You may be familiar with the signs of new asphalt being paved in your neighborhood or when you’re out on the road. The orange cones, signs of construction, blocked roads and the smell of asphalt give away that driveway pavers in Saratoga Springs, NY are at work. However, you might not know all the work and precision that goes into getting an asphalt road paved right, and why it’s so important to have a professional asphalt contractor in Saratoga Springs, NY handle your pavement to make sure the job is done well the first time. If you’re interested in learning about what goes into getting great paving results, read on:
- Temperature precision: It’s important that the screed is heated to just the right temperature before pouring. If it’s not heated enough, it won’t stick to the ground. However, if it’s too hot, the screed plates can warp, eventually creating cracks and fissures. Typically, an asphalt contractor in Saratoga Springs, NY will heat the screed for 20 minutes to get to the ideal temperature.
- Set the width: Setting the width requires additional measurements for driveway pavers in Saratoga Springs, NY. You’ll want to balance the width of the extensions so they are even on both sides. For example, if the entire width of the pavement is four feet, each left and right extension should be two feet.
- Finding the center: You’ll want to make sure to find the exact center of your pavement by centering both tow points. If your machine has a sliding gauge, it should be set to zero. If your machine doesn’t have a gauge, you’ll have to measure the length of the ram, then divide in two to get the measurement for your tow point.
- Slope: Sometimes, pavement needs extension slopes. Make sure the extensions are level with the main screed. This will ensure a perfectly smooth final product.
- Crown adjustments: The main screed crown will also need to be set. You’ll want to add a positive or negative crown with the crown adjustment on the screed.
- Float: Once your measurements and adjustments are made, you need to lower the screed, making sure the screed level is in float. Skipping this step might damage the asphalt.
- Proceed: Move the machine forward slowly, about two or three feet. This will remove slack in the tow points, which will help once the paving process begins.
- Put the screed in null: Null the screed by turning the depth screws until there’s no resistance, which is the null position. You can move back and forth a few times to make sure all the screws are in null.
- End gates: Lower the end gates to make sure the asphalt is keeping the proper width. The front floats on the asphalt prevent spilling from under the end gate.
- Watch sonic sensor: Set the position on the sonic feeders and make sure to watch the sonic sensor and ensure it’s clear of debris. It’s typical for the sensor to get dirty, so wipe it periodically with a dry cloth.
- Pave: Fill the auger chamber with asphalt about halfway. Then set the engine to high idle, and move forward smoothly and steadily to pave.
Asphalt Industries, LLC is your go-to source when you need a residential or commercial asphalt contractor in Saratoga Springs, NY. Call to get a quote today!