Effective and long-lasting concrete paving depends on proper preparation. To ensure your commercial lot is paved in a way that meets your expectations, discuss preparation strategies with your contractor. There are at least six steps a contractor should take before concrete paving begins:
1. State a Start Date
Concrete planning, preparation, and paving require multiple days. Discuss a start date with the concrete contractor so you know when the area will not be accessible. This allows you to make alternative access arrangements for any employees and customers in advance.
2. Define Project Outline
Crew members will delineate the physical area that is being paved or repaired. It is important that the squared edges meet your specifications while also appearing neat and professional.
3. Evaluate Former Surface
Before initiating new paving on a commercial lot, the contractor must evaluate the condition of the old surface. Sometimes it is possible to treat and pave over former concrete, while in other cases asphalt must be broken up and removed.
4. Construct Base Layer
Once the project plan is in place and the former surface is addressed, it is possible to create the base pavement layer. This includes cutting into the existing surface and placing up to 8 inches of project specific crushed base material, such as crushed stone or concrete.
5. Establish a Drainage System
When constructing the drainage system, the finished grade, the placement of forms and the strength of the base must be considered. This is important to prevent future water damages and flooding problems.
6. Reinforce With Steel
The strength and effectiveness of pavement is a combination of proper planning, a good base layer and a grid reinforcing steel. Such steel is important to protect pavement against high levels of tension and weight that the pavement will experience in the future.
Contractors at NVM Paving and Concrete are ready to evaluate a potential project on site or to discuss questions and ideas. Contact us today either by calling 703-423-0471 or sending an email.
