Building a road starts with planning. Engineers study the area where the road will go. They look at maps, measure the land, and think about how many vehicles will use the road. They also check for the obstacle like hills, river and forest. The engineers also decide how wide the road should be, whether and the road need multiple lane or a bridge and which materials to use. They plan for things like drainage, bridges, and signs, while also making sure the road won’t harm the environment.
Next comes preparing the ground. Workers used bulldozer or excavator to clear the area by removing trees, rocks, or anything else in the way. Then, they level the land by cutting away high areas or filling low spots with soil. If the soil is too soft, they treat it to make it stronger so it can hold the road properly.
After the ground is ready, they build the foundation. Foundation is one of the most important part because it is the backbone of the road. The first step is preparation of subgrade. The natural ground (subgrade) is compacted tightly using rollers to remove air pockets and prevent the road from sinking or cracking later.
After preparing natural ground, they lay a layer called the subbase, made of crushed stones or gravel. This helps with drainage and supports the road. On top of that, they add a stronger layer called the base layer, which is thicker and more solid. Both layers are pressed down tightly using heavy machines to make them firm and stable.
Once the foundation is finished, they add the top layer, which is the surface that vehicles will drive on. For most roads, this layer is made of asphalt, which is a sticky and black material mixed with crushed stones and spread over the base layer. A smooth asphalt mix is laid on top and pressed together for asphalt road.
For some roads, they use concrete instead. For concrete roads the wet concrete is poured into molds and smoothed out, then allowed to harden. Expansion joints are added to prevent cracks when the concrete expands due to temperature changes. This layer needs to be strong, smooth, and able to handle all kinds of weather.
* refer to the picture above
* above on the left is drainage system for the road and on the right is the road signs
Finally, they add the finishing touches. They install drainage systems like gutters, ditches, and culverts are installed to prevent water from weakening the road.
*Gutter is designed to collect rainwater that flows along the street, making it flow into a storm drain.
*Ditches can also be used to carry water from field drains into streams and rivers.
*Culverts is drain pipes that run under roads, trails, or railways, allowing water to flow under the road at natural streams.
After drainage systems is installed, Lane markings are painted for lanes, crossings, and stop lines, often with reflective materials so its easy to see at night. Signs and guardrails are added to guide and protect drivers, while streetlights improve visibility in busy areas or at night. These touches ensure the road is ready and safe for use..
Before the road is opened, engineers carefully inspect it to make sure it’s safe and built properly. Once it passes all tests, the road is ready to use. Over time, workers will take care of the road by filling potholes, repainting lines, and sometimes adding new layers to keep it smooth and safe.
This process makes sure the road is strong, long-lasting, and safe for everyone to use
Here’s the road building / road construction in point form for easy reading.
- Plan the Road: Engineers study the land, decide the road’s path, width, and design, and prepare a detailed plan.
- Clear the Land: Workers remove trees, rocks, and other obstacles.
- Level the Ground: High areas are cut down, and low spots are filled to make the surface even.
- Lay the Subbase: A layer of crushed stones or gravel is spread and pressed for support and drainage.
- Add the Base Layer: A stronger, thicker layer of materials is added for durability.
- Pave the Surface: Asphalt or concrete is laid on top to create a smooth driving surface.
- Install Drainage: Gutters, pipes, and ditches are added to guide water away from the road.
- Add Safety Features: Paint lane markings, install signs, guardrails, and streetlights.
- Inspect the Road: Engineers check the road’s strength, smoothness, and drainage.
- Open and Maintain: The road is opened for use, with regular maintenance to keep it safe and smooth.