Pavement Maintenance & Reconstruction May 2017

PCTC Updates NIOSH Sealer Study

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF NATIONAL PAVEMENT EXPO

MAINTENANCE & RECONSTRUCTION MAY 2017

How M & M Construction THRIVES in a Small, Short-season Market

Striping

6

Equipment Buying Tips to IMPROVE Sealcoating ROI

FLEXIBILITY Helps Apply-A-Line Stripe an Hawaii National Park Advanced Pavement Marking Meets the CHALLENGES of Racetrack Work

6

“Safety Nets” to Improve Worker Productivity

Is There a Market Shift to Non-CDL Sweepers?

5

Common Paving Mistakes – And How to Avoid Them

How to Know When It’s › › › www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Time to Outsource Work

4/24/17 2:55 PM

STOP

THE PLACE TO GO FOR PAVEMENT PROS

One STOP Shop is the place to go GemSeal’s five new retail stores and nine manufacturing facilities have everything you need to complete your job in just one trip – products, equipment, and professional advice.

It is our promise to provide everything you need to get the job done!

Visit a GemSeal One Stop Shop near you and see why it’s The Place to Go for Pavement Pros.™

Our newest GemSeal One Stop Shop locations: Rosedale, MD | 443-231-0625 Worcester, MA | 508-419-7710 Norcross, GA | 770-415-1362 Franklin Park, IL | 847-678-6220 Oklahoma City | 405-200-1992

gemsealproducts.com • 866-264-8273 • Pavement is Our Passion!® ForConstructionPros.com/10073088

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What’s Inside May 2017

24 How to Thrive in a

Small, Short-season Market

M & M Construction relies on hands-on control, equipment use, year-round sales effort.

38 Striping – and More –

for Harley-Davidson

D.E. Gemmill crackseals, sealcoats and stripes Harley-Davidson facility in seven days.

44 6 Tips to Improve

your Sealcoating ROI

A focus on your equipment will help improve your bottom line.

46 Contractors’ Choice:

Is There a Market Shift for Non-CDL Sweepers?

PAVEMENT

In an industry where finding skilled workers is a challenge, sweeper manufacturers are responding with new machines that are smaller and legal to operate without a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

FEATURES 14

How to Stripe a National Park

Apply-A-Line’s flexibility enables it to restripe Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park without disrupting visitors.

18

How Paint Testing Led to Racetrack Striping

Advanced Pavement Marking’s work with Kelly-Creswell and Drew Paints opens new niche.

ON THE COVER The LineLazer ES 1000 is powered by a high-output battery, eliminating engine noise, vibration or fumes and allowing it to be used safely indoors while having the power and performance needed for outdoor jobs. Photo courtesy of Graco Inc. Minneapolis, MN.

Vol. 32, No. 4 May 2017

Published and copyrighted 2017 by AC Business Media Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.

PAVEMENT

Subscription policy: Individual subscriptions are available without charge in the U.S. only to pavement maintenance contractors, producers and government employees involved in paving or pavement maintenance; dealers, and distributors of pavement maintenance equipment or materials; and others with similar business activities. Complete the subscription form at www. forconstructionpros.com or use your company letterhead giving all the information requested. Publisher reserves the right to reject nonqualified subscribers. One year subscriptions for nonqualified individuals: $35.00 U.S.A., $60.00 Canada and Mexico, and $85.00 all other countries (payable in U.S. funds, drawn on U.S. bank). Single copies available (prepaid only) $10.00 each (U.S., Canada & Mexico), $15.00 each (International). Pavement Maintenance & Reconstruction (ISSN 1098-5875), is published eight times per year: January, February, March/April, May, June/July, August/ September, October/November, December by AC Business Media Inc., 201 N. Main St., Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI and additional entry offices.

POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to Pavement, PO Box 3605, Northbrook, IL 60065-3605. Printed in the USA. Canada Post PM40612608. Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Pavement Maintenance & Reconstruction, PO Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2.

PAVEMENT MAINTENANCE & RECONSTRUCTION is proudly supported by these associations:

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 3

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What’s Inside May 2017

DEPARTMENTS 6

Editorial

8

Hot Mix

Sealcoating Growth – and Your Role in It

The Latest News in the Industry

10 Just In

Select New Products and Upgrades 12 NPE Buzz

Manufacturers Revealed New Products and Upgrades at NPE 2017 in Nashville

28 Pavement Profit Center 50 Classified

12

59

Ads

59 On the Job

How to Avoid 5 Common Asphalt Paving Mistakes 60 Your Business Matters

How to Know When You Should Outsource 61 NAPSA Report

Non-CDL Sweepers

63

61

61 WSA Update

Sweeper Roundup in September 62 PCTC Dispatch

NIOSH Project Update 63 Technology Update

Can Robots Help Repair Roads?

64 Contractor Snapshot

Elite Asphalt Maintenance Defines its Niche by Relying on Asphalt-based Sealers

60

65 Index 66 Tailgate Talk

6 “Safety Nets” to Improve Worker Produtivity

64

4 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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WHAT’S BEHIND AN ELGIN? 100 YEARS OF ALL-AROUND DEPENDABILITY.

AN INDUSTRY LEADER PROVIDING DIVERSE SOLUTIONS. At Elgin, we’re focused on delivering results for every application. So focused, in fact, that we’ve been hard at work perfecting our machines for over 100 years. Elgin is proud to offer a full line of sweepers, backed by over a century of know-how to help you find the best machine for the job. We extend our confidence and expertise to every customer, selling and servicing our sweepers through the world’s largest dealer network. Now that’s dependability.

