A good commercial paver stays busy managing municipal roads. According to Asphalt Magazine, around 94% of the roads in the United States are asphalt. How does a commercial paver pave municipal roads? Here are four steps to taking a municipal road from unpaved to paved.

Step 1. The Planning Phase

Most people don't realize it, but a lot of planning goes into paving municipal roads. A survey of the area where the road will be laid has to be done. Measurements must be taken, community concerns must be addressed, and approval needs to be given. Once the municipality does its part of the planning, the commercial paver has to get its part done. The commercial paving company submits a quote and has to figure out how much material and manpower the project will take.

Step 2. Road Design

Believe it or not, after all the planning, there is still more work before the process can start. The road needs to be designed and every turn must be considered to ensure they're not too sharp. Road design is a big part of paving municipal roads. Topography, drainage, and other elements have to be considered. The commercial paving company has to have the right experience for the job.

Step 3. Earth Moving and Prep Work

Before paving can begin, the ground beneath the paving has to be prepared. A clear path is needed for the paving process. The “earthwork” requires heavy machinery to flatten the ground so that the paving has a smooth substrate. Other earthworks may be needed to prevent erosion. The commercial paving company typically provides earthwork services.

Step 4. Paving

Asphalt paving is a multi-step process. It requires that a binder is laid first to the substrate to help the asphalt adhere to the road. The asphalt is heated to very high temperatures and evenly spread over the road. Once the asphalt is spread on the road, heavy machinery (a roller) is used to flatten the surface and compact the material. The result is a highly durable surface that motorists can drive on.



Asphalt paving is favored by municipalities because it is long-lasting, durable, and dependable. Don't neglect your paving needs. Call Martinez Road Construction, Inc today to learn more about the services they offer!