What Does a Plumber Do?

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Plumber Sarasota installs, repairs, and maintains piping and fixtures that distribute water in buildings. Their duties can include examining and testing pipes for leaks, identifying blockages, and repairing toilets and taps.

Plumber

Plumbers often work on construction sites, laying out piping systems according to blueprints and building specifications. They also interpret plumbing codes and regulations.

The plumbing system in a home or business takes away waste water, provides hot and cold water, and regulates indoor climate through pipes, valves, fixtures and fittings. Plumbers install these systems, making sure they function as intended and are safe for use. They may also repair or replace existing ones.

One of the most important tasks for a plumber is installing new plumbing systems. In this role, they work from blueprints and architectural plans to lay out piping systems, install fixtures like sinks, toilets and bathtubs, and hook up appliances such as washers and dryers. Plumbers often have to make sure all their work complies with local building codes.

Before beginning the installation process, plumbers must first assess the current plumbing system to see if any repairs are needed. Then they’ll open up the wall to access existing piping and check that all joints, fittings and connections are secure. Finally, the plumber will test the system for leaks and ensure all appliances are working properly.

Some plumbers work exclusively on residential properties while others specialize in commercial, industrial or manufacturing facilities. Commercial and industrial plumbers focus on larger-scale piping networks and specialized equipment, such as gas boilers and fire sprinkler systems.

In these roles, they often work with large volumes of water and chemicals that are hazardous to human health if not handled correctly. Plumbers who work with these substances must be highly trained and take extra precautions to protect themselves and their workers.

Plumbers who work with customers must have excellent customer service skills to respond to queries and concerns. They must be able to communicate clearly, listen to their clients’ needs and provide them with accurate information about products and services. They may also need to negotiate prices and payment terms. Many plumbers are independent contractors, meaning they have greater control over their schedule and the types of projects they take on. This can lead to a more varied work experience and the opportunity to develop a variety of skills. Joining professional groups and associations can also help plumbers broaden their networks and find new opportunities.

Inspection

When plumbing fixtures or pipes show signs of wear and tear, a plumber can conduct a thorough inspection to find the source of the problem. During this process, the plumber will check for leaks in supply lines, drain lines, water heater tanks and any other visible components. They will also test for proper water pressure and flow. If there are problems, the plumber can recommend solutions like repairs or replacements.

In addition, the plumber will look for potential safety hazards like leaking gas connections, exposed electrical wires or cross-connections between water sources. They will also assess the condition of the home’s plumbing system and compare it to local code requirements for materials, installation and design.

The plumber will start with a visual evaluation of accessible plumbing fixtures like sinks, toilets, bathtubs and showers. They will also look for signs of water damage like mold, rust or cracked surfaces. They will also examine appliance connections like dishwasher and washing machine hookups for proper installation. They will check for clogged drains and drain lines and evaluate water flow to ensure it is within normal ranges. The plumber can recommend upgrades to improve efficiency, like water-conserving fixtures or newer pipe materials that can reduce water bills.

Upon completion of the inspection, the plumber will provide a written report of their findings and recommended solutions. They will also give recommendations for regular maintenance to prevent future problems. The plumber will assess the condition of pipes and underlying structures, such as the foundation, to determine if any repairs are necessary.

While a homeowner can do a basic visual inspection of their plumbing, hiring a professional plumber is highly recommended. These professionals have the knowledge, specialized tools and hands-on experience to conduct a thorough inspection. They can save homeowners time and money by identifying and addressing problems before they escalate into expensive repairs or damage to the property. In addition, regular inspections can help homeowners plan major home improvement projects and budget accordingly. This can also help buyers have confidence in the home’s plumbing and increase its value when it is time to sell.

Repair

Plumbers repair the many fixtures and pipes that deliver water, gas, and waste to and from homes and businesses. They are responsible for ensuring these systems function properly and safely, which includes preventing leaks. Plumbers often use a wide range of tools, equipment, and supplies to perform their job duties. Some of the more common tools include pipe cutters, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, wire strippers, and more. They also use advanced tools such as video inspection cameras and high-pressure water pumps to remove blockages from drains.

