A new asphalt road is a step forward in the quality of life and transportation for surrounding areas. New routes lighten traffic on existing roads; offer faster, more direct roads from place to place; and allow for smoother driving. What makes a new road so effective is the care taken at each step of the process, from the first line drawn on a map to the last traffic cone removed. Midsouth Paving in Dothan, Alabama, is proud to be part of this process, opening new travel options for the community.

Road Building Steps

1. Planning

For public roads, the local or state government assess transportation data to determine when, where, and what kind of roads are needed. For private roads, this is the decision of the property owner. This stage results in a rough plan regarding road placement and parameters, as well as funding for the project.

2. Surveying & Designing

Here, the fine details are filled in, as engineers and surveyors on the ground examine the terrain, soil quality, drainage, and the possibility of future development in the area. Armed with this information, they plot the exact course of the road.

3. Earthworks

This is where heavy equipment comes into play, and where the job is often handed to paving contractors like Midsouth Paving. Before any asphalt can be laid, the ground has to be shaped, smoothed, and compacted to provide an even driving surface with a raised center to allow rainwater to run off.

4. Paving

The actual pavement of a road comes in two forms. Asphalt is a mixture of sand, rock, and bitumen, a tarry petroleum product. This mixture is heated, pressed into place, and allowed to cool. Concrete uses cement instead of bitumen, which is more prone to cracking. To prevent cracking, concrete is divided into segments connected by metal baskets and dowels which prevent individual sections from shifting upward.

5. Final Tests

Once the road is paved, it will be examined for smoothness and drainage, and any necessary adjustments will be made. Then the final lane markers will be painted onto the surface. Once the paint dries, the road is ready for use!

A smooth new road can make life simpler for everyone who uses it. Midsouth Paving is pleased to accept private, commercial, and government projects to meet Alabama’s paving needs. Call them today at (334) 712-7500 for an estimate, or contact them online.