Asphalt paving is economical for commercial properties, but the total costs for most projects are quite significant. Therefore, if you are planning to install a new parking lot, prepare a comprehensive budget to avoid financial oversights. Here are the critical factors affecting asphalt surface installations that you should consider for effective planning.
Specific Material
The type of asphalt chosen for the paving project determines the purchase price, transportation costs, and equipment hire expenses. The materials are classified as hot and cold mixes. Hot mix asphalt is a flexible paving product also called bitumen or blacktop. As implied, the hot mix is applied at a high temperature.
Pavement made using this asphalt type is tough and durable, and specialty mixes like stone, dense-graded mixes, and open-graded mixes are available for unique performance characteristics. The primary drawback of using hot mix asphalt is the temperature requirement. Additionally, the purchased material must be used immediately after purchase.
A cooled-down hot mix will lose its flexibility, and the ease of construction will decline. This factor could mean higher transportation costs for you because of the urgency that you need to have to get it to your site. Therefore, choose a production plant close to the worksite to reduce haulage expenses and prevent cooling and damage. You will also need specialized equipment for delivering and tamping the paving.
Total Surface Area
The total surface area is an important factor for project budgeting. Therefore, calculate the square footage of your planned pavement or parking lot during the initial planning stage. Keep in mind that a more complex surface shape will cost more than basic pavement for the same total area. Therefore, consider the importance of rounded, curved, and arched surfaces for your property.
Paving Thickness
The thickness of the paving along with the surface area will determine the total volume of asphalt required for the project. Thicker layers of asphalt will demand more material and cost more. However, avoid cost reduction by reducing the thickness of new surfaces. The right thickness will depend on the load requirements for the specific area.
If your commercial property experiences high loads from large trucks or heavy traffic, opt for thicker asphalt pavements. The material will withstand pressure without the risk of cracking. However, avoid overly thick pavements because of the potentially high costs.
Foundation Quality
A deep and stable foundation is essential for long-lasting asphalt pavements. Therefore, avoid skimping on this aspect of the construction to minimize the need for repairs in the future. When calculating the costs of the paving base, think about the excavation needs. Specialized excavators are required for trenching and digging.
However, do not dig an overly deep trench for the base because of the subgrade material costs. The excavated area will need a suitable base like gravel to promote drainage and prevent asphalt shifting. Moreover, if you are working on a large surface, a compactor or tamper is essential for consolidating the foundation.
Legal Considerations
Check the local laws on commercial paving before commissioning asphalt surface installation. Some projects will require special legal permits for construction, and the application or the approval could attract some charges. For example, if your asphalt pavement will join a public road, permits are required to ensure the work meets appropriate standards.
Professional Installation
The final significant expense is the labor for asphalt installation. A good professional installer often will not provide the cheapest services in the locale. Instead, they will ensure value by building a durable asphalt surface at a competitive price. If you are struggling with cost management for your project, consult our team of experienced experts at Pinnacle Paving for quality affordable paving.