A plumber may also be responsible for maintaining and repairing heating and cooling systems. This can involve repairing or replacing parts such as thermostats, valves, and ductwork. Other maintenance tasks they might perform include installing or repairing garbage disposals, toilet flappers, and showerheads. In addition, a plumber might be asked to perform preventive maintenance by testing the pressure of the water supply, inspecting appliances for safety and efficiency, and cleaning drains to keep them clear of debris and odors.

When a pipe is leaking, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent costly damage. Before beginning any repairs, a plumber should turn off the water supply to the affected area. They should then dry the area and remove any furniture or belongings that could be damaged by water if the leak continues. Next, the plumber should remove the old pipe and clean the area before installing the new one. The plumber should also replace any washers or caps that were removed from the end of the pipe and use a pipe cutting tool to make sure the new pipe is the correct size for the existing fittings.

A plumber should always wear gloves when handling any type of plumbing repair tool or material. This will protect them from hazardous materials and ensure they get the job done correctly. Lastly, a plumber should test the water for safety before turning it back on. This can be done using a noncontact water tester or by running a small amount of water through the system to confirm it works properly.

Maintenance

Plumbers are responsible for installing, repairing and maintaining the water and sewage systems that keep homes and businesses running smoothly. Their work can range from repairing leaky faucets to replacing entire plumbing systems. It is a skilled trade that requires knowledge of a wide range of tools and building codes and regulations. Plumbers also need to have excellent customer service skills to interact with clients and explain complex issues in easy-to-understand terms.

There are several paths to becoming a plumber, including vocational schools and apprenticeship programs. Those interested in this career should have a high school diploma and be comfortable working with their hands. They should also be familiar with basic plumbing concepts and be able to follow directions. Some states require licensing and certification for plumbers.

While there are many benefits to being a plumber, the job does have its downsides. It is physically demanding, and plumbers often spend long periods of time on their feet or in cramped spaces. In addition, plumbers are exposed to dangerous chemicals and materials that can be harmful to their health. They also must be able to work well under pressure and meet strict deadlines.

Licensed Plumbers

Plumbers who have earned their journeyman or master plumber license have undergone extensive training and passed state-approved exams. These professionals are experienced and knowledgeable in all aspects of plumbing installation, repair and maintenance. They can handle a variety of tasks, such as connecting pipes and fittings, using soldering techniques, cutting and welding metal and installing water heaters. They can also troubleshoot and diagnose problems with plumbing fixtures, such as taps, toilets, valves, drains and sewer lines.

Commercial plumbers focus on the installation, maintenance and repair of large-scale plumbing systems in office buildings, hospitals, retail shops and other industrial settings. These professionals are knowledgeable about a wide range of tools and equipment, including pipe cutters, wrenches, plungers, soldering tools, drain snakes, power flushers, and steam boilers. They also know how to read blueprints and understand building construction and engineering, and they can collaborate with architects and construction teams to ensure that plumbing systems are integrated seamlessly into new construction projects.

The Advantages of Roofing Companies

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Roofing companies specialize in repairing and installing shingle, metal and flat roofs. They also offer services like insulation that help make homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Roofing

Choosing the right business entity is critical. It will affect everything from legal processes to bookkeeping. It is important to involve an accountant early on to get advice and guidance.

Roofing companies have a lot of knowledge at their fingertips. They can help you make smart choices when it comes to materials, cost-saving options, and best practices. They should be able to provide you with an accurate estimate that includes all the hard and soft costs associated with your project. They should also be able to give you warranties on the quality of their work and the products they use. Look for manufacturers’ warranties that protect shingles and workmanship for 30 years or more, as well as a standard warranty on labor.

