Whether you're laying down new pavement or making repairs to an existing one, you need to inspect the site before the paving contractor begins work. This pre-check helps ensure that the job is done right and there are no surprises along the way.
Take a closer look at three key reasons why this inspection is so important.
Determine the Condition of the Subgrade
The subgrade is the soil that lies beneath your pavement. It provides support and stability for your pavement, so it's essential that it be in good condition before you begin paving.
This soil layer needs to be inspected to determine its composition and make sure it is suitable for the job. If this layer contains too much water, or if there are soft spots, this could cause the pavement to eventually settle or even crack.
During the pre-check, a contractor can also check for any signs of erosion or contamination that could affect the strength of the pavement. They might have to first compact the soil to make sure it's strong enough to support a new pavement.
Identify Potential Obstructions
Before paving can begin, any obstructions or obstacles must be identified and removed from the surface where construction will occur. This could include anything from large rocks to tree roots or stumps that need to be cleared away. These obstructions often make it impossible to lay down the pavement properly, so they must be identified and removed before any paving can begin.
In some cases, underground obstacles, such as underground utility lines or drainage systems, may be identified during the pre-check. These need to be marked and avoided during the paving process to avoid any costly and dangerous mistakes.
Always take some time to walk around and carefully observe the area for any potential obstructions that might slow down construction or cause problems later on. You want to inform your contractor of any obstacles beforehand so that they can plan accordingly.
Get Accurate Measurements
Accurate measurements are key when it comes to paving construction—and an inspection can help provide those measurements before work begins. For example, checking for slopes and gradients will help ensure a smooth finish with no dips or bumps once the job is completed. Gradient measurement can also help determine if the pavement will be able to support heavy vehicles or not.
Your contractor can take measurements of the surface area and make sure the pavement design fits nicely into the area. This will help create a professional-looking finish and ensure all safety requirements are met.
Additionally, they have to measure any curves or angles that are part of your project, so they come out exactly as intended during construction. This is a much more involved process than just eyeballing it since the contractor has to get these measurements right from the start.
Contact a local residential paving contractor to learn more.
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