To learn more about our full line of Elgin sweepers Call 847.741.5370 or visit elginsweeper.com. ©2016 Elgin Sweeper ForConstructionPros.com/10072859

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Editorial Allan Heydorn, Editor

Your Role in Sealer Growth A JUST-RELEASED Transparency Market Research report using 2015 figures estimates that the North American sealcoating market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.7% from 2016 – 2024, with overall value increasing from $405.7 million in 2016 to $609.3 million in 2024.

Pretty good news for anyone in or thinking of getting into the sealcoating business.

The report notes growth will be driven by demand for sealer on driveways and parking lots, which it reports accounted for more than 80% of the use of

sealer in 2015. The report notes that “bitumen and asphaltbased sealers” were the leading revenue generators in 2015 and says use of acrylic sealers will expand at a “significant pace” through 2024.

And contractors have a role to play in this. Though the report doesn’t address it, continued education of the consumer by the sealcoating pro will go a long way toward making sure these projections come true – or get even better. Here are some suggestions to help you out: 1. Accurately portray your products. Don’t oversell and don’t misrepresent (yours or others).

2. Apply material per manufacturers’ specs. Properly applied sealer protects pavement longer and in so doing improves the image of the contractor and the industry.

3. Warranty your work.

In this age of “everything is returnable” you establish a comfort level with your customer when you stand behind the product and stand up for the industry.

4. Act like a pro. Use a standard contract, show up on time, have your crew look like a team, clean your equipment, leave behind a clean jobsite.

5. Invest in training; your customers will notice it.

6. Market your brand.

Because you’re not trying to get away with anything, you should loudly make sure people know you exist and what you do.

These are just a few things you can do to enhance the growth of the industry – and they’ll have the added benefit of enhancing your business and protecting you from the fly-by-night pariahs that plague the industry year after year.

ForConstructionPros.com/10074674

6 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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ForConstructionPros.com/10835557

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Hot Mix

Soundcore Buys Sweeping Corp. of America, Sky Sweeping Soundcore Capital Partners, a New York-based private equity firm that invests in lower middle-market businesses, announced it has acquired, in partnership with management, Sweeping Corporation of America, Inc. Soundcore said it had simultaneously closed on Sweeping Corp.’s sister company, Sani-Tech JetVac Services. And in April Soundcore announced Sweeping Corporation of America completed the acquisition of Sky Sweeping. Terms of the transactions were not disclosed.

Headquartered in Nashville, TN, Sweeping Corp. of America provides street sweeping, catch basin cleaning & ancillary services to the southeastern United States. With eight facilities throughout Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Kentucky, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana, Sweeping Corp. of America maintains more than 25,000 miles of roadways and parking lots each month for states, municipalities, airports, as well as industrial, residential and commercial facilities.

“After founding this business 30 years ago, I am so grateful to reflect on the success we’ve achieved thus far, and I am excited for the future of the company as it enters a new era,” said Sweeping Corp. founder Tom Rice. “Finding the right partners, who act with integrity, respect and passion, was crucial for me in taking the next step. I am excited to see Sweeping Corp. continue to grow into a national leader in the street sweeping industry.”

Feliks Zarotsky, Soundcore managing partner, said “We spoke with many great companies before selecting Sweeping Corp. as our third platform as well as its first addon, Sani-Tech, both chosen for their strong operations and management.”

“We are extremely eager to join forces with both Sweeping Corp and Sani-Tech to build upon the strong success they have achieved to-date under the management of Tom Rice and his team,” said Jarrett

Turner, Soundcore managing partner. “The partnership solidifies our approach of pursuing healthy, need-to-have, buy-andbuild investments in highly-fragmented, niche markets.”

Acquiring Sky Sweeping Headquartered in Louisville, OH, Sky Sweeping provides parking lot, street and industrial sweeping as well as several ancillary services in Ohio, western Pennsylvania and southeastern Indiana.

“We have been privileged to partner with the talented Sky Sweeping team over the past few months and look forward to contributing to the future growth and continued success of the business over the years to come," said Chris Valerian, the CEO of Sweeping Corp.

Founded in 2015, Soundcore Capital Partners is a New York City-based private investment firm specializing in control equity investments and leveraged buyouts of lower middle-market businesses

headquartered in the United States or Canada. The firm said it partners with exceptional management teams and creates long-term value for investors through a combination of operational improvements, internal growth initiatives, and strategic acquisitions.

Soundcore primarily focuses on businesses with revenues that are recurring in nature and that are in fragmented industries with multiple acquisition roll-up opportunities.

The firm specializes in proprietary deal sourcing through industry relationships and investment brokers rather than traditional bank auction processes, and seeks businesses whose management team members and/or selling shareholders wish to have a meaningful ownership stake in the newly acquired enterprise. Since inception, Soundcore has acquired 14 companies.

Crafco Acquires Texas Location Crafco Inc., Chandler, AZ, has purchased the assets of Crafco Texas Inc., according to Don Brooks, president.

Brooks said the acquisition combines the assets of one of Crafco’s longstanding independent distributors, Crafco Texas Inc., to expand Crafco’s locations, sales and service to the Texas area. Effective April 1, Crafco will operate a Pavement Preservation Supply Center at 2103 Danbury St., San Antonio, TX. An additional location at 2413 Richland Ave., Farmers Branch, TX (Dallas) was expected to open approximately May 1, 2017.

