Double-Check Paving Measurements Before You Start

You’ve heard, “measure twice, cut once” and “trust, but verify.” This is how you avoid mistakes. This is also why savvy contractors line out their paving jobs and paint the number of tons each pass requires on the existing surface.

Even if you have a state-of-the-art GPS with positioning stations sending depths and slopes to multiple tablets and smartphones, you still want to take the time to paint numbers on the surface. ​

In a nutshell: Double-check the numbers.

Maybe it’s overkill to paint long lines if you trust your station’s uptime, but the numbers and signs you include in the daily project are markers for each member of the team. Keep everyone on the same page.

Look at other areas you’re measuring, such as the extensions on the screed. Extend the screed out and measure it. While the marks you’ve painted on the extendible are your guide, you want to pull the tape measure out of your tool belt and make sure you’ve got it right.

Check the depth you’ve set. The automation and controls are excellent tools to help the paving crew get bonus-worthy results in the field, but it’s wise to double-check settings and the metal’s movements. Did the screed plate truly take on a 2 percent slope? Get out the level and straight edge and measure to find out.

If you measure before you start paving, you’ll have more confidence going forward. And you’ll have a better chance at getting full pay in the end.

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