Using technology for more efficient operations, such as roofing estimation software and drones for roof inspections, is key for a successful roofing business. These tools can reduce labor costs and increase customer satisfaction. Roofing companies that invest in these innovative solutions will have an edge over their competitors.

In storm-prone areas, insurance claims can make or break a roofing company’s profitability. Roofing professionals who understand the ins and outs of insurance claim processes can expect to earn gross margins as high as 40% on residential projects. This is a great way to add year-round revenue without having to rely solely on seasonal sales.

The first step to a profitable roofing business is having a solid plan in place. This should include a mission statement, target market, services offered, pricing strategy, and financial projections. Obtaining all the necessary licenses and permits is also crucial.

Another key ingredient is a strong digital marketing strategy. Using SEO techniques to optimize your website, social media, and email content can get your business right to the top of search results. Door-to-door salesmanship is a tried and true way to bring in new customers, too. However, it’s important to avoid a pushy sales pitch and convey a sense of professionalism and friendliness.

Comprehensive Services

Roofing companies not only address roofing issues such as leaks and damaged shingles, but also provide comprehensive services for your home’s overall aesthetic. They offer a range of window, door and siding services that complement your roof and can help you save on energy costs.

Unlike DIY contractors, these companies prioritize safety by providing proper safety equipment and following strict protocols during the entire project. This ensures that no one gets hurt during the installation or repair process, which can be a dangerous task. Additionally, they know how to deal with various weather conditions that may affect the project and can recommend the best type of materials to use to ensure durability.

A good roofing company will assess your property, inspect the roof, and then prepare a quote based on its needs. They will provide comprehensive roofing services that include removing old and damaged shingles, installing new shingles, repairing existing roof systems, replacing the flashing, and addressing any water damage. They will also provide you with a detailed warranty that offers peace of mind and protection from future problems.

Besides these, roofing contractors can assist you with other exterior services such as installing and repairing windows and doors, including sliding, casement, double-hung, bay, and awning windows. They can also assist you with the installation of vinyl, wood, and composite siding for your house.

Moreover, they can also help you add curb appeal to your home by helping you choose the right colors and materials to match your roof. This can increase your property’s value and make it easier to sell in the future. A well-maintained roof can also improve your home’s energy efficiency and increase its lifespan.

Efficiency

When working on a large project like re-roofing or installing a solar roof, roofing companies have the staff and tools to get the job done in an efficient manner. They can spot issues and address them immediately, ensuring the project is completed within the agreed-upon timeline. They can also work with the homeowner to come up with a plan that will minimize disruptions to their daily lives.

Using technology to streamline operations and provide more accurate, timely, and cost-effective services is becoming increasingly important for roofing contractors. Whether it’s software for project management and estimation or drones for roof inspections, they can save time and money by integrating innovative solutions into their business practices.

Digital marketing is a great way to reach potential customers and showcase the value of your services. A professional website, social media, and search engine optimization skills will help your company stand out among the competition.

A well-signed vehicle is another low-cost marketing strategy that can increase visibility and promote your brand. Make sure to use high-quality images and a clear message that highlights your services. Adding a mobile payment tool like Broadly can save you time and improve the customer experience by providing them with an instant invoice they can use to pay.

Lastly, networking is an effective way to build relationships and find new clients. Reach out to local realtors, construction firms, and insurance companies to develop mutual referral programs that can benefit your business. You can also try door-to-door salesmanship by handing out fliers or pamphlets to local homeowners. Just remember to be polite and respectful, as people are less likely to respond positively to a cold sales pitch.

Safety

Professional roofing companies prioritize safety and employ industry-appropriate tools, equipment, and safeguards to prevent injuries to their workers and damage to your property. They also install other safety measures like perimeter flag lines and permanent safety rails, providing peace of mind for both you and your family.