Brooks said Bill Frerichs, president and previous owner of Crafco Texas, as well as his employees will be staying on with Crafco.

WSA Announces Sweeper Roundup World Sweeping Assocation (WSA) has announced it will host a Sweeper Roundup Sept. 15-17 in Kansas City, MO. The event, which will be open to all sweeper manufacturers and contractors, will feature a Sweeper Rodeo in addition to educational events. For details visit www. worldsweepingpros.com.

8 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Everything you need to get the job done.

Quality Products • Expertise • Equipment Sales & Rentals

A leading retailer for pavement maintenance and preservation.

Since 1984, PMSI has been your comprehensive source for expert project advice, quality pavement maintenance equipment and materials, supplies, equipment service and more.

We stock a large selection of products by premier brands such as Crafco, Graco, KM International and more.

Call, Click or Stop By. 888.300.7674 | ShopPMSI.com ©2017 Crafco, Inc. April A1272

ForConstructionPros.com/12102888

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Just In

Get fast, relevant product information in the Buyers Guide at ForConstructionPros.com 1

1

2

3

2

3

BVP 10/30 Plate Compactor

8515E Asphalt Paver

Autocar Cab-over Chassis

BOMAG Americas The new BOMAG BVP 10/30 compactor is designed for day-today use in soil and asphalt repair and maintenance compaction applications.

•• Weighs just over 100 lbs.

•• Compact design with 11.8 x 20-in. plate width and length •• Generates 2,250 lbs. centrifugal force at working speeds reaching 82 fpm •• Optional vulcolan mat for setting paving stones.

•• 2.8-hp Honda gas engine

VT LeeBoy The 8515E asphalt paver has a height of 68-in. for improved operator visibility to the front of the machine.

•• 74-hp Kubota Tier 4 final engine •• Enhance hydraulic system optimizes system performance •• Paving width: 8-ft. to 15-ft.

•• Legend 815 or Legend 815 heavy-duty electric screed •• Poly pad tracks or continuous rubber tracks •• Under auger material cut-off gates

Elgin Sweeper Company Elgin Sweeper has introduced an Autocar, LLC cab-over chassis option for the Elgin Broom Bear single-engine mechanical sweeper.

•• Chassis package exceeds maneuverability and visibility needs of municipal and contractor customers handling everything from heavy-duty construction debris sweeping to light street maintenance •• 136-in. wheel base •• Cummins ISL 9 diesel engine rated at 260 hp @ 2200 RPM, with 720 ft.-lb. of torque •• The chassis also features an Allison 3500 transmission and a two-speed rear axle

ForConstructionPros.com/12312002

ForConstructionPros.com/12313462

ForConstructionPros.com/12317965

MAGMA

M

SERIES

1 CRACK SEALER FOR

#

THE ENVIRONMENT:

PUBLIC WORKS:

YOUR CREW:

• Increased Heating Efficiency • Reduced Noise Levels • Better Fuel Economy

• Longer Pump Life • Digital Engine Management • Pavement Maintenance Productivity

• Auto Start • Ergonomic Wand • Lowest Loading Height

CIMLINE PAVEMENT

MAINTENANCE GROUP

MAGMA M-2

www.CIMLINEPMG.com

ForConstructionPros.com/10072434

10 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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TRUST LEEBOY AS DEPENDABLE AS YOUR DAY IS LONG You work hard—and for all the right reasons: pride, quality, reputation, prosperity. You expect your equipment to work as hard as you do, to be every bit as tough, productive and reliable as you are. You can afford nothing less.

We are LeeBoy. The name behind the world’s most dependable and productive commercial asphalt paving equipment. Because we understand what drives you and we deliver.

Productive, reliable equipment that generates increased revenue and profitability Equipment that’s easy to maintain and refuses to take a sick day Global support that’s driven by integrity and a passion for your success www.LeeBoy.com ForConstructionPros.com/10075155

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NPE Buzz: A Selection from NPE 2017 Exhibitors Hamm DV+ 70i VO-S Tandem Roller

Kasi Infrared Pro Heat Minute Man The Proheat Minuteman trailer system is a self-contained asphalt restoration system, ideal for permanently repairing all general asphalt defects including potholes, surface cracking, utility cuts, bird baths, man holes, etc.

•• 2-ton asphalt reclaimer, 48-sq.ft. infrared heater and roller ramp system •• Two hydraulic cylinders control up and down operation of the chamber •• Optional high-efficiency reclamation chamber with eight converters ForConstructionPros.com/10088840

The DV+ 70i with an operating weight of 7.7 tons is the first in a new series of rollers Hamm for North America. The line is expected to include a double vibration roller, an oscillation roller and a combo roller with vibratory drum front and pneumatic rear tires.

Seal-Rite SR-850 Extreme The SR-850 Extreme sealcoating unit features an extra-large front deck able to hold three blowers and a grazor.

•• 850-gal. steel tank with 7 gauge heads, 10 gauge sidewalls and reinforced tank ends •• Tongue with enough room to hold two 2-gal. pour pots and a 30-gal. melter •• Full sweep four paddle variable speed hydraulic tank agitation with 3/8in. rubber wipers ForConstructionPros.com/10853227

Star Inc. Triton Sealer Triton Next Generation Asphalt Pavement Sealer offers outstanding durability matched only by refined tar sealers •• Dries to an appealing dark charcoal color •• Better than AE sealers in resistance to fuel, salt and petrochemicals •• Can help extend your season in spring and fall •• Easy to use - handles like RTS and AE sealcoating ForConstructionPros.com/12278258

•• Intelligent drive control and pivot steering with four steering modes ForConstructionPros.com/12304964

Weiler TT500 Tack Trailer The TT500 features a 500-gal. oval shaped tank that allows for easier cleanout and recirculation of tack.

