An attractive parking lot can help a business put its best foot forward with customers. If yours has extensive cracking, a contractor might recommend laying down new asphalt to restore its appearance. Here’s what to expect from the process.

How Are Parking Lots Paved?

1. Prepare the Site

Before laying down new asphalt, contractors need to remove old pavement. This step smooths out the surface and creates an even base that can support the new lot, reducing the risk of major cracks or imperfections.

Your contractor will start by ripping up old material, removing debris from the site, and grading the land with specialized equipment to ensure proper drainage.

2. Lay the Base

Then, the contractor will add a layer of subbase, which consists of stone or other aggregate materials that allow water to drain properly. The subbase is also a frost barrier that prevents freezing, protecting the foundation of the asphalt from expansion and contraction as the seasons change.

Once the aggregate materials are laid, the professional will compact them to create an even base.

3. Add Asphalt

When these layers are set, the contractor can add the asphalt. They will spread the warm material out over the entire surface.

The layer needs to be compacted with a roller truck to become smooth.

4. Smooth Out the Transitions

Since most parking lots connect to driveways or streets, your contractor will need to smooth out the spots where those features connect.

To do this, they spread asphalt over the seams and grade the surface to eliminate any bumps or uneven transitions between the new and old pavement. From there, the product needs to cure for about three days before you can drive on it.

If you need to install a new parking lot for your business, contact Quality Pavement Group in Arnold, MO. This woman-owned and -operated company works with a range of commercial customers. Their paving contractors provide budget-friendly options and seamless results. Learn more about asphalt installation online, or call (314) 580-8549 to request an estimate.