work out every detail during the planning stage because the entire process can be compromised if you don't. Try to think of little details that might confuse the contractors so they're not guessing while working. 

2. Removing Existing Materials

What does the area you're getting paved look like now? Is it grass, dirt, concrete, or old pavement? Before the workers can begin the grading process, they will have to remove whatever material currently exists. 

Some materials are easier to remove, and each will take different amounts of time to complete. For example, if you have pavement already in place that you're replacing, it may take a little while for them to do that, based on the size of the area. 

3. Grading

If the paving contractor tries paving on top of an incorrect surface, it can cause the pavement to start breaking apart prematurely, poor drainage issues, etc. Grading involves ensuring that water drains in the right direction once the pavement gets laid and that there's a strong base below the pavement. 

4. Paving

The final step in the paving process is the paving itself. The contractors will use special tools and equipment to lay down an even pavement layer. It's essential that they use a good mix and that they properly flatten the pavement, so there's a smooth surface.

Reach out to asphalt paving contractors to learn more.