JOHN GREANEY
Paving Perfect Asphalt Joints : Best Practices for Longevity and Quality
JOHN GREANEY
FEATURE
A sphalt pavement is a popular choice for parking lots due to its durability and cost-effectiveness , and correctly paving asphalt joints is crucial for durability , longevity and overall quality of asphalt projects . Improperly constructed joints are often the primary source of pavement failures , leading to costly repairs and shortened lifespan of your asphalt project . In this article , I will go over best practices for paving asphalt joints , ensuring a seamless , durable and long-lasting surface . There are primarily two types of joints : longitudinal and transverse . Longitudinal joints run parallel to the direction of paving , whereas transverse joints are perpendicular . The quality of these joints is crucial as they are often the weakest points in the pavement .
Best Practices for Paving Asphalt Joints
Effective joint construction starts with thorough planning , knowing cold joints versus hot joints , keeping your eye on the clock in between loads as mix temperature will play a huge role with bonding . Ensure the surface to be paved is clean , dry and free of debris . Proper surface preparation is critical to ensure good bonding between the new and existing asphalt layers . When paving operations are interrupted , the existing asphalt should be saw-cut to create a vertical face . This ensures a straight , clean edge , which is essential for a tight joint , and don ’ t forget the tack . Apply a tack coat to the vertical face of the saw-cut joint . The tack coat promotes adhesion between the old and new asphalt layers , minimizing the potential for water infiltration and joint separation . In some cases , particularly in colder climates , preheating the existing asphalt edge can enhance bonding . The new asphalt should slightly overlap the saw-cut edge . This overlap is then compacted , ensuring the new material bonds well with the old , creating a seamless transition . Just like paving a cold longitudinal joint , keep in mind in general for every one inch of material put down , it will compact one-quarter inch . Adequate compaction is crucial , using a vibratory roller to ensure a dense and durable joint .
When paving is interrupted and the previous lane cools , a cold joint will form . To ensure a good bond , the edge of the cold joint should be treated with a tack coat or joint adhesive before paving the adjacent lane , same as above transvers Joint . We are going to run our endgates down , creating a nice straight edge for our first pass or lane . When matching the joint , for one inch of material put down , it will compact one-quarter inch and you will want to overlap one to two inches .
Endgate down
Cold joint before compaction Cold joint after compaction
Prep and Tacking Cold Joint on Longitude & Transverse Joints
When compacting the first lane for cold joints using a steel drum roller , you will want to overhang the drum six inches off the unsupported edge in efforts to compact vertically versus pushing the mix wider or away from the joint . Rolling should be done from the hot side toward the cold side on second lane locking in the joint . Always roll low side to high , and be aware of the crown in the road as you do not want to see daylight under both sides of the drum . Paving lanes simultaneously or in quick succession while the adjacent lane is still hot ensuring optimal bonding known as hot joints is a method that provides a better bond , and is preferred whenever possible as you are matching the joint while the mix is still hot . Monitor the temperature of the asphalt mix closely
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