On a commercial property, asphalt isn’t just pavement—it’s the front line for heavy-duty use. Unlike residential driveways, commercial asphalt must endure a constant stream of foot traffic, daily deliveries, and the weight of heavy trucks and countless cars coming and going. It’s built to take on the hustle and bustle, handling everything from customer crowds to supply shipments.
As a leading commercial asphalt paving company in Charleston, SC, Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving, Inc. has years of experience building asphalt surfaces to the proper thickness. Whether installing a new parking lot, expanding your existing facility, or repaving a high-traffic area, our team is committed to your paving project’s long-term performance and durability.
Factors Affecting Asphalt Thickness
Laying asphalt for a commercial property requires a different approach than a typical residential property. Our commercial asphalt paving in Charleston, SC, can determine the ideal asphalt thickness by considering the following factors:
- Traffic load. The property’s expected traffic type and volume influence asphalt thickness. For example, properties expecting frequent use by heavy-duty trucks, delivery vans, or dense pedestrian traffic require thicker asphalt layers to prevent rutting and potholes.
The same property can require varying asphalt thicknesses depending on its use. For example, a supermarket’s parking lot handles large numbers of lighter vehicles, like passenger cars and pickup trucks. However, the loading docks at the back of the supermarket need thicker, more durable asphalt to withstand the weight and frequency of semi-trucks and freight deliveries.
- Soil conditions. Soil stability and composition also determine the ideal asphalt thickness for your project. For example, well-draining soils offer greater stability and can better support the weight of traffic.
Areas with loose, clay-heavy soil may require a thicker base or additional stabilization before paving begins. Our commercial construction company has experience surveying soil conditions in and around Charleston, SC. We have the resources to determine the best asphalt thicknesses for your project.
- Climate considerations. The climate also plays a part in determining asphalt needs. While winters in Charleston are typically mild, colder days can fall below freezing and cause freeze-thaw cycles. They cause the pavement to expand and contract, potentially damaging it if not properly reinforced. The high humidity and summer heat can soften the asphalt during the summer, making it more prone to deformation.
Our asphalt professionals can assess your project’s needs and develop an asphalt mixture and thickness that protects it from climate-related wear and tear.
Standard Asphalt Thicknesses
At Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving, Inc., we categorize commercial paving projects based on the expected weight and level of traffic. Each category corresponds to typical asphalt layer thicknesses and sub-base properties, which we adapt to fit your project’s needs.
- Light-duty projects. A 3 to 4 inches thickness is typically adequate for parking lots that primarily accommodate passenger vehicles. It includes a 2-inch binder layer and a 1.5-inch surface layer. Combined with a solid sub-base, this design ensures longevity for light traffic without compromising safety or aesthetics.
- Medium-duty projects. In areas with a mix of car and light truck traffic, such as mid-sized retail centers or office parks, we may recommend an asphalt thickness of 4 to 6 inches. Paving projects at this scale require a durable structure that resists moderate stress. The pavement typically includes a 2-inch binder layer followed by a 2-inch surface course to distribute weight effectively.
- Heavy-duty projects. The thickest asphalt layers are typically reserved for commercial properties and sectors with frequent traffic from heavy vehicles. Examples include semi-truck loading bays, industrial vehicles, and construction equipment. Heavy-duty asphalt layers are at least 6 to 8 inches thick, including a 4-inch binder layer and a 2-inch finish layer on a sturdy aggregate base.
Our team will also ensure the base and sub-base layers under the asphalt are properly compacted and engineered to support the asphalt. We typically construct our sub-base from 6-8 inches of compacted aggregate material, such as crushed stone or gravel. Our bases generally are 2-4 inches thick and made of even denser, finer aggregate, providing the asphalt surface with the stability it needs.
The Role of Local Regulations and Guidelines
Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving, Inc., has experience with all types of asphalt mix. We can select, develop, and implement all asphalt mixes recommended by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SC-DOT) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
Following these guidelines allows us to create durable, long-lasting asphalt surfaces for your commercial project and ensures they comply with federal and state standards.
As your trusted asphalt construction partner, we will also build asphalt surfaces as per Charleston’s paving city ordinances. For example, we will build parking lots and garages according to section 54-318 of the Charleston City Code. requirements
Need Guidance on Your Asphalt Project? Contact Us Now
The asphalt professionals at Howell & Simmons Construction & Paving, Inc. have 37 years of experience serving the Charleston, SC, area with commercial asphalt paving services.
We can assist you with every step of your paving project, from soil assessment and prep work to paving, grading, and maintenance. Contact us today to get a free estimate.