•• The 300,000 BTU burner is fueled with twin propane tanks •• 5.5 HP Honda engine powers 15 GPM direct-drive pump •• Tack is distributed through a 5-ft. 6-in. wand attached to a 50-ft. hose reel or the optional 6-ft. - 9-ft. spray bar with seven independently controlled nozzles

Graco LineLazer ES 1000 The LineLazer ES 1000 is powered by a high-output battery allowing it to be used safely indoors while having the power and performance needed for outdoor jobs.

•• No engine noise, vibration or fumes •• Deep Cycle 100AH AGM battery is designed for striping up to 20 gal. per charge.

•• On-board 12V charger to recharges battery •• 120V capacity / 230V in EMEA •• SmartControl pressure control system delivers consistent spray fan ForConstructionPros.com/12321949

Crafco Hot Air Lance The Hot Air Lance is used to dry and prepare pavement cracks, potholes and distressed pavement surfaces for repair

ForConstructionPros.com/12321972

Elgin Sweeper Front Debris Hose Designed for light to medium debris, including gravel, sand and cement, in both industrial and municipal applications, the optional debris hose is intended for hard-to-reach material accumulations.

•• Front debris hose option •• 6-in.-diameter and a 12-ft. reach •• Can be operated by a single operator and is stored onboard the sweeper •• Vacuum created by the standard fan on the sweeper ForConstructionPros. com/12253524

GemSeal Rapid Set Pavement Sealer Rapid Set is a polymer modified additive for use in both refined tar and asphalt emulsion pavement sealers that reduces dry time, improves sealer adhesion and increases durability.

•• Sealer dries blacker with improved strength and durability •• Greatly reduces curing time of applied sealer dependent on percentage used

• Featuring separate valves which control the mixture of fuel and compressed air at the point of combustion ForConstructionPros.com/12269099

ForConstructionPros.com/12270568

12 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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SealMaster Thermoplastic Traffic Marking Paint

Neal AutoTrim Sealcoating Baffle Attachment AutoTrim automatically cut-ins sealcoat materials on the go while keeping curbs and edges free of material.

•• Attaches to the front of Neal’s DA 350 Dual Applicator machine and can be retrofitted onto any truck-powered sealcoating unit •• When paired with Neal’s highpowered blower, contractors can perform sealcoat prep work as much as seven times faster than with traditional methods ForConstructionPros.com/12299341

Cold spray-applied thermoplastic featuring hot-applied thermoplastic performance •• Liquid Thermoplastic Traffic Marking Paint can be applied with standard airless spray equipment to asphalt, concrete or existing road markings that are adhering well to the pavement surface •• Unique patented cross linking technology provides durability normally associated with hot-melt thermoplastics and epoxies •• Meets and exceeds the performance requirements of Federal Specification TTP-1952E, Type III ForConstructionPros.com/12321966

Carlson CP100 II Commercial Paver The next generation of CP100, the Carlson CP100 II features the new, single-slide EZCSS electrically heated screed.

•• Accessibility with a one piece forwarding tilting hood, large side doors and access panel in the 9-ton, heavy-duty hopper •• Heavy-duty, highway-class wear components, including fully replaceable floor plates, strongest chains and slats in their class, fully sealed auger bearings and exclusive horizontal sliding damper doors

VT LeeBoy 8616C Asphalt Paver The 8616C Asphalt Paver has a single sliding control console and an adjustable deck.

•• 111-hp Kubota Tier 4 Final engine •• Enhance hydraulic system optimizes system performance •• Paving width: 8-ft.to 15-ft.

•• Legend 816 heavy-duty electric screed •• Under auger material cut-off gates ForConstructionPros.com/12313449

ForConstructionPros.com/12305555

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www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017

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Striping

Allan Heydorn, Editor

How to Stripe a

NATIONAL PARK Apply-A-Line’s flexibility enables it to restripe Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park without disrupting visitors ALMOST 1.9 MILLION people visited Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in 2016, so when the park’s pavement needed to be restriped this year, the challenge for the striping contractor was getting the work done with the least disruption to park visitors.

So when general contractor S.T. Rhoades Construction, Redding, CA, sought a pavement marking subcontractor, the directives were clear: Get in, get done, get out – and stay out of the way of the visitors.

“The park needed this work done right away and we could make that happen for them,” says Steve Rhoades, CEO/ owner of S.T. Rhoades Construction, Redding, CA. S.T. Rhoades Construction works throughout the western United States and the islands of Hawaii and

Restriping work in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park covered 66 miles of roads and 20 parking lots.

All photos courtesy NPS Photo/Sami Steinkamp

Maui. The contractor employs 80 people and specializes in roads and highways, with half their work being paving. Steve Rhoades says virtually all the general contractor’s striping work is subcontracted to Apply-A-Line, and that was the case on this job as well.

14 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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TOTAL STRIPING SOLUTIONS Designed to produce the most precise and consistent lines in the industry, Graco’s LineLazer® family of products deliver the ultimate in innovation and technology, with unmatched quality.

