Professional Paving Services in Tri-Cities Tennessee

Step 1 - Initial Consultation & Site Assessment: Our project specialists conduct thorough site evaluations, analyzing soil conditions, drainage patterns, existing infrastructure, and usage requirements. We perform comprehensive geotechnical assessments including soil bearing capacity tests (typically 2,000-3,000 PSF in Tennessee clay soils), moisture content analysis (optimal 8-12%), and permeability testing. Our engineers evaluate slope gradients (maximum 8% for ADA compliance), identify underground utilities through 811 marking services, and assess existing pavement conditions using ASTM D6433 Pavement Condition Index standards. We provide detailed recommendations with transparent pricing, typically within 24-48 hours, including material costs ($45-65 per ton for hot mix asphalt), labor rates, and equipment mobilization fees. No hidden charges or surprise fees - our quotes include all aspects from permits to final cleanup.

Step 2 - Engineering & Design: Using advanced surveying equipment including GPS total stations and laser levels, we create precise topographical maps and grading plans. Our designs incorporate proper cross-slopes (1.5-2% for drainage), longitudinal grades (maximum 5% for residential, 8% for commercial), and transition zones between different surface types. We calculate structural requirements based on anticipated traffic loads using AASHTO design methodology - residential driveways typically require 3-4 inches of asphalt over 6-8 inches of compacted aggregate base, while commercial parking lots need 4-6 inches of asphalt over 8-12 inches of base. All designs comply with Tennessee building codes, local municipality requirements, ADA accessibility standards (36-inch minimum width, 1:12 maximum slope for ramps), and stormwater management regulations including proper detention and water quality requirements per Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation guidelines.

Step 3 - Excavation & Base Preparation: Proper base preparation determines 90% of pavement longevity. We begin by excavating to engineered depths - typically 10-12 inches for residential driveways and 14-18 inches for commercial applications. Subgrade soils are evaluated for stability and treated with lime stabilization if plasticity index exceeds 15. We install geotextile fabric (minimum 200 lb grab tensile strength) in areas with poor soils or high water tables. Aggregate base materials meeting TDOT Grade A specifications (maximum 1.5-inch size, less than 8% passing #200 sieve) are placed in 4-inch lifts and compacted to 95% Standard Proctor density using 10-ton vibratory rollers. Nuclear density testing confirms compaction at every 100 linear feet. Proper crown (2% minimum) and edge restraints are established to ensure positive drainage. Base tolerance is maintained at +/- 0.5 inches using laser-guided grading equipment.

Step 4 - Material Delivery & Temperature Control: Hot mix asphalt arrives from TDOT-certified plants at temperatures between 275-325°F, monitored continuously with infrared thermometers. Material temperature is critical - every 25°F drop reduces workability by 50%. We coordinate deliveries to minimize haul time (maximum 90 minutes) and use insulated truck beds with tarps to maintain temperature. Mix designs are verified against job specifications including aggregate gradation, asphalt content (typically 5.5-6.5% by weight), and volumetric properties (4% air voids for surface courses). For concrete work, we ensure proper slump (4-5 inches for driveways), air entrainment (5-7% for freeze-thaw resistance), and water-cement ratios (maximum 0.45 for durability). Ready-mix trucks arrive in sequence to maintain continuous placement, with admixtures adjusted for ambient temperature conditions.

Step 5 - Installation & Compaction: Our experienced crews follow strict installation protocols developed over 50 years of Tennessee paving. Asphalt is placed using track-driven pavers equipped with automatic screed controls maintaining consistent thickness (+/- 0.25 inches) and cross-slope. Material is spread at 25-50 feet per minute depending on thickness, with continuous thermal monitoring to ensure temperature remains above 250°F during initial compaction. Compaction begins immediately with breakdown rolling using 10-12 ton vibratory steel drum rollers (6-8 passes), followed by intermediate rolling with pneumatic tire rollers to seal the surface, and finish rolling with static steel drums for final smoothness. We achieve 92-96% of theoretical maximum density verified by nuclear gauge testing every 250 square yards. Joint construction follows TDOT specifications with proper overlap (1.5 inches minimum) and hot joint temperatures above 190°F.

Step 6 - Quality Control & Testing: Throughout installation, our quality control team performs continuous monitoring and testing. Asphalt core samples are taken at frequencies of one per 500 tons or daily (whichever is less) for laboratory verification of density, thickness, and mix properties. Surface smoothness is checked with 10-foot straightedges (maximum 0.25-inch deviation) and ride quality verified using California Profilograph for large projects. Drainage is confirmed using water testing at all low points and catch basins. For concrete, we perform slump tests every 50 cubic yards, create compression test cylinders (minimum 3 per 100 cubic yards), and verify finishing tolerances using laser levels. All test results are documented and provided to customers for warranty records. Any areas not meeting specifications are immediately corrected at no additional cost.

Step 7 - Final Inspection & Customer Walkthrough: Upon completion, our project manager conducts a comprehensive final inspection with the customer. We review all aspects including surface quality, drainage patterns, edge details, and transitions to existing surfaces. Pavement markings are verified for accuracy and compliance with MUTCD standards (4-6 inch width, 15-mil thickness). We provide detailed maintenance instructions including initial curing period (24-48 hours for light traffic, 5-7 days for full loading), recommended sealcoating schedule (first application after 12-24 months, then every 3-5 years), and seasonal maintenance tips specific to Tennessee weather patterns. Customers receive complete documentation including material certifications, test results, warranty information, and 24/7 emergency contact information. Our standard warranty covers workmanship for one full year with extended material warranties available.