Roofing work involves the use of dangerous tools and requires working at heights, which can pose serious risks if not handled correctly. A qualified roofing company will have a comprehensive safety program that includes onsite inspections, prompt correction of unsafe conditions, and open communication among staff members about ongoing hazards and risks. They also provide regular training and education to ensure employees remain up-to-date on the latest safety standards, regulations, and protocols.

Ladders and scaffolds are essential tools for roof installation projects, but they can pose significant risks if not used properly. Roofing companies make sure ladders are of an appropriate design and weight capacity for the task at hand, and they’re always secured to prevent accidents. They also train their workers in how to properly inspect, disassemble, and maintain all the protective gear and equipment they’re required to wear.

Advanced technology is making it easier and safer for roofing contractors to follow workplace safety protocols. Whether it’s drones for on-site inspections or virtual reality (VR) training, innovative new tools help to reduce workplace hazards and increase worker safety.

Timely Completion

When a roofing company can meet project deadlines, it demonstrates competence and professionalism. In addition, it helps the contractor establish a strong relationship with clients. Meeting deadlines also helps reduce the cost of a project, as well as potential penalties for failing to meet contractual obligations. This is why timely completion of construction projects is crucial for contractors.

A reliable roofing contractor will be able to plan its work in advance to ensure that the project can be completed on time. This will help avoid delays and minimize the impact of weather conditions, which can cause significant setbacks during a roof replacement or installation. Homeowners should inquire about the contractor’s availability during the duration of their project and their strategies for handling unexpected challenges.

It’s also important to determine whether a roofing company has experience with the specific type of roofing system you’re looking to have installed. Inquire about their familiarity with built-up, single-ply, and spray polyurethane foam roofing systems, as well as their work at facilities akin to your own.

In determining whether a roofing company is reliable, homeowners can also check its online reviews and ratings. Detailed testimonials and a gallery of past projects can offer a glimpse into a roofing contractor’s workmanship and customer service capabilities. Additionally, a reputable roofing company will comply with local regulations and provide proof of insurance coverage and warranties for its services.

How Commercial Cleaning Services Can Benefit Your Business

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A clean place of work is critical to business uninterrupted operation and revenue growth. Commercial Cleaning Baltimore provides the expertise and equipment necessary to keep your office looking great.

Commercial Cleaning

Services may include trash removal, sanitization of shared areas like restrooms and breakrooms, cleaning glass and window surfaces, washing and cleaning furniture, elements of decor, doors, walls, and other cleaning tasks.

Cleanliness is a major factor in an employee’s morale and work efficiency. Having a clean workspace allows them to concentrate on their tasks without worrying about clutter and other visual distractions. Moreover, they can save time when they don’t have to search for files or equipment because everything is organized and easy to find. Keeping workplaces clean and tidy also minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries. For instance, messy and cluttered facilities can cause tripping hazards while dust can interfere with the proper functioning of heavy equipment.

Commercial cleaning companies have the equipment, skills, and expertise to perform routine cleaning tasks like vacuuming carpets, mopping floors, dusting surfaces, emptying trash bins, and disinfecting common areas. They can also provide specialized services, such as cleaning and sanitizing electronic devices and HVAC systems.

Office cleaning services can help boost productivity by reducing the spread of germs and viruses, which can result in fewer staff sick days. It’s also crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce stress levels by ensuring a clean working environment and keeping employees safe.

A clean and well-maintained business makes a good first impression on visitors and clients, as well as helps create an excellent image for the company. It also sets a high standard for customer service and establishes confidence among clients. Moreover, it ensures that the company meets all CDC and OSHA guidelines.

A clean and organized working environment is crucial for businesses that want to maintain high productivity levels and a good reputation. However, it may be difficult for a company to maintain its cleanliness on a daily basis, especially with a busy work schedule. This is where a professional cleaning service comes in, which provides regular and recurring cleaning services. By hiring a professional cleaning service, you can leave the task of cleaning your commercial property to the experts and focus on your business. In addition, the service will ensure that your workplace stays hygienic, clean, and organized at all times, giving you a competitive edge over competitors. This will help you attract and retain customers.

