Pavement anatomy
Understand the layers that make up a well-built pavement.
PART 01
Surface Layer
The surface layer is the topmost part of a paved area, providing the visible finish and primary wear layer.
- Cracking due to weather and load stress
- Surface wear from traffic and use
- Fading or discoloration from sun exposure
PART 02
Base Layer
The base layer supports the surface layer, providing stability and load distribution.
- Shifting or settling leading to uneven surfaces
- Water infiltration causing erosion
- Compaction failure under heavy loads
PART 03
Sub-base Layer
The sub-base layer is a secondary support layer that aids in load distribution and drainage.
- Erosion from poor drainage
- Settlement creating uneven surfaces
- Degradation from moisture and ice
PART 04
Subgrade
The subgrade is the soil layer that acts as the foundation for all pavement layers above it.
- Soil instability affecting overall pavement integrity
- Poor drainage leading to water pooling
- Shifting causing pavement cracks
PART 05
Drainage System
The drainage system prevents water accumulation and ensures proper water flow away from paved surfaces.
- Clogging leading to water pooling
- Insufficient drainage capacity during heavy rains
- Erosion affecting surrounding landscaping
PART 06
Edging
Edging defines the boundaries of a paved area and helps maintain the integrity of the surface by holding pavers in place.
- Displacement from ground movement
- Wear from vehicle and foot traffic
- Damage from lawn maintenance equipment
PART 07
Joint Filler
Joint filler maintains gaps between pavers, preventing weed growth and locking pavers in place.
- Washout from rain or cleaning
- Weed growth degrading joints
- Loss of material causing loose pavers
PART 08
Sealcoat
Sealcoat is a protective layer applied to the surface to enhance durability and appearance.
- Wearing away from traffic and weather exposure
- Improper application leading to peeling
- Insufficient reapplication making surfaces vulnerable
01 · Surface Layer
The surface layer is the topmost part of a paved area, providing the visible finish and primary wear layer.
- Cracking due to weather and load stress
- Surface wear from traffic and use
- Fading or discoloration from sun exposure
02 · Base Layer
The base layer supports the surface layer, providing stability and load distribution.
- Shifting or settling leading to uneven surfaces
- Water infiltration causing erosion
- Compaction failure under heavy loads
03 · Sub-base Layer
The sub-base layer is a secondary support layer that aids in load distribution and drainage.
- Erosion from poor drainage
- Settlement creating uneven surfaces
- Degradation from moisture and ice
04 · Subgrade
The subgrade is the soil layer that acts as the foundation for all pavement layers above it.
- Soil instability affecting overall pavement integrity
- Poor drainage leading to water pooling
- Shifting causing pavement cracks
05 · Drainage System
The drainage system prevents water accumulation and ensures proper water flow away from paved surfaces.
- Clogging leading to water pooling
- Insufficient drainage capacity during heavy rains
- Erosion affecting surrounding landscaping
06 · Edging
Edging defines the boundaries of a paved area and helps maintain the integrity of the surface by holding pavers in place.
- Displacement from ground movement
- Wear from vehicle and foot traffic
- Damage from lawn maintenance equipment
07 · Joint Filler
Joint filler maintains gaps between pavers, preventing weed growth and locking pavers in place.
- Washout from rain or cleaning
- Weed growth degrading joints
- Loss of material causing loose pavers
08 · Sealcoat
Sealcoat is a protective layer applied to the surface to enhance durability and appearance.
- Wearing away from traffic and weather exposure
- Improper application leading to peeling
- Insufficient reapplication making surfaces vulnerable