No matter whether you’re building a parking lot for a small property or a loading zone for a major shopping center, commercial asphalt paving projects require subgrade preparation. Subgrade refers to the soil or other materials on which the paving will be laid. While the process varies from location to location, here are some of the basic commonalities to know. 

A Brief Overview of Subgrade Preparation

Assessment

The first part of subgrade preparation involves evaluating the soil to determine what type of work is necessary. Different soils react differently to extreme environmental changes. Clay soil, for example, is much more absorbent than chalky soil, which means it can swell up considerably from rain, snowmelt, or rising water levels. If it isn’t prepared properly to suit the earth beneath, the surface asphalt paving will not be level or smooth.

Process

Once the soil is examined, preparations for paving can begin. If the subgrade is considered poor quality, it can be excavated and replaced with a more appropriate type of fill, like gravel, or stabilized with materials like lime and calcium chloride. Otherwise, it will be compacted. Compaction uses heavy rollers to eliminate pockets of air and squeeze out excess moisture. This ensures that the soil is dense enough to provide structural support for the asphalt paving that will go on top.

Importance

Proper subgrade preparation is key for ensuring longevity and is well worth the investment to prevent excessive repairs or even repaving. Safety is another issue. If the underlying substance isn’t adequately dense or stable, the material underneath could essentially sink under the weight of the pavement and traffic.

If you own or operate a business in Southeast Pennsylvania and need any type of commercial paving, contact Lyons & Hohl Paving. Based in East Earl, this professional team has been a trusted local source for quality asphalt paving for more than 40 years. These PennDOT-certified contractors will help you with projects of any size. Learn more about their services on their website. Call them at (717) 355-9219 for a free estimate.