PARKING LOTS

AIRPORTS

ROADS

INTERSECTIONS

GET MORE INFORMATION & REQUEST A DEMO graco.com/TotalStriping INDOOR

AND NOW, EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS INTO INDOOR APPLICATIONS WITH THE INDUSTRY’S FIRST ELECTRIC BATTERY-POWERED AIRLESS LINE STRIPER! NO ENGINE NOISE • NO ENGINE VIBRATION • NO ENGINE FUMES

ForConstructionPros.com/10073164 © 2017 Graco Inc. 344027C 4/17 Printed in the U.S.A. Product covered by issued and pending patents, see graco.com/us/en/patents

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STRIPE UP TO 60 GALLONS ON ONE CHARGE!

4/27/17 3:57 PM

Striping Centerlines included solid pass/no pass lines, solid lines with skips, and skip lines in yellow; fog lines were in white. Crews also applied glass beads at a rate of 7 lbs./gal.

Headquartered in Pacific, WA, ApplyA-Line is a family-owned business providing pavement marking services throughout the western United States since 1985 and Hawaii since 1993.

Planning for Visitors Located on the southeast corner of the island of Hawaii, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park encompasses 333,086 acres, including 66 miles of paved roads and 20 parking lots.

Jessica Ferracane, public affairs specialist, says the park worked well in advance to alert visitors, tour operators and park employees to the striping project. She says a news release was distributed to all local media, tour operators, park partners and the visitors’ bureau.

“In addition, we got the word out via social media,” Ferracane says. “We also let all employees know by informing them at the monthly All Park meetings, and ensured our front lines interpretive rangers, the ones who deal directly with park visitors each day, are informed regularly with updates on the project.”

“The biggest challenge at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is the visitors,” says Trent Caban, project manager

and estimator on the Volcano job. “It’s a tourist park and park officials don’t want to interrupt, so we were doing the work with as little disruption as possible.”

Both S.T. Rhoades and Apply-A-Line were involved in handling traffic control during the job, “which you can imagine can be difficult in an especially busy national park,” Rhoades says.

Caban says the long-line striping on Chain of Craters Road, was the easiest with 500,000 ft. of centerlines and fog lines (what some term edge lines) completed in a week. Centerlines included solid pass/no pass lines, solid

Both S.T. Rhoades and Apply-A-Line were involved in handling traffic control during the job, “which you can imagine can be difficult in an especially busy national park,” Steve Rhoades says.

lines with skips, and skip lines in yellow; fog lines were in white. Crews also applied glass beads at a rate of 7 lbs./gal.

“The long-line work went pretty smoothly,” Caban says. “We used two flaggers in front and behind the paint truck and were able to keep delays to less than 15 minutes.”

Striping Parking Lots Caban says the park didn’t allow them to shut down any of the 20 parking lots to restripe them, so they became the slowest part of the job. He says they kept an eye out and if a lot wasn’t busy they coned off 20 stalls at a time, restriped the area, then moved the cones to another part of the lot only when the first section was dry and could be used.

“We just kept moving around in each parking lot until the lot was done,” Caban says.

Or until the parking lot got too busy.

“Most of the work was done before 10:00 in the morning because that’s when they started to get busy,” Caban says.

“Then we went to work on some places that were more out of the way.”

On some days they just shut down their

16 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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“Our national parks are very iconic and they need to be taken care of,” says Steve Rhoades. “Striping adds to the beautification of the parks and we need to keep the parking looking nice for a great visitor experience.”

work because the park had so many visitors.

“That definitely affected our production, but you go into the job knowing that so we just try to figure that all out when we’re bidding,” Caban says. “Obviously that hinders your work and productivity but if you know before you bid you just have to figure it out and put it into the bid.”

Left: Apply-A-Line wasn't allowed to shut down any of the 20 parking lots, so if a lot wasn’t busy crews coned off 20 stalls at a time, restriped the area, then moved the cones to another part of the lot only when the first section was dry and could be used.

Right: “Most of the work was done before 10:00 in the morning because that’s when they started to get busy,” Trent Caban says.

“Then we went to work on some places that were more out of the way.”

ForConstructionPros.com/10075040

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 17

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Striping

Allan Heydorn, Editor

HOW PAINT TESTING LED TO

RACETRACK STRIPING Advanced Pavement Marking’s work with KellyCreswell and Drew Paints opens new niche IN 2015, ADVANCED PAVEMENT Marking, West Olive, MI, was approached by Kelly-Creswell to test a new high-friction paint designed for use on racetracks. Not only was APM interested in doing the testing, but the market dovetailed nicely with the interests of co-owners Don Sokolow and Jeff Swendrowski, who at one time traveled the country racing boats in the American Power Boat Association tunnel hull series as “Team Perfect 10 Racing.”

APM, which had transformed from a parking lot striping contractor to striping almost exclusively for municipalities and airports, relies almost entirely on Kelly-Creswell conventional air striping equipment – integral to the story. So when Kelly-Creswell called, APM decided to tackle the testing.

The result has opened a new business niche – racetrack striping – for APM, and likely a new market in the U.S. for the friction paint many racetracks require.

After testing out the paint, APM painted two tracks in 2016, and heading into the 2017 season the contractor has four racetracks jobs on the books, one velodrome job, and at press time another few bids waiting acceptance.

A Unique Paint Sokolow says the paint, produced by Drew Paints Inc., Portland, OR, is a water-based formula infused with a high-friction grit that provides increased traction and safety for motorcycle and auto racing participants. Drew Paints is the only U.S.-based company producing a paint approved by both Federation Internationale de le’Automobile (FIA) and Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) racing bodies.

