What to Look for in a Quality Paving Application
At Edwards Paving, we understand that your driveway or parking lot is an investment. With over 60 years of experience, we are committed to providing solutions that not only look great but also last for years to come. This article will feature pictures from paving jobs we have done this month! Here’s what to look for in a quality paving application:
Crisp Exterior Lines
A quality paving job starts with well-defined exterior lines. While the paver puts down a continuous edge, the ‘lute man’ (the person with the wide rake) shapes the hot material to achieve a specific contour. This attention to detail ensures a clean, polished look that enhances your property’s curb appeal.
At Edwards Paving we ensure the outside lines of your driveway are clean and consistent, which significantly enhances the overall appearance of your home.
Smooth Finish
The hallmark of a superior asphalt application is a smooth and uniform surface. This means that any seams, where the paver has made multiple pulls to cover a larger area, are neatly mended together. The roller man plays a crucial role here, as he must avoid leaving roller marks. This is one of the most challenging aspects of the trade and is especially important for custom home projects.
Additionally, the finish can be compromised if the asphalt has cooled too much while sitting in the dump trucks. Cooler asphalt is harder to manipulate and can appear coarser, affecting the overall smoothness of the surface.
Our meticulous compaction techniques eliminate roller marks, resulting in a flawless surface for your driveway.
Proper Base Installation
The longevity of your asphalt driveway is largely determined by the material underneath it. Evaluating the subsoil is critical. For instance, if the excavation reveals clay and water pumping through it, further excavation and additional base stone may be required. Sometimes these areas need to ‘set up’ before paving can be completed to ensure a stable foundation.
Subsoil Savvy
We don’t just pave your driveway; we understand it. During our on-site consultation, we assess the subsoil (whether it’s clay, stone, etc.) to determine the best approach for a long-lasting foundation. This helps us decide if we need to excavate and what sort of base stone and depth are necessary.
Not all driveways require a complete overhaul. At Edwards Paving we can work with existing stone bases.
When necessary, we add a leveling base of up to 2 inches of compacted high-quality crushed stone to ensure a smooth and stable surface before paving.
(the marks are just water from the roller)
Drainage Is Key
A beautiful driveway can quickly become a nightmare without proper drainage. That’s why our experienced team uses long levels to meticulously check the grade throughout the entire project. This ensures proper water flow and prevents issues like sinkholes from forming.
By focusing on these critical aspects, Edwards Paving ensures that your driveway not only looks fantastic but also stands the test of time. Choose us for a paving job that delivers both beauty and durability.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality driveway is about more than just enhancing your home’s appearance—it’s about ensuring long-lasting durability and functionality. At Edwards Paving, our commitment to excellence means we focus on every detail, from crisp exterior lines to a smooth finish and a solid foundation. We understand the importance of proper drainage and base installation, ensuring your driveway stands the test of time.
With over 60 years of experience serving the Shenandoah Valley, trust Edwards Paving for a driveway that not only looks great but also lasts for years to come. If you’re within our 50-mile service radius, call us at (540) 249-4241 or visit our contact page today.
