Paving Techniques
Overlay: This method involves placing a new layer of hot mix asphalt over the existing pavement. It is a cost-effective technique that provides a smooth and durable surface. Overlays can help restore ride quality, improve skid resistance, and extend the life of the pavement. They are suitable for moderately damaged roads with structurally sound bases.
Mill and Overlay: In this approach, the top layer of the existing pavement is milled off before applying a new overlay. Milling helps remove surface irregularities, improves drainage, and ensures proper bonding between the old and new layers. It is effective for addressing issues like rutting, cracking, and unevenness. Mill and overlay offers the benefits of both resurfacing and leveling the road surface.
Chip Seal: Conventional chip seal involves the application of a layer of liquid asphalt emulsion to the existing pavement surface, followed by the placement of aggregate (chips) over the emulsion. The chips are then rolled and compacted into the asphalt to create a sealed surface. Conventional chip seal provides several benefits, such as waterproofing the pavement, sealing cracks, and enhancing skid resistance. It is a cost-effective pavement maintenance technique used to extend the life of roads with low to moderate traffic volumes.
Rubberized chip seal is a variation of conventional chip seal that incorporates crumb rubber derived from recycled tires into the asphalt emulsion. The rubber particles help seal cracks and create a more elastic and resilient surface that can withstand traffic loads and temperature variations.
Microsurfacing: Microsurfacing is a thin layer (around 10-15 mm) of polymer-modified asphalt emulsion mixed with aggregate, mineral fillers, and additives. It is applied to the pavement to seal cracks, improve surface texture, and extend the pavement life. Microsurfacing is quick to apply and cures rapidly, allowing for minimal disruption to traffic.
Cape Seal: Cape seal involves the application of a conventional chip seal followed by a microsurfacing layer. The application of a microsurfacing layer is used to seal the surface and provide a smooth finish. Cape seal is particularly effective for pavements with moderate cracking and surface distresses.