Also, MotoAmerica, the motorcycle racing body, recommends all tracks in its series be painted with “circuit paint”.

Until development of this new material, any time a friction paint was used

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on a U.S. racetrack, it had to be sourced from Europe and crews with specialized equipment had to be brought from Europe to apply it.

Sokolow says Drew Paints contacted Kelly-Creswell because the highfriction material can’t be sprayed through airless equipment.

He says that due to the traction additive, airless machines will self-destruct from the abrasives and that airless tips will instantly clog. He says that conventional air machines must be modified to spray the paint but the equipment will withstand the process.

So once APM agreed to test the paint, the first step was to modify their air-powered striping equipment to handle the material.

Prior to development of this product, paint that met racing approval came from Europe, so it was costly to import and required experienced applicators with the specialized equipment coming from overseas as well.

of pressure in the paint tank, at the gun and also to operate the in-tank agitator to keep the material mixed,” Sokolow says.

Other modifications include: • Changed the material tank size • Added specially designed KellyCreswell tank caps that feature a fourpaddle agitator, which keeps the grit in the material in suspension. The tank paddles also can reach the tank bottom, preventing the material from collecting there • All lines were replaced to double the line diameter • Line length was kept to a maximum of 25 ft. to help maintain air pressure • Air volume line was increased to 5/16 in. diameter all the way to the head • All strainers were removed • Larger tips and needles were used to accommodate the material Sokolow says the nature of the paint and the use of conventional style equipment means the striping

process requires constant monitoring.

He says the palletized stripers were converted to hold up to 20 gallons at a time, any larger would mean even more modification and agitation needs.

Friction paint is packaged in 4-gal. buckets due to its weight and material settlement. Because of the frictionenhancing grit, the paint requires constant mixing; it’s mixed before it is poured into the tank and agitated throughout the job.

“You can’t just stripe and go,” he says.

“There’s constant attention to mixing

Modifying the Equipment Sokolow says APM uses palletized machines mounted in pickup truck beds. The palletized units include a material tank and air compressor, both of which need to be modified by APM to handle the paint. Sokolow says they not only doubled CFM of the compressor but they installed auxiliary air holding tanks to assure an uninterrupted flow of air to the material tank and gun. The compressor pushes air into the auxiliary tank and the air is drawn from the auxiliary tank, thereby eliminating any gaps or reduction in air pressure.

“It’s crucial to have a high amount “Knowing we had full support from our equipment manufacture and direct paint supplier support, we agreed to give it a try and take our services national into a unique niche market: race tracks,” Don Sokolow says. www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 19

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Striping and tuning up the pressures. We are always adjusting the pump pressure as temperature and humidity changes and to make sure we get the fan spray right.”

He says, for example, that 40 psi might be enough to push the material out of the tank but they might need to increase it to 100 psi to get the paint fan they need.

“The biggest challenge is the actual production window and the available cure time because it takes an hour for the paint to fully cure,” he says. “Plus we have to account for changing conditions from the day to the night and changing dew points which affect the material.

“We’ll start out with temperatures close to 80°F during the day and it can get to the low-40s at night with

dew points close to the 80s, just shy of working in wet weather,” he says. “As the conditions change the material gets thicker, which requires attention and adjustment throughout the job.”

He says some racetracks and other contractors have applied this paint with brushes and rollers, which led to inconsistent thicknesses, uncontrollable grouping of traction additive and dead spots.

“We refined our equipment and application techniques in order to uniformly apply material in a way that ensures the paint-friction additive was constantly mixed and applied edge to edge, start to finish, with little to no dead spots. Keeping the friction additive

For New Jersey Motorsports Park, APM created a 10 ft. x 44 ft. custom in-house built logo with the track’s font and colors for the track’s start/finish line.

How to Prepare for Work on the Road APM crews regularly work in a relatively large (more than 100 miles or greater) service area on projects that require extended stays. That experience has taught APM how to properly prepare equipment and crews to successfully work away from the home office.

Don Sokolow says before crews leave the yard for long-distance, extended-stay projects, all equipment is freshly serviced and prepped, including new belts, hoses, airlines, regulators, general fluid changes and flushes. “Even if belts, hoses, airlines etc. appear in good condition we do not gamble with this,” he says.

The service trailers are equipped with spare lines, guns, tips, compressors and even a spare motors. “Our crews typically perform during irregular business hours/low traffic volume and this can make the simplest repair difficult if one isn’t prepared,” he says. “A 2:00 a.m. breakdown must be fixed when all the auto/repair shops are closed.”

in suspension and eliminating dead spots is crucial for product success.”

Racetrack Striping Sokolow says that depending on the format of the races, most tracks are restriped at least twice a year – and some three or four times a year.

He says APM started working on the 2 ½-mile Road Atlanta track, Braselton, GA, April 11 and had to be finished and the track ready for racing April 15. But when they got on site to go to work they were in for a surprise.

“Race tracks are known for their weekend events, what typically is not known is how active these tracks are during the week days, hosting racing schools, testing and private track rentals,” Sokolow says. “This shuts down the track to contractors Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., making our service window limited and into nighttime hours.

“That was a big shocker to us. We were ready to go but had to wait for the

20 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Striping

APM modified its striping equipment, equipping its palletized units with onboard mixing agitators, sealed tanks, large compressors, high-volume lines and guns that can spray abrasive and thick materials.

track to be empty. Once we realized that, we got everything ready to go and once the track got cold we were on it.”

