Asphalt Project Planning Tips
Essential guidance for planning and executing successful asphalt paving projects
Project Timeline & Phases
- ✓Define project scope and requirements
- ✓Obtain necessary permits and approvals
- ✓Survey and measure project area
- ✓Soil testing and engineering assessment
- ✓Budget planning and financing arrangements
- ✓Research and get multiple quotes
- ✓Check licenses, insurance, and references
- ✓Review previous work examples
- ✓Compare detailed proposals
- ✓Negotiate contract terms and timeline
- ✓Mark utilities and underground services
- ✓Remove existing pavement if needed
- ✓Excavate to proper depth
- ✓Install or repair drainage systems
- ✓Prepare and compact base materials
- ✓Hot mix asphalt delivery and placement
- ✓Proper compaction and finishing
- ✓Edge sealing and joint work
- ✓Final grading and cleanup
- ✓Curing and traffic restriction period
Timing Considerations
Best Season
Late spring through early fall for optimal conditions
Temperature above 50°F, dry weather, stable ground conditions
Weather Windows
Plan for 2-3 consecutive dry days minimum
No rain during paving, moderate temperatures, low wind
Scheduling
Book contractors 4-8 weeks in advance
Peak season gets busy, allow flexibility for weather delays
Curing Time
24-48 hours before full vehicle traffic
Light foot traffic after 4-6 hours, avoid sharp turns initially
Budget Planning Tips
Get Multiple Quotes
Compare at least 3 detailed proposals from licensed contractors
Budget for Extras
Add 10-15% contingency for unexpected site conditions
Consider Total Value
Don't choose based on price alone - consider quality and warranty
Financing Options
Explore financing if needed - many contractors offer payment plans
Seasonal Pricing
Off-season work may cost less but weather risks are higher
Bundle Projects
Combine related work (drainage, grading) for potential savings
Questions to Ask Contractors
Are you licensed and insured for asphalt paving?
Can you provide recent local references?
What warranty do you offer on materials and workmanship?
How do you handle weather delays and timeline changes?
What is your cleanup and site restoration process?
Do you handle permit applications and inspections?
What payment schedule do you require?
How do you ensure proper compaction and quality?
✅ Planning Checklist
- • Permits obtained
- • Contractor selected and contracted
- • Utilities marked
- • Weather window confirmed
- • Site access prepared
- • Budget and payment plan set
❌ Common Mistakes
- • Choosing contractor by price alone
- • Not checking references
- • Inadequate site preparation
- • Ignoring drainage requirements
- • Poor timing with weather
- • Insufficient budget planning