Level Ground Prevents Future Pavement Problems

Base work and grading in St. Louis create the foundation that keeps asphalt stable and functional for years.

Before asphalt can be installed, the ground beneath it must be properly prepared and compacted. If the base layer is uneven or poorly drained, the pavement above it will shift, crack, or sink within a few seasons. You may have noticed driveways or parking lots in St. Louis  where sections have settled unevenly or where water pools after rain. Premier Asphalt Solutions LLC performs base work and grading to eliminate those issues before the asphalt is ever laid.

This service involves excavating the existing surface, grading the soil to the correct slope for drainage, and then placing and compacting a layer of aggregate base material. The base distributes the weight of vehicles and prevents the pavement from shifting or sinking. Proper grading directs water away from the surface and off the property, which protects both the asphalt and the underlying soil from erosion. This step is required for new installations and major replacements where the old pavement and base have failed.

If you are planning a new driveway or parking lot in St. Louis , contact Premier Asphalt Solutions LLC to evaluate the site and discuss grading requirements.

Compacted Aggregate Supports What Comes Next

The crew begins by removing the existing surface and excavating to the depth needed for the base layer. In St. Louis , this often involves clearing old gravel, damaged asphalt, or unstable soil. The ground is then graded to slope away from buildings and toward drainage areas. Aggregate base material is delivered, spread evenly, and compacted using a plate compactor or roller to create a firm, level surface.

After the work is complete, you will see a flat, stable surface that sheds water instead of holding it. The base will not shift under weight, and the slope will guide runoff away from structures and into designated drainage paths. Proper compaction eliminates voids and soft spots that would otherwise cause the asphalt to crack or settle over time.

This service is completed with professional grading equipment to meet precise leveling standards. If the existing base is still intact and stable, it may not need to be replaced, but that determination is made after the site is assessed. Base work does not include asphalt installation, which is scheduled separately once the grading is complete and approved.

What Property Owners Want to Know

Base preparation is not as visible as the finished pavement, but it determines how long the surface will last and how well it will perform. These questions address common concerns about grading, drainage, and timing.

What happens if the base is not graded correctly?
Water will pool on the surface or soak into the base, which weakens the structure and causes the asphalt to crack or sink. Poorly graded surfaces often need replacement within a few years.
How thick does the aggregate base need to be?
Base thickness depends on the soil type and the intended use of the pavement. Residential driveways typically require four to six inches of compacted aggregate, while commercial lots may need more to support heavier loads.
Why is compaction important?
Compaction removes air pockets and locks the aggregate particles together, which creates a stable surface that will not shift under weight. Without compaction, the base will settle and cause the asphalt to crack.
When should base work be done before paving?

Base work is completed first and allowed to settle before asphalt is installed. In St. Louis , it is best to schedule grading during dry weather so the base can be compacted properly without excess moisture.

What if the soil underneath is unstable?
If the native soil is soft or shifts easily, it may need to be excavated deeper and replaced with additional aggregate or stabilized with geotextile fabric. This prevents the base from sinking into the soil over time.

Premier Asphalt Solutions LLC uses grading and compaction equipment designed for residential and commercial projects throughout St. Louis. If you are replacing a driveway or parking lot and need the base prepared correctly, reach out to schedule a site visit and review the scope of work required for your property.