Asphalt Milling

Asphalt Milling is a useful tool to have control and the ability to change surfaces. Using a method that grinds the asphalt, our specialist machinery can work to a range of needs, grinding all the way to the foundation or simply resurfacing to a smooth level.

What is Asphalt Milling?
Asphalt milling is the removal of at least some of the surface of a paved area. It can be used as an alternative to repaving over an existing surface by smoothing the area just enough to bring the surface to a flat level or can be a full-scale removal that goes deep into the foundations. It can be useful dealing with issues such as solving problems of loose aggregate, or when defects appear that make the surface uneven. This includes sags, swells, bumps and dips. It is useful for controlling levels of roads and can be used to control or change it.  This may be necessary for specific structures such as manholes, overhead clearances and curb reveals. It can also add in a slope for grade adjustments to ensure effective drainage.

An environmentally friendly method
One of the main reasons a road surface is milled is to recycle the asphalt. The recycled milling is commonly used for new pavements and is an excellent way to be environmentally friendly with our resources. During the milling process the existing material is ground into what becomes the aggregate, which is then mixed with cement and becomes the material for a new surface.

Types of milling
There are five main categories in asphalt milling. They are based on the purpose and detail of the process. The first category, known as Class I, is the removal of surface irregularities. The ground is milled to a point that is it completely releveled. Class II is the milling to a depth that is specified on planning documents at a uniform level. Class III is the same but with an added cross slope. Class IV mills down to the full depth- all the way to the subgrade or base. The final category is Class V, which is categorized as when at different locations the depths are milled to different levels. Our team will assess your property fully and be clear with what works best for the requirement and your wishes.

Machinery
As your local experts, we have a whole range of specialist construction equipment to complete these tasks to a high standard. The milling machines grind the surface of the road with a large rotating drum. Inside the drum are scrolls which move the ground asphalt to the centre and are then removed. There are also cutters on the drum which are heavy duty carbide cutters. Most milling machines have the drum rotating one direction while the drive wheel goes the opposite way. With front loading conveyor belts our equipment keeps the area safe and clear of debris. In order to control depth, we use lasers, string lines, or other methods to be accurate and precise.