1.3.3.Subbase Course
The subbase course is between the base course and the subgrade. It functions
primarily as structural support but it can also:
1.Minimize the intrusion of fines from the subgrade into the pavement structure.
2.Improve drainage.
3.Minimize frost action damage.
4.Provide a working platform for construction.
The subbase generally consists of lower quality materials than the base course but better than the subgrade soils. A subbase course is not always needed or used. For example, a pavement constructed over a high quality, stiff subgrade may not need the additional features offered by a subbase course so it may be omitted from design. However, a pavement constructed over a low quality soil such as a swelling clay may require the additional load distribution characteristic that a subbase course can offer. In this scenario the subbase course may consist of high quality fill used to replace poor quality subgrade (over excavation)