Road Pavement Layer Takeoff — Subgrade to Wearing Course
A road cross-section is a stack of layers, each with its own material, thickness, and unit. The takeoff is systematic once you have the typical section.
Layer quantities
| Layer | Unit | Computation |
|---|---|---|
| Subgrade preparation | m² | formation width × length |
| Aggregate sub-base | m³ | width × compacted thickness × length × bulking |
| Aggregate base course | m³ | as above (narrower width) |
| Asphalt binder course | tonne | area × thickness × mix density (~2.35 t/m³) |
| Asphalt wearing course | tonne | as above |
Widths step in
Each layer is usually narrower than the one below (the pavement “boxes in”). Take the width of each layer from the typical cross-section, not a single carriageway width. Add shoulder widths, and superelevation widening on curves.
Bituminous treatments
- Prime coat — over the base course, ~0.8–1.5 L/m². Area = base course area.
- Tack coat — between asphalt layers and against existing surfaces, ~0.2–0.5 L/m².
Compaction and bulking
Aggregate layers are specified as compacted thickness. Order loose material at compacted volume × a bulking/compaction factor (1.1–1.25 depending on material and the difference between delivered density and in-place density).
Also in the pavement BOQ
Kerb and gutter (linear), edge drains, pavement markings, road studs, signage, and any geotextile or geogrid separation layer.
EngEst Pro’s Civil Calculator takes off pavement layer by layer from your typical section and length — sub-base, base, asphalt by tonne, prime and tack coats — with compaction factors applied for the material order.
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