A Day in the Life of a Paving Crew
- Ryan Johnson
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 6
From Prep to Pavement: What It Really Takes to Build a Driveway
When people picture a new driveway or parking lot, they usually see the finished product: smooth, black, and ready to use. What they don’t see is the coordination, prep work, and skilled labor it takes to get there. At Valley Blacktopping, we run two specialized crews. One for prep and one for paving to ensure every project is done right from the ground up.
7:00 AM — The Day Begins
Both crews start the day at 7:00 AM. The prep crew heads out with skid loaders, dump trucks, and compactors. Meanwhile, the paving crew prepares for whatever work is on the schedule. This could be paving a driveway, overlaying a parking lot, or patching potholes.
Prep Crew: Building a Solid Base
Before any paving can happen, the site needs to be properly prepped. Our prep crew handles:
Tear-Outs: Removing old asphalt or concrete.
Excavation: Digging out soft spots or poor soil.
Base Rock Installation: We use recycled Class 5 rock for its strength and environmental benefits.
Grading & Sloping: Making sure water drains away from buildings.
Compaction: Packing everything tight with rollers and plate tampers.
Once the prep is done, we typically let the driveway sit for a week or two. This allows the base to settle and firm up before paving, helping ensure a longer-lasting finished product.
Paving Crew: Turning Prep Into Pavement
When it’s time to pave, the paving crew gets to work:
Hot Mix Delivery: Coordinating with the asphalt plant for just-in-time delivery.
Laying the Mat: Running the paver to apply a smooth, even surface.
Hand Work: Raking, edging, and detailing tight areas.
Rolling: Compacting the asphalt while it’s still hot to maximize strength and smoothness.
Because timing and temperature are critical, the entire crew moves with precision. Every pass of the roller, every cut-in at the edges, and every seam — it all matters.
Clean-Up and Walkthrough
After paving, we rope off the driveway, clean the site, and walk the customer through care instructions. We explain when to drive on it, what to expect as it cures, and how to keep it in great shape for years to come.
Craftsmanship You Can Count On
At Valley Blacktopping, we believe great paving starts long before the first load of asphalt arrives. Our two-crew system, one focused on prep and the other on paving, allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality results. Whether it’s a driveway in Rosemount or a commercial lot in Eagan, we treat every job like it’s our own.
The Importance of Preparation
Preparation is key to a successful paving project. Without a solid base, the asphalt will not hold up over time. Our team takes pride in ensuring that every step of the prep process is executed flawlessly. We believe that a well-prepared site leads to a durable and long-lasting driveway.
Why Choose Valley Blacktopping?
Choosing the right paving company can be daunting. At Valley Blacktopping, we are family-owned and operated. We do not offer repair services or seal coating for residential customers. Instead, we focus on providing top-notch paving services. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction sets us apart from the competition.
A Little Humor Goes a Long Way
We like to keep things light-hearted around here. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a good dad joke? Why did the asphalt break up with the concrete? Because it found someone smoother!
Conclusion: Get Your Driveway Done Right
In conclusion, building a driveway is more than just pouring asphalt. It requires careful planning, skilled labor, and attention to detail. At Valley Blacktopping, we are dedicated to providing the best paving services possible. If you’re ready to enhance your property with a new driveway, reach out to us today. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Remember, a well-built driveway is not just a surface; it's a foundation for your home. So, let’s get started on your project today!
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