Are you tired of dealing with cracked and deteriorating roads? Do you long for a smooth, durable surface that can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions? If so, then micro surfacing might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Micro surfacing is a cost-effective pavement preservation technique that can extend the lifespan of roads and improve their overall performance. This article will explore micro surfacing, how it works, and its benefits for road users and municipalities.
What is Micro Surfacing?
Micro Surfacing is a pavement surface treatment that combines hot asphalt emulsion, aggregate, and additives to form a thin material layer over existing pavement. It is generally applied in a thickness of 1.5 to 2 inches and is used to correct deficiencies in the existing pavement surface, such as raveling, rutting, cracking, etc. The new layer improves the existing pavement’s skid resistance and waterproofing characteristics, extending its life to 5-7 years.
Unlike traditional asphalt surface treatments, micro-surfacing does not require pre-treatment of the existing pavement surface before application. This makes it ideal for use in areas with limited access or rugged terrain, as there is no need to perform milling operations before applying the treatment. Additionally, Micro Surfacing uses a water-based emulsion instead of oil-based asphalt, reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional asphalt treatments.
Micro-surfacing is an ideal solution for roads requiring quick and cost-effective treatment. It can also be an economical alternative to resurfacing or reconstructing roads with severe surface damage. The thin material layer adds strength and stability to the existing pavement, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
What is Micro Surfacing Used For?
Micro-surfacing asphalt is a versatile pavement preservation technique that is used for a variety of purposes. It is primarily used to restore the condition of road surfaces that have suffered from wear and tear over time. The treatment helps to fill in cracks, smooth out rough patches, and improve the overall appearance of the pavement.
Benefits of Using Micro Surfacing
Micro surfacing asphalt is a cost-effective and efficient road maintenance method with many benefits. Whether it’s surface restoration, surface buildup, or pavement preservation, micro surfacing is a valuable solution for enhancing the longevity and performance of road surfaces.
1. Improved Skid Resistance: It adds a layer of material over the existing pavement, increasing its skid resistance properties, thus making it safer for motorists.
2. Increased Longevity: This process helps to extend the life of the existing road surface up to 5-7 years by providing additional strength and stability to the pavement.
3 . Cost-Effective: Micro-surfacing is a cost-effective solution for restoring road surfaces due to its quick installation time and low material costs.
4. Minimal Environmental Impact: Micro surfacing uses an asphalt emulsion of water instead of oil, making it an environmentally friendly pavement preservation technique.
5. Quick Installation Time: Since micro-surfacing does not require any pre-treatment of the existing pavement surface, it can be applied quickly and efficiently.
The Process of Applying Micro Surfacing
Micro surfacing involves several steps to ensure a successful and durable pavement surface treatment. It requires specialized equipment and skilled professionals to achieve the desired results. Here is an overview of the process:
1. Surface Preparation: The first step in applying micro-surfacing is to prepare the existing pavement surface. This involves cleaning the surface of any debris, loose material, or vegetation. Any potholes or cracks are also repaired, and the pavement is swept to ensure a clean and smooth surface for the micro surfacing application.
2. Application of Tack Coat: A thin tack coat or asphalt emulsion is sprayed on the prepared surface before the micro surfacing material is applied. This tack coat is a bonding agent, ensuring proper adhesion between the existing pavement and the micro surfacing material.
3. Mixing the Micro Surfacing Material: The micro-surfacing material is created by combining a mixture of asphalt emulsion, mineral filler, quality aggregates, and chemical additives. These components are mixed in a specialized machine to create a consistent and uniform mixture.
4. Application of Micro Surfacing: Once the micro-surfacing material is prepared, it is applied to the prepared surface using a specialized machine known as a micro surfacing paver. This machine spreads the mixture evenly across the pavement surface, creating a uniform and smooth layer.
5. Compaction and Finishing: After the micro-surfacing material is applied, it is compacted using a compactor. This compaction process ensures the proper bonding and compaction of the material to the existing pavement surface. The surface is then smoothed and finished using a screed or a broom to create a visually appealing and functional pavement surface.
6. Curing and Return to Traffic: The pavement surface needs time to cure and harden once the micro surfacing application is complete. This curing period can vary depending on the weather conditions and the specific product used. After the curing period, the pavement is ready for traffic to return to the treated area.
Applying micro-surfacing is a cost-effective and efficient way to extend the service life of pavements and improve their overall durability. Following established guidelines and using high-quality materials, micro surfacing can provide long-lasting protection and enhanced performance for various road surfaces. With its quick application process and minimal disruption to traffic flow, micro surfacing is preferred for pavement maintenance and restoration.
Saguaro Asphalt’s micro-surfacing services are an efficient and cost-effective solution for extending the service life of pavements and improving their overall durability. With its quick application process and minimal environmental impact, this pavement preservation technique can provide long-lasting protection and enhanced performance for any road surface. We encourage you to take advantage of Saguaro Asphalt’s micro surfacing services to ensure that your pavement lasts for years.
