When approaching any project, all professional pavers have a few choices to make. One of those choices is between the various types of asphalt pavers. There are a variety of different brands and models, but everything ultimately comes down to two general categories. The two types of asphalt pavers are tracked and wheeled. This week we are exploring the differences and similarities between the two categories. Read on to learn about what types of asphalt pavers suit your paving project.
Before We Begin
Most contractors have already made up their mind about which type of paving machine they prefer. As a home or business owner, you may not have a direct say over what type of machine a paving company uses on your property. However, a good paving contractor should be ready and willing to answer questions about their decisions. This article is not meant to be a comprehensive guide, only a general introduction.
Wheeled Pavers
Pros
The biggest positive for wheeled pavers is their price. They are much cheaper than tracked pavers. Additionally, they are lower maintenance, which means lesser maintenance cost. Another cost-saving measure is that wheeled pavers cost less to run on a specific site.
In addition to lower prices, the wheeled pavers travel a bit faster than tracked pavers do. Their speed is approximately 10 to 15 miles per hour.
Cons
Wheels do not provide nearly the same amount of traction as tracked pavers. This very much limits the work that wheeled pavers can actually complete.
Ideal For
Wheeled pavers are ideal for paving over the top of an existing surface. The wheels function perfectly on the portion of the project that is already done.
Tracked Pavers
It is important to note that tracked pavers used to use steel tracks. However, more modern tracked pavers use rubber tracks. The rubber tracks typically provide the best of both worlds for contractors, and operate in conditions suited for both wheeled pavers and steel tracks.
Pros
Tracked pavers work in a wider set of conditions than wheeled pavers do. The tracks work for nearly every single paving condition. Additionally, tracks handle wider swaths of paving better than wheeled pavers. This is especially important during commercial jobs, where a lot of area is being paved at once.
Cons
Price is a bit of a con for tracked pavers. They cost approximately 10% more than wheeled pavers do, and have higher initial operation costs. Additionally, the tracked pavers have a highly complicated undercarriage that sometimes causes issues.
Tracked pavers usually move a little slower than wheeled pavers, maxing out at 10 miles per hour.
Ideal For
Tracked pavers are ideal for new construction sites. The rubber tracts provide both grip and flotation that wheels cannot compete with. This is absolutely essential on the soft ground of new construction.