The Atlanta project consisted of painting all starting grids, aprons, various edges and the checkered finish line, and a large runout area used in case a driver overshoots the turn in so they can recover themselves.

He says that because of the schedule much of the work was done at night, which is not unusual for APM crews.

“That’s not unusual for us, we do a lot of night work,” he says. “We didn’t expect it at first but we adjusted and now we know.”

From Atlanta APM went to its second race track job, New Jersey Motorsports Park, Millville, NJ. Here, too, APM worked night and day over four days doing both new layout and restriping.

The entire track including chicanes (aggressive turns) were

to be painted on the 2-1/2-mile course, so APM striped the chicanes, pit boxes, pit lanes, starting boxes, divider islands and all edge line markings, 80% of which had been worn away. APM also created a 10 ft. x 44 ft. custom in-house built logo with the track’s font and colors for the track’s start/finish line.

“Working within the available time frames we were able to complete the equivalent of 200,000 ft. of 4-in.-wide lines,” Sokolow says.

“What we didn’t realize when we took on the track projects was that most tracks can be in use from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. every day,” says Don Sokolow.

Bidding Unpredictable Work Don Sokolow says bidding racetrack work is difficult because the schedule is tight, work hours are restricted, projects are far away. Night work is often necessary and weather can interfere.

“But we’re used to tough unpredictable schedules for municipalities and airport projects,” he says. “We don’t always know when we can paint for municipalities because of weather, traffic backups, accidents etc.”

APM services thousands of traffic marking symbols and messages along with roads and crosswalks in Michigan’s tight and unpredictable production window, so APM has learned how to build in a “fudge factor” when bidding.

“We’re pretty good at knowing what we can do and how we can overcome delays and so we applied that to the bidding for the racetracks,” Sokolow says. “Schedules are very tight. We know roughly what our crew production output is on a good day and we might scale that back a bit as a fudge factor to give ourselves some room.”

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Growth

Allan Heydorn, Editor

HOW TO THRIVE in a Small, Short-season Market M & M Construction relies on hands-on control, equipment use, year-round sales effort ONE NIGHT BACK in 2004, Mike and Marty Hinrichs knew they had a decision to make. Mike was working in the paving industry for his father, but as with many family businesses, things weren’t working out. Marty ran her own successful residential and commercial cleaning business.

But what was next? They headed to a local watering hole and wondered whether Mike could start a company on his own. They talked it through and made notes and sketched out ideas on a cocktail napkin, including the name of the new company, M & M Construction and Cleaning.

“I wish we’d kept that napkin,” Marty says today.

That’s because M & M, with 20 employees operating in a relatively short-season market in Rochester, MN, has become a thriving and steadily growing paving, pavement maintenance and snow removal business that cracked the $2 million mark in 2015.

Serving a Rochester and its surrounding areas, M & M Construction generates two-thirds of its sales from paving and the remainder from pavement maintenance and snow removal and its position as a Star Seal vendor. “Anything to do with asphalt we do it; paving, sealcoating, repair and stripe,” Mike says. “And we do it all in house.”

Commercial work accounts for 60% of sales and 40% is residential. Marty handles all sales for the company and supervises and runs two two-person sealcoating crews while Mike runs the

paver and a 12-person crew on all paving projects. The paving team includes six installers and six haul drivers who drive the five dump trucks owned by M & M. “We own and operate our own haul trucks because I don’t like to be waiting on other people,” Mike says. “If we have to hire them we have no control over their time and really end up working on their schedule.”

And that comment offers a hint at how M & M has been able to grow so steadily in what Mike terms “a small big town.” Mike and Marty believe in control: Control over their business, control over job quality, control over growth and productivity. That’s how they’ve positioned themselves in their market,

it’s one reason they own so much equipment, and it’s how they’ve managed to be so productive for a small company in a region with a relatively short season.

Just What Was on that Napkin?

Mike had been working for his father’s company, first operating a roller at the age of 12. In 2004 he and Marty decided he should set out on his own and they drew up plans on the napkin. Because Marty had her own business, Marty’s Cleaning Service, doing residential and commercial cleaning, the new company was incorporated as M & M Construction & Cleaning Inc. because they didn’t want to carry two insurance policies.

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“We bring a lot of equipment to the jobsite because it’s amazing how fast you can get things done when you have more equipment and the right equipment,” Mike Hinrichs says.

Six people have been with M & M for between three and five years, and two people have been with the company more than 10 years. “Being able to rely on experienced employees has helped keep us efficient and has helped maintain our quality,” says Mike Hinrichs.

Educating the Market

Marty & Mike Hinrichs wish they'd saved the napkin on which they sketched out their business plans back in 2004.

The Second “M” Joins the Business

M & M Construction and Cleaning started with a one-ton pickup, a dump truck and a rented roller. Mike borrowed a trailer and paved by hand for most of 2004 – and Marty kept her business. Mike realized he needed to become more productive and work easier, so late in 2004 he took out a second mortgage on the house he’d built in 2001 and he bought a Puckett Brothers BD6500D power box paver, a trailer to haul it, and the roller he’d been renting. By the end of the season in 2005 they’d made $70,000 between the two businesses “but we knew it was growing. We could tell because we were getting more and more calls,” Mike says.

But at the time, M & M Construction did only paving and patching. They kept getting calls asking for sealcoating work but Mike resisted. “I didn’t want to add anything until I knew we could make it work, so I told Marty I wouldn’t start sealcoating until we got 70 calls, though where the number 70 came from I can’t tell you. I just said it,” he says. “On the 71st call I said ‘Yes, I do sealcoating’.”