Less Sick Days

In general, commercial cleaning companies work in a variety of areas, including offices, retail stores, hospitals, and schools. This means that they have to be familiar with the best practices for a wide range of situations. For example, they must know how to deal with the potential for hazardous materials to be present in the workspace, and they must understand how these materials could affect employees’ health.

One way that commercial cleaners help reduce sick days is by providing a clean and healthy workplace for employees. When germs are eliminated, employees will be able to keep their immune systems strong and will be less likely to get sick. In addition, a clean and tidy workplace will allow employees to concentrate on their work without distractions, which can lead to increased productivity.

A professional commercial cleaning company will also be able to identify problem areas in the office before they become too much of a nuisance. They will check for things like wet spots on walls, which can be a sign of serious structural problems that could lead to additional costs if left unchecked. If they notice any issues, they will report them to management right away so that the appropriate steps can be taken.

It is essential that businesses keep their staff as healthy as possible, particularly during the cold and flu season. This is because it can cost them billions of dollars in lost revenue if the workers have to take time off from their jobs. A professional commercial cleaning company can help to limit this impact by using the best practices for sanitizing areas of the business that are most likely to carry bacteria such as computer keyboards, telephones, sink faucets, bathroom taps and vending machine buttons.

If you are looking for a commercial cleaning company for your business, be sure to choose one that uses only qualified and experienced employees. Ask to see their resumes, and find out if they have been trained in the industry. It is also important to find out how they hire their employees, and whether or not they do background checks.

Increased Productivity

The more efficient a commercial cleaning company is, the faster they can get jobs done. This allows them to take on more clients and increase their revenue. It also means that clients will be satisfied with their services and will likely refer them to other businesses in need of janitorial services.

Workplace productivity is a key factor that managers and business owners are always looking to improve. They focus on employee training, resource allocation, and performance evaluations, but often overlook a very important element: workspace cleanliness.

Clean, organized workplaces help to reduce stress levels and create a positive working environment for employees. This can boost morale and lead to higher productivity, as employees feel motivated to work harder in an environment that is visually appealing and well-maintained.

One of the most effective ways to increase productivity is to use a national commercial cleaning service. Not only do they ensure that all areas are properly cleaned and sanitized, but they also provide other important services like waste removal and recycling. This can help companies stay compliant with local and state environmental regulations, which is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace.

A clean working space can also improve the efficiency of employees by reducing clutter and making it easier to find items. In addition, it can decrease the number of germs and allergens in the office and increase the lifespan of carpeting, furniture, and other materials. These are just a few of the many ways that commercial cleaners can make businesses more productive.

To increase the efficiency of your janitorial company, implement the right tools and software. Using a software solution designed specifically for the commercial cleaning industry can give you greater visibility into scheduling, site inspections, and more. With features like priority task management and timetamps, you can see exactly how long it takes your team to complete tasks at a client site and compare this against the average. This helps you to ensure that all of your team members are on track and providing the quality of service that your clients deserve.

Better Reputation

A commercial cleaning company can provide a lot of value to businesses that hire them. They can save time, increase productivity, and create a healthier work environment for employees. In addition, they can clean up air quality by removing pollutants from HVAC systems and improving overall indoor space cleanliness. These companies can also handle trash removal, floor care, and sanitization of bathrooms and eating spaces.

When searching for a commercial cleaning company, many people look to online reviews and feedback to make their decisions. If you have a solid reputation online, it can help you attract more clients and build your business. You can even use your positive reviews in your marketing strategies.

Customers are looking for good customer service and a high level of satisfaction when hiring a commercial cleaning company. Satisfied customers will become repeat clients and can act as brand ambassadors for your business. There are several ways to improve customer satisfaction, including offering rewards and discounts for loyal customers, communicating effectively with clients, and providing personalized services.

