When we travel across the interstates of America, we often pass road construction signs flashing the message, Men At Work. More often than not, a local patrolman is waiting to issue speeding fines that are doubled in this protected zone. When local asphalt contractors lay asphalt on our interstate or state highways, the work site is congested with semi-trailer trucks backing up to the asphalt paver to unload tons of hot asphalt into the hopper while rollers with large, water filled, drums compact the asphalt just laid. The work crews of local asphalt contractors in construction zones are in constant danger; it is essential vehicles in adjoining lands drive with care. Flagmen with neon colored vest control the flow of traffic on single lane highways when local asphalt paving and road construction crews are present to prevent fatal accidents. Although state licensing procedures differ, asphalt paving contractors and general contractors are required take state board exams and have a minimum dollar amount in business assets. Local asphalt paving contractors offer more than just the laying of asphalt, the contractors knowledge of the area and any soil amendments needed to prepare the work site. This needs to take place before asphalt is laid, whether it is a parking lot, driveway, private road or interstate and state roads. Specialized sub-contractors and often times a local asphalt contractor work under a general contractor. Weather conditions are considered by the local asphalt paving contractor before he will pave. Rain, snow and ice and fridge temperatures can delay a paving project.
