Design, materials, suitable construction and prompt maintenance all factor into good road pavement. Some experts estimate that longevity relies solely on those four factors, which can make the difference between pavement lasting for 20 years or crumbling after just one.

While on a construction site, it'll be important for you to manage a variety of tasks including selecting from paving contractors to perform quality pavement work. Some say finding the right contractor is just as critical as the concrete mix itself. Don't rush through the process and make contractor knowledge and experience high priorities.

When dealing with construction site pavement, consider the following tips:

1. Look for construction site paving contractors with a track record of experience in the your kind of project.

2. Ask pavement companies for references of their most recent projects. See if you can visit those sites and check the quality of work yourself.

3. Consider giving asphalt pavement specifications and instructions in writing. That way expectations are clear, accurate and right up front.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Hire a construction site pavement contractor

Ask your local concrete plant manager about reliable subcontractors - he could prove to be a good source. Then, talk to several subcontractors before choosing one you feel comfortable with. Do your research thoroughly before hiring.

I recommend: The Transtec Group offers engineering, research and implementation services on projects from large to small. For paving as well as repair, seek out AIM Tech. Spazzarini Construction Company, Inc. lays pavement for construction site needs in New England and is certified by the CT Dept. of Consumer Protection. Nelson & Sons Construction Co., Inc. in WA provides their own equipment and an onsite superintendant; they also offer detailed budgets in digitized form.

Choose from pavement maintenance companies

Whether it's for a commercial or residential construction site, proper maintenance is key to securing the investment of pavement. Maintenance generally includes edge support, sealing and drainage. Flowing drain inlets and filling in any low spots are a must. Sealing is important for an unchanging appearance and to provide water protection.

I recommend: Browse through the different maintenance products and services offered by Cascade Asphalt Sealing, located in Tacoma, WA. Contact Pavement Maintenance Specialists for a variety of maintenance needs.

Find construction area pavement equipment

Having the right equipment on the job is essential for quality work. It's important to be knowledgeable on pavement equipment so you can inspect the potential subcontractors' gear. Make sure the equipment is in good working order to prevent construction delays.

I recommend: From air lances to pavement crack routers, Construction Complete offers a wide variety of asphalt and pavement equipment. Check out the equipment store at Asphalt Kingdom.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Avoid extreme temperatures when it comes to managing pavement materials. Overheating can cause major damage. Keeping the mix at a consistent temperature helps with compaction.
• •  Concrete and asphalt pavement can both be recycled and made back into new asphalt hot mixes, road base, general filler and drainage, among other items. Experts estimate that if all concrete and asphalt generated on a yearly basis was eventually recycled it would remove dependence on one billion gallons of fuel.