In today’s world, a reputation can make or break a business. Bad news travels fast and can damage a company’s reputation in an instant. This is why it’s crucial to have a strong customer service strategy and a process for handling negative reviews.

A well-thought-out plan can help you manage your business’s reputation, so that you can get more positive reviews and attract new customers. One way to do this is by creating an email autoresponder series that automatically asks your clients for a review after each cleaning appointment. This will not only improve your customer service, but it can also help you increase your online ratings and improve your search engine optimization.

If you are not already using a reputation management strategy, it is time to start. Negative reviews can deter potential customers from working with your cleaning company and can make them think twice about hiring you in the future. However, if you respond quickly to these negative reviews and take measures to fix the problem, it can give your customers confidence that you are willing to make things right.

Geotechnical Factors That Affect the Performance of Pavement

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Pavement is designed to transfer wheel load stresses from vehicles to the subgrade. Most of the geotechnical factors that affect pavement performance relate to stiffness and strength.

Pavement

The sub-grade is the underlying ground upon which all other pavement layers will be constructed. It is the most important of all the pavement construction layers, as it is responsible for transmitting vehicular load stresses to the base course and the surface layer(s). The sub-grade should be made of a material capable of supporting the loads without causing deformation or settlement problems. This material may also need to be stabilized in order to provide a suitable foundation for the rest of the paving construction.

A capping layer is usually placed on the sub-grade if the soil is structurally weak or is expected to be subjected to exceptional loads. The capping layer is typically a selected fill material, generally a crushed rock, placed in layers no greater than 225mm thick and thoroughly compacted before placing the next layer. The engineer will determine the thickness required to adequately support the anticipated traffic loading.

Generally, the sub-grade should not contain silt or clay and be free of organic materials as these will decompose under the heavy construction loads. Sub-grade should be properly graded to ensure a smooth, level and even surface.

If the sub-grade soil has insufficient strength for the proposed traffic loads it can be improved by blending in lime or Portland cement or by treating with asphaltic binder and thorough compaction. In addition, the soil can be stabilized by incorporating a geosynthetic or other material. These products are designed to prevent moisture intrusion or expulsion and reduce swelling tendencies.

A simple way to check the moisture content bearing capacity of a soil is to squeeze it in your hand; if it stays together and has powdery texture then it is too dry and needs to be moistened, while a ball that breaks apart readily indicates that the sub-grade soil is at its optimum moisture content.

There are various laboratory tests that can be used to evaluate the strength of a sub-grade; these include the CBR test, falling weight deflectometer, and indirect shear testing. However, these are costly and labor intensive and are only able to evaluate a small sample area. For this reason, most engineers use their engineering judgment to establish limits and quantities of sub-grade stabilization based on subsurface exploration results and proof rolling evaluations.

Base Course

The base course is a layer of specified or selected material of designed thickness placed on the subgrade (or on the unbound granular base if a subbase is not used) to provide a uniform and stable support for the binder and surface courses. It typically provides a significant portion of the structural capacity in flexible pavement systems and improves foundation stiffness in rigid pavements. It also minimizes intrusion of fines from the subgrade into the pavement structure and improves drainage.

A high quality granular or crushed rock aggregate is generally used to form the base. The aggregates may be used as-is or treated with various stabilizing admixtures to increase the strength and stiffness of the base material and/or to help reduce the total pavement thickness for cost savings. For example, the base may be treated with Portland cement, asphalt emulsions, lime or flyash to increase its strength, density and/or porosity.

Whether or not the base is bound with bitumen, it must be densely compacted to achieve proper load distribution and improve drainage characteristics of the pavement. In the case of a bituminous pavement, the base may be made from either hot-paved or cold-paved asphalt (HMA). Increasingly, a percentage of recycled construction materials are being used in the production of these mixes.

In the case of a non-bituminous pavement, a mineral aggregate mixture is used for the base. This mixture can be bound with bitumen if it is heated or it can be hydraulically bound if bitumen is not used and the aggregates are mixed with cement or lime.

