We have talked about the types of machinery and tools we use in all of our asphalt jobs before, a rundown list of the different items in our proverbial toolbelt. This time on the Sunrise Asphalt blog we wanted to take a beat to dive deep into one of those tools – in this case, the humble asphalt roller. If you’ve ever wondered how they work, what they cost, or why they’re important then this blog is for you! Let’s use the ol’ “Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How” technique to cover all the bases!
Asphalt Rollers – What Are They?
Alright this one is pretty simple, asphalt rollers are exactly what they sound like – they roll asphalt! Sometimes called a road roller, an asphalt roller is a vehicle used for compacting asphalt when building roads. Similar equipment is also used at landfills or in agriculture. When you think of a ‘steamroller’ you’re likely thinking of an asphalt roller in actuality.
How Do They Work?
Asphalt rollers work on a pretty simple principle – exerting pressure across a large area equally. To do that the big drum on the front of the vehicle puts a ton of pressure spread across the width of the asphalt surface, compacting it to equal depth and consistency.
Why Are They Important?
Without using an asphalt roller, roads wouldn’t be as sturdy as they are. Asphalt isn’t the only piece of the road, it’s the mix between asphalt and aggregate stone. If the two aren’t compacted together then the asphalt would simply cure and harden in a thin layer and the aggregate would be loose beneath it. The compacting helps the asphalt and aggregate bind together and presses it into a sturdier surface.
When Was It Invented?
Wait for what? You want to know when they were invented? Well alright. Asphalt rollers were less invented and more evolved from earlier equipment. Asphalt rollers as they are now were invented in the middle of the 20th century, but they take their cue from older farm implements that were pulled behind horses to compact soil etc.
Who Can Use One?
Who can use an asphalt roller? Professional asphalt installers are the best bet to use them, but for those who know what they’re doing, they can be rented from equipment rental companies. Using heavy machinery without the proper know-how is a surefire way to end up with damages, so trust an expert!
Where To Use One?
Asphalt rollers should be used for paving or repaving stretches of asphalt. Whether that’s in roads, driveways, parking lots, or anywhere else asphalt surfaces are being paved.
Have more questions about asphalt rollers? Need an expert with one to come out to your home or business and compact some asphalt? Look no further. Here at Sunrise Asphalt, we’ve been paving the way for Tucson for over 40 years! Give us a call or fill out our form for a free estimate on your asphalt job.
No matter the job, the owner is always on site – guaranteeing the highest quality work!
