APE September 2024 | Page 20

FEATURE
Shoe box tools make it easy to apply mastic on meandering wide cracks .
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BEFORE and around obstacles . Ironing wands are heated in a side chamber on the melter and used to smooth out imperfections as needed . An applicator cart with a propane burner , hand agitator and built-in shoe can be used to apply several gallons of material in areas inaccessible to a full-size melter . For long , linear cracks like a failed longitudinal joint , the best approach is towing a narrow drag box along the crack . Some melters allow configuring the drag box outside the machine ’ s wheel path , which allows for closing only one lane of traffic and minimizes the crew ’ s exposure to vehicles . For wide distresses like wheel path fatigue and rutting , a large drag box is towed behind the melter , leaving an even coat of mastic that fills in depressions and levels the surface . An applicator cart is often the most efficient tool for meandering cracks because it combines maneuverability and volume . Alternatively , a shoe box and bucket can be used on small jobs . Experiment with each approach to find the one that works best for you . Adding new equipment to your setup is an investment , but there is an easy on-ramp for those who want to try before they buy . Renting a mastic melter and the associated tools pays for itself by saving you time and money compared with other repair methods . Once you ’ ve experimented with mastic application , you can evaluate whether the added capability is worth your investment . Like any innovative tool , hot-applied mastic is a versatile option that simply makes the job easier . Explore the world of mastic repairs and see how it can help you deal with problem areas once and for all .
If you would like more information on mastic repairs , Crafco is happy to help answer any questions . You can reach out to Crafco at info @ crafco . com .
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