Micro Surfacing- What is It?
March 31, 2023
Posted on: March 31, 2023 - 10:27am
The City of Bunnell has contracted with Asphalt Paving Systems, Inc. to apply high performance micro surfacing on qualifying roadways. High performance micro surfacing consists of granite aggregate and polymerized asphalt emulsion that acts as a protective layer for the underlying asphalt pavement. The finish will be highly durable and aesthetically attractive.
Unfortunately, not all roads are candidates for micro surfacing; specific conditions need to exist for micro surfacing to work. There may have been areas or streets that were planned for this project during budget preparation, but when the time comes to prepare and reassess for the project to start, that area may have become too damaged to qualify for micro surfacing any more (Deen Rd is an example of this situation).
*Micro Surfacing
Micro Surfacing is the most effective pavement preservation technique used on roads that have started to show signs of aging, cracking, oxidation, and other minor distressing.
By preparing the existing asphalt with crack seal and/or necessary base repairs, road owners can dramatically reduce reflective cracking and eliminate base failures caused by superficial moisture intrusion.
This powerful pavement management tool gives road owners the ability to maintain their existing pavements at a higher level of service, for a longer period of time, at a lower cost!
Life Extension:
Single Application 5-8 years
Double Application 6-10 years
The Infrastructure Department is looking into the process of Full Depth Reclamation for future projects where the streets are too damaged for micro surfacing.
*Full Depth Reclamation
Roadways that show signs of significant asphalt distress and substantial base failure often require Full Depth Reclamation (FDR). The FDR process involves pulverizing the entire asphaltic surface and underlying base materials while injecting the appropriate additive(s) to a depth of 8-12 inches.
FDR is a high production, low impact, low-cost reconstruction method that allows road owners to recycle existing materials, eliminate disposal costs, improve ride quality, increase structural strengths, and reduce the agency’s carbon footprint.
Life Extension: 10-15 years
*Micro surfacing and FDR information provided by Asphalt Paving Systems.
If you have questions, please contact the Infrastructure Department at 386-437-7515.