How an Asphalt Speed Bump Is Installed

February 15, 2021

How an Asphalt Speed Bump Is Installed

https://nacsupply.com/products/asphalt-speed-bump-lute

Speed bumps are an essential component of any parking lot. They slow drivers down, protecting pedestrians from injury. You might see speed bumps made from a wide variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and concrete, but asphalt speed bumps are the most common and—arguably—the most popular. Asphalt speed bumps come with multiple benefits. For example, they're more durable than rubber or plastic, which need to be replaced every year. Installing an asphalt speed bump might seem complicated, but the process is easier than you'd think. Let's run through the process of how an asphalt speed bump is installed step-by-step, so you can be sure you're installing it correctly.

Setting up the Location

The first step to paving asphalt speed bumps is marking and preparing the area for installation. You'll want to mark the area by saw cutting. When you're saw cutting, it's best to leave a one-foot distance from the curb or pathway. This way, you won't disrupt water flow. You'll also want to know the width and length of the speed bump you're installing. Typically, a speed bump is two to three feet wide and three to four inches high. This can vary depending on the contractor or the customer's personal preference.

Laying the Asphalt

Once you're done saw cutting and removing the asphalt, you can move on to the next step in the process: laying down the asphalt. After you’ve laid down the first layer of asphalt, you'll want to hand tamp it. This helps the asphalt settle in. Once the first layer settles down, you can start installing the speed bump. The first layer of the speed bump should be up to three inches high and raked, so it doesn't get messy. After that, you'll want to use a speed bump lute—a rake-like instrument that's used to form the speed bump. As the hot asphalt starts to spread, make sure to clean around the edges and hand tamp to lock in asphalt. Lastly, run a plate compactor over the bump and hand tamp areas that the compactor can’t get to. This will yield the best results.

Cooling and Striping

Knowing how an asphalt speed bump is installed is important, but it’s also important to know how long the process takes. Once the speed bump is installed, you'll need to give it time to cool down. The asphalt is hot, so you'll want to cordon off the area to let it cool. The cooling process is relatively fast. Asphalt can cool in under half an hour, but, as a precaution, it's better to leave it for an hour or more. Once the asphalt is fully dry, you can stripe it. The paint, much like the asphalt itself, shouldn't take more than an hour or two to fully dry.

If you're in need of supplies for your latest project, NAC Supply can help. We carry a wide variety of asphalt maintenance products, including asphalt tools, crack filling equipment, and striping machines. Come and shop with us today!




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