In order to execute a successful asphalt paving project, there must be strategic planning, sound preparation, and a great understanding of what is needed to get the job done right. Project management is key for the entire process and the most critical step in that process is making sure you have the necessary equipment. Renting an asphalt paver is an efficient and cost-effective method for getting the job done right. But what are the benefits to renting and how to does it provide an advantage in project management?
Benefits of renting an asphalt paver
Successful project management often hinges on identifying efficiencies and maximizing the resources at your disposal. The strategy of renting equipment can be very effective for many construction related projects including paving. Before kicking off a new job, ask yourself some of these questions.
What is the scope of my project?
Renting an asphalt paver makes the most sense for short-term projects with a tighter overall scope. If you feel these short-term type jobs will be less frequent, it is important to not have expensive equipment such as an asphalt paver sitting and collecting dust. Rental allows you to be more efficient with the tools needed for any job.
What equipment is readily available to me?
If you need to expand your inventory on a temporary basis or if you are searching for an emergency replacement, renting an asphalt paver will provide the biggest bang for your buck.
Am I restricted by my budget?
By renting an asphalt paver or any of our other types of equipment, you only pay for the equipment you need when it is in use and can reduce costs relating to housing and maintaining a vaster inventory.
In summary, you will have a competitive advantage by having a source for temporary equipment when you are looking to keep costs low and increase productivity. Whatever your paving or road work project may be, renting an asphalt paver is often the best solution for these reasons.
Best Practices when operating an asphalt paver rental
Before moving forward with your asphalt paver rental, it is important to know the best practices and safety guidelines when operating.
Setting up the paver
An important first step when operating an asphalt paver rental is to inspect the equipment and parts to look for any issues that could affect safety before the job begins. Before starting the asphalt paver up, check all the fluid levels and once the equipment is running, check the gauges. Apply a release agent or coating solution to components that will meet asphalt throughout the project, to help prevent it from sticking to metal parts. Set up the screed to the project specific specs – width, mat thickness, crown, or slope – and preheat the screed to prevent mat sticking. A temperature range of 225ºF to 275ºF is normally applied.
Head of material
The head of material is paving mix that lies directly in front and covers the width of the screed. If this fluctuates during paving, it can be very difficult to produce a level and smooth pavement surface. The correct head of material alignment should be constant across the full width of the screed. Many asphalt pavers that are available for rental come equipped with feed systems that automatically determine the correct delivery and flow of material in front of the screed to ensure smooth and consistent paving.
Manage Speed and Compaction
Take into account the output and volume of the mixing plant, crew skill level and compaction rates, when establishing your asphalt paver rentals paving speed. Inconsistent pavement speeds can often result in uneven pavement and a poor finished product. Some rentals will come equipped with speed limiters to help maintain a steady speed throughout the job.
Compaction best practices will preserve asphalt integrity and delay the need for road maintenance. Without proper compaction or densification, the finished roadway won’t provide sufficient support needed for structures or traffic loads, and material will eventually break down. Three key factors contribute to quality compaction: mat temperature, mat depth or thickness and compactor rolling patterns. Compaction is equally as important as pace and speed to the success of a paving project. If the compaction is done incorrectly the integrity of the road will be compromised it will not be able to support heavy load barring traffic and the elements.
Frequently asked questions
How thin can asphalt be laid?
The recommended best practice for asphalt overlay depth is two inches. If the asphalt is laid too thin it won’t properly bond to the surface and will results in cracking.
What is the best time of year to pave?
The warmer seasons such as summer and spring are ideal for putting your asphalt paver rental to use. If you are doing this work in lower temperatures, you can greatly affect the material’s stability.
What is the best base for asphalt?
A strong base is the starting point for durable pavement. Crushed angular gravel is often recommended as a best base for many paving projects.
Rent an asphalt paver and get the right tool to get the job done right. Contact your local, ARA-affiliated, rental store for information on available rental products and services to meet your projects’ needs. To locate the rental store nearest you, use the Rental Store Quick Locator above.
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