MacPave membrane offers the opportunity to reduce the adverse effects of water penetration through cracks in the asphalt overlay, often the result of reflective cracking from a deteriorating subbase. By inhibiting the formation of cracks and crevices, MacPave can extend the lifetime of a highway by a factor of 3 or 4 before new paving is required and greatly lowers the need for interim crack filling. Compounded by inadequate maintenance, increased traffic and loads have led in recent years to serious deterioration in road surface quality in many places in the world. Climatic phenomena, particularly rainfall, place heavy strains on roads, especially neglected roads, resulting in cracking, potholes and other irregularities - the effect of which is additional vehicle wear-and-tear and dangerous driving conditions.
The economics of MacPave installation are highly favorable.
Worldwide experience with MacPave under all kinds of conditions has given us great confidence in the effectivness of our product (provided it is properly installed).
MacPave membrane is glued to the road surface which must be clean and dry with tackcoat AC-20 (U.S.) or B-85 (Europe), applied at approximately 0.15 gal./yd² (0.70 l./m²). The MacPave is rolled on to the hot bitumen and allowed to cool down. The surface facing oncoming traffic must be firmly attached to the surface. The minimum width of the tack application must be such that the tack extends a maximum of 2 in. (50 mm.) on either side of the MacPave membrane. As soon as the tack has cooled enough to lose its stickiness, the road can be opened to traffic. Final paving should be completed within 1 week.
In freezing conditions, however, MacPave should be overlaid as early as possible (46 - 58 hours) and must be placed so that at least 6 in. (15 cm) of the membrane extends beyond the edges of the crack, joint or distressed area - whether on asphalt or concrete.
Surface cracks or joints less than 1-3/8" (33 mm.) need not be cleaned or filled. Surface cracks or joints greater than 2-1/8" (55 mm.) should be cleaned, filled with hot-mix asphalt and compacted up to the level of the distrssed area. The installation of MacPave at temperatures below 40°F (5°C) is not recommended. The working range of installed MacPave to prevent reflective cracking is from 49°F (-45°C) to 122°F (55°C).
