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Ultra-Thin Lift Overlay

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ultra thin lift overlay

Learn about the benefits of Ultra-Thin Lift Overlay Treatments

Applying a fresh coat of paint is a simple, cost-effective way to repair minor aesthetic issues on a house. Ultra-thin lift overlays provide a similar benefit for roads. Ultra-thin lift overlays address functional problems as part of pavement preservation, as opposed to increasing the overall strength of a pavement structure. This treatment is recognized as surface mixes of 1.0” or less compacted thickness used as part of a simple overlay or as part of a mill and fill operation.

Compared to traditional worst-first approaches, ultra-thin lift overlays allow for an increase in the life span of any type of roadway by roughly 8-10 years for a low life-cycle cost. Ultra-thin lift overlays can also be recycled, restore skid resistance and be quickly applied to provide a quiet, smooth roadway that can handle heavy traffic. By treating minor distresses, the cost of road upkeep is far lower than waiting until a major rehabilitation is needed.

If unsealed cracks larger than a ¼” or ruts greater than a ½” are present, an ultra-thin lift overlay is not sufficient and other treatments may be needed.

Condition Level

2

PCI

35-50

Avg Life Extension in Years

8-10

Addressed Issues

  • Oxidation 
  • Moderate cracking 
  • Raveling 
  • Loss of friction

Disclaimer

The information provided is a guide and is not intended to reflect a preference, approval or endorsement of any product.

Best Practices

  • Use a prepared mix design.
  • Clean pavement prior to beginning operation.
  • Seal cracks larger than ¼”.
  • Apply proper bond coat.
  • Ensure the mix is at a proper temperature.
  • Establish and follow roller pattern.
  • Allow the mat to cool prior to returning traffic to the road.
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Pavement Preservation Success

Success Story: Ultra-Thin Lift Overlay

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Problem: Surface cracking
Solution: Ultra-thin lift overlay

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) determined that a stretch of State Route 63 in Claiborne County had become severely distressed. As a means of standardizing repairs, TDOT employs the Pavement Quality Index (PQI) to determine road quality. The scale runs from 0 to 5, with 5 being the highest stage of road quality. A length of 4.4 miles had fallen below the 3.7 threshold on the PQI, indicating a need for repair.

Find the Right Treatment

Preserving roads shouldn’t cause distress. Applying the right treatment at the right time to the right pavement can slow decay and save more roads.
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