For cold-paved bituminous pavements, the base is usually made from a hot or cold mix of aggregate and a liquid asphalt binding agent. Typically the bituminous base mixes are comprised of aggregates from uncrushed gravel and coarse aggregate to crushed granite, recycled concrete, and/or crushed sand.

In some instances, a frost blanket is included in the base layer to insulate the base and subgrade layers from moisture action that can lead to frost damage within the pavement structure. Frost damage occurs as water within the pavement structure freezes and expands, exerting tensile stresses in the layers below it. These stresses must be relieved to avoid failure of the pavement structure.

Binder Course

A binder course is the layer that binds together aggregate and hot-mix asphalt. It is a load-bearing layer and must be strong enough to support the traffic loads for as long as several decades. The material used for the binder course varies depending on the specific use. In general, it is a mix of coarse and fine aggregates with a bituminous binder. Aggregates used for this purpose could be crushed rock, sand, gravel and/or recycled materials such as concrete, slag or reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). The binder is typically bitumen but in recent times other bio-based binders are also being tested.

The quality of the binder is crucial for the performance of the asphalt pavement. For this reason, shear and rut resistance testing of the asphalt binder is performed in advance of construction. This test is known as grading of asphalt binders and the results are used to establish a Performance-Graded (PG) asphalt binder specification. The shear and rut resistance tests are conducted using a rotational viscometer, COC flashpoint tester and dynamic shear and bending beam rheometers.

In addition, the PG grading system includes physical performance tests such as penetration, softening point and ductility. In order to obtain accurate shear and rut resistance results, the asphalt binder must be subjected to careful temperature control. This is because for various reasons, asphalt binders tend to harden with time.

For these reasons, this class provides the latest information about testing and grading of asphalt binders. It offers extensive hands-on lab experience that enables students to perform all required tests and make the necessary calculations. A review exam is also provided near the end of the class. This class is recommended for anyone who is responsible for asphalt testing, materials approval and specification. It is also ideal for asphalt paving contractors and engineers who want to understand the current practices in asphalt testing, grading and quality control. The course is offered in an onsite format or as an online class.

Surface Course

The top layer of the pavement structure that comes in direct contact with traffic loads, the surface course is the most critical element for a pavement to function properly. It needs to be hardy enough to resist skidding, traffic abrasion and the disintegrating effects of climate. It also needs to be tough enough to prevent distortion and prevent water from penetrating into the underlying layers.

The asphalt surface layer may be constructed in several different ways including traditional hot rolled asphalt (HMA), soft asphalt, porous asphalt or NatraTex. These materials are used in the construction of a range of infrastructure projects including footpaths, cycle paths, residential and commercial driveways and main roads.

Depending on the design of the pavement the subbase layer may be an unbound granular layer or a road asphalt base course. The function of the base course is to spread the load from the asphalt surface layer over a greater area thus reducing the overall stress on the subgrade soils and the asphalt binder layer. It also serves to minimize the intrusion of fines from the subgrade into the pavement structure and improve drainage.

The subgrade soils are under a constant amount of stress from the traffic and environmental loads, which transfer through the pavement layers. It is essential that the subgrade be well compacted to a high density and within its optimum moisture content to prevent over-stressing of the material.

Once the base and subbase courses are placed on the roadway, it is time for the paving contractor to construct the final surface course. The surfacing material of choice for most highways and major roads is HMA, sometimes known as bituminous macadam or blacktop. However, there are a wide range of alternative materials that can be used in the construction of a road or parking lot including chip seal and self-binding gravel.

The surface course is important for the durability of a pavement, and is typically constructed with aggregates that have a size distribution that will create a smooth, durable, waterproof riding surface with good skid resistance. In addition to its surface properties, the surface course is important for a pavement because it provides a strong connection between the roadbed and the traffic surface. It is also a key component in the identification of distress in a pavement, so that it can be corrected before it progresses to the underlying intermediate or binder layer.