Arizona Paving Company Puts Legacy in Every Layer
BY Justin Zupanc
Primavera puts legacy in every asphalt lift, now with electric rollers
From humble beginnings patching potholes to tackling major roadways, Primavera Grading and Paving has steadily grown its business by prioritizing quality, fostering a dedicated team and forging invaluable partnerships.
In the competitive world of asphalt paving, a company’s reputation is its most valuable asset. For Oscar Estrada, CEO of Primavera Grading and Paving, this truth resonates deeply, echoing a sentiment once shared by legendary investor Warren Buffett: “We can afford to lose money—even a lot of money. But we can’t afford to lose reputation—even a shred of reputation.”
It’s this unwavering commitment to quality and integrity that has propelled Primavera from a small family venture to a thriving business now laying asphalt across major cities in Arizona.
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A Family Commitment to Growth
The company’s story is deeply intertwined with the Estrada family. Oscar Estrada, Sr., Oscar’s father, laid the groundwork decades ago with Estrada Grading and Paving, starting with Massey Ferguson equipment and gradually moving into asphalt. Oscar grew up learning the trade alongside his father, running equipment and discovering the nuances of paving.
In 2019, Oscar decided to branch out, establishing Primavera Grading and Paving with a clear vision to pursue larger contracts and expand the company’s capabilities.
“When we started, it was Oscar Senior and me,” he said. “From there, one of my sisters, Priscilla, wanted to be a part of it. She’s currently doing a great job as an estimator.”
The family involvement didn’t stop there. Oscar’s oldest daughter, Nicole, now manages the financial operations, while daughter Adrianne recently joined the office to assist the estimators. Even his younger children, 10-year-old Daniella and 16-year-old Oscar Jr., are eagerly contributing.
“It’s been interesting working with family,” Oscar said. “Sometimes it gets tough, but it’s great to see them help out today, and it’ll be nice to see them running it all down the road.”
This multi-generational commitment is a testament to Primavera’s enduring strength and future potential.
“Initially we ran small equipment, but as we grew, we needed bigger machines to match the jobs,” Oscar Estrada said.
From Patchwork to Roadwork
Primavera’s journey from small patching jobs to significant road projects required more than just ambition.
“We started with parking lots,” Oscar explained. “Then we got an opportunity to get on the roads with one of our biggest customers, ViaSun. They helped us get into that.”
ViaSun provided the initial contracts that allowed Primavera to tackle larger streets and highways in cities like Peoria and Phoenix. This expansion necessitated a shift to larger, more advanced machinery.
“Initially we ran small equipment, but as we grew, we needed bigger machines to match the jobs,” he said.
This is where the relationships with Arnold Machinery Company and Volvo Construction Equipment became crucial.
“With our dealer, one of the biggest things that makes it easier is having partners when we’re out here,” he said. “They have the brand of equipment I like—the equipment I need. One of them is on my rollers. I use Volvo, and I love them.”
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Precision, Performance and Progress
On a recent patching job in a residential neighborhood in Peoria, Primavera deployed a fleet of Volvo compactors, including a DD128, a DD25 diesel-powered asphalt compactor and a new DD25 Electric asphalt compactor. The project provided the perfect opportunity to compare the electric model against its diesel counterpart.
Eulojio Barrientes, a seasoned operator for Primavera, noted the critical role these machines played in meeting project specifications.
“Our compactors have to be able to hit hard so I can get the numbers that I need. And so far, we’re hitting them,” he said.
Barrientes, who has operated a range of brands over the years, said his experience with the new DD25 Electric was positive.
“It’s a lot smoother. It’s not as loud and there’s no exhaust,” he said.
The absence of diesel fumes and noise makes for a safer, more comfortable working environment, especially in the residential areas where Primavera often operates.
Oscar has also learned to appreciate the advanced technology available in today’s compactors, particularly Density Direct™ on the Volvo DD128, which displays mat temperatures, pass counts, density readings and more.
“I think having compactors with technology screens like these will take us to the next level. They help us understand the different mixes and how we can get the best results,” Oscar explained.
This real-time data allows operators to work more efficiently and to consistently meet stringent compaction requirements, which are essential for Primavera to maintain their reputation for high-quality results.
“Initially we ran small equipment, but as we grew, we needed bigger machines to match the jobs,” Oscar Estrada said.
The Right Partner, Mile After Mile
The relationship with Volvo dealer Arnold Machinery has been instrumental in Primavera’s success. Jake Zayas, the dealership’s Arizona branch manager, understands the unique demands of the paving business.
“There can be 10 trucks stacked up on an asphalt job, and if the paver or compactor goes down, it shuts the job site down,” he explained. “That material has a lifespan, and it can cost the contractor a lot of money and reputation. So, with customers like these, if we get a call, it’s our number one priority.”
This commitment to uptime and responsive service has earned Arnold Machinery Oscar’s loyalty.
“Volvo compactors are great, and the service they bring me is what makes me stay with them,” he said. “I can call them any time, and they’ll have the equipment here for me. And if we need service or a part, they’re hands-down better than anything else out there.”
Oscar specifically credits Zayas for lifting Primavera to new heights.
“He really pushes us out here. He either makes me smile or gets me a little bit ticked off because he’s putting me somewhere uncomfortable, but I know it’s something better. It’s for me to grow and that’s what I’m going to keep pushing to, so I appreciate it.”
A Reputation Built on Pride and Performance
Primavera’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the equipment. Oscar takes immense pride in his team and his company’s appearance, which directly contributes to their strong reputation in the area.
“What makes us different is that we show up with great, good-looking, clean equipment that we’re proud of,” he said.
In residential areas, the stakes are even higher.
“The compaction has to be perfect on the asphalt. You can’t have bumps or things like that,” Oscar explained. “Especially in neighborhoods, we want to make sure the liability goes down and make sure the families have smooth surfaces to walk and drive on.”
This dedication to safety and quality ensures a smooth, safe experience for the community.
Future Contracts and Crews
Oscar has ambitious plans. In the next three to five years, he aims to transition from being a subcontractor to becoming a prime contractor on major projects, which will require more equipment and more crews.
“My goal is to have about seven crews working on that side of our business,” he said, up from their current four.
This vision relies heavily on the continued support of partners like Arnold Machinery and Volvo.
“Going back to Arnold Machinery, they’ll be able to help us out,” he said. “We know they can get us the equipment we need and can rely on.”
But it’s more than compactors he’ll be looking at. Oscar anticipates acquiring more Volvo compactors and even exploring other Volvo products like loaders and excavators for their dirt work down the road.
Primavera Grading and Paving has come a long way. Their journey is a testament to the power of strong partnerships, a commitment to quality and a deeply rooted family ethos. With powerful partners by their side, Oscar and his team are well-positioned to continue paving the way for a successful future.
Justin Zupanc is the compaction product manager for Volvo CE.