DIY Asphalt

Paving with Asphalt

• 1

  Coat the unpaved area with a layer of liquid asphalt. Liquid asphalt has not yet been mixed with aggregate and is still in fluid form.

• 2

  Measure the preferred depth of your asphalt. Place a block of wood onto the unpaved surface and use it as a depth guide when pouring your asphalt mix. Use a long 2x4 piece of wood as a screed to run across the top of the poured mixture so it remains at a uniform height. If you are using an automatic paving machine, set the automatic screed by placing it onto your wooden block and adjusting the level accordingly. The machine will then maintain the same height throughout the pouring process. Spread fresh asphalt mix onto the unpaved surface, using your shovel or automatic paving machine.

• 3

  Check that your poured asphalt is all of the same general consistency and makeup. If there are disparities in coloration, material blend or texture, your asphalt may be faulty.

• 4

  Compress the asphalt mixture with a special steamroller or vibrating compactor. You can do this process manually with a tamper. Allow the asphalt to dry and cool completely before touching the surface.

Asphalt Patch

• 5

  Verify that the paved surface is dry and warm and there is no chance of precipitation Clear any vegetation away and remove any debris or oil from the paved surface.

• 6

  Dig out the damaged portions of asphalt with your hand shovel. Dig until you reach the foundation beneath the asphalt. Clear all debris away with a broom.

• 7

  Pour ready-mix asphalt patch into the hole to a depth of at least one inch and to a height of about 1/2 inch over the rest of the asphalt surface.

• 8

  Press the asphalt patch down with your tamper until it is level with the rest of the surface. You can walk or dive on the patch immediately after it is compacted.