As soon as he started sealcoating, he worked 60 days straight, alternating a week of sealcoating with a week of paving. He was on every job. “I pride myself on the quality work I do and that caught up with me pretty quickly,” he says.

Realizing he couldn’t do both, he hired a person to do the sealcoating, but it was soon clear that wouldn’t work out.

Marty at the time was still doing her cleaning. “I begged him to let me come

Marty Hinrichs says one of the company’s more successful outreach events is a seminar program it runs several times a year. In spring two sessions are intended for contractors M & M works with and one session is for property owners and managers. In the offseason they host another session for property managers.

“We teach them what to look for in their pavement, how to properly maintain it to help it last as long as possible, Marty says. “If we try to educate people it’s a lot easier to work with them.”

Sessions draw up to 30 people each.

on board and help and he resisted for a while. He liked the idea of two different businesses so if one struggled the other was there,” she says.

But in late 2005, Mike gave in and Marty joined to handle the sealcoating side and has run with it ever since. “He needed help,” she says. “It was a blessing to have her come work with me,” Mike says.

At first, Marty cleaned in the morning and sealcoated in the afternoon, but by the end of 2006 she’d stopped cleaning

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Growth and devoted fulltime-plus to sealcoating.

“I didn’t even know how to back up a trailer when I started sealcoating,” Marty says. “But I just love it.”

More Equipment Means More Production M & M’s first sealcoating truck was an old oil tank bolted to a pickup bed that relied on a trash pump to spray material.

Snow Removal Bridges Pavement Maintenance Season In the winter, M & M Construction offers a full array of snow removal services throughout its Rochester, MN market.

The contractor relies on 13 pieces of equipment to clear 50 commercial accounts. And for the first time with 13 plows. Starting in 2016 M & M took on its first municipal account with the small city of Dover, MN. Marty Hinrichs says most of the crew overlaps from the summer season but additional workers are brought on board to man the plows.

“We have two 1-ton pickups sitting here so we might as well put a plow on them and they might as well be plowing,” he says. “This is a good area for snow removal where you can really make some money.”

Hinrichs said he likes to keep his equipment fresh so M & M re-outfitted his entire fleet of plows with Boss units in 2014.

Since then, M & M uses two Equipt sealcoating rigs, two Mauldin 1750 pavers, six dump trucks, Bomag rollers and four skid steers and a road grader. The only equipment they rent is an asphalt reclaimer which they use on about six jobs a year.

“We bring a lot of equipment to the jobsite because it’s amazing how fast you can get things done when you have more equipment and the right equipment,” Mike says. He says possibly his most important equipment are his skid steers, which is why he now runs four of them.

“I bought one skid steer and as soon as I could afford a second one we bought it.

When we could afford a third skid steer we bought that, too, as the first one was wearing out. And then I bought another one. They are very flexible and can work no matter what the ground is like. We rely on them a lot.”

Mike knows equipment is always available by renting or even borrowing, but that approach doesn’t work for him.

“I hate having to borrow or rent because when I do that, I am giving up some control over our business,” he says.

“I hate having to rely on others because I have no control over their time, and that can affect our schedule, our productivity and even our job quality. That’s why we invest in equipment and own and operate our own haul trucks.”

When working with his father, paving peaked at 800 tons of hot mix asphalt placed in a single year. “Now the company can easily pave 1370 tons in a week.

We can do something in three hours that would take three days before.”

Mike says that business is so good, he could send out more crews than he does – and he tried that in 2015 with unsatisfactory results.

“I knew we had enough work to run two crews each on sealcoating and paving,” he says. “So I broke up a great crew to make two crews and ended up with two mediocre crews instead of the one great crew we had. Quality suffered a little so we went back to one great crew.”

Surviving Seasonal Work in a Short Season Both Mike and Marty emphasize job quality and customer service, generally

“Anything to do with asphalt we do it; paving, sealcoating, repair and stripe,” Mike Hinrichs says. “And we do it all in house.”

working from 7:00 a.m. to often past 7:00 at night. “We spend many of those hours on sales because we need to have the jobs going forward. We have a short enough season where we can’t afford to have any gaps in the pipeline.”

She says they can work from midApril to mid-November, “but it really starts to fire up in May and starts to slow in October.”

Marty says they work aggressively on sales all year long, and like most northern markets, sales really pick up once the snow starts to melt. “That’s when the phone starts to ring, when people can see what the winter has done to their pavement,” she says.

To help generate sales, M & M relies on what Marty terms their “big file system,” which includes the details of every job the company has done. Using their files, they send a reminder post card starting in February to every client one, three and five years after a job has been completed, letting them know it’s time to consider additional pavement maintenance.

“We start well in advance to get work in the pipeline so we’re ready to go as soon as the weather breaks,” Mike says.

“In 2015-2016, we sold at least one asphalt job every week all winter long.”

And as of November 2016, M & M Construction had a month of work in the pipeline for 2017.

“We let our customers know that once they sign a contract with M & M, it doesn’t stop there,” Marty says. “We tell them, ‘Now you’ve become part of our family and we’ll try to help you as much as possible to get the most out of your asphalt pavement’. She says this has helped them maintain a high rate of repeat customers, including 10 banks for whom they’ve provided annual maintenance for seven years.

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Core Employees Play Key Role Mike says part of their success – and their ability to be so productive – is that M & M returns a core group of workers each spring. “That’s unusual for a seasonal business,” he says. “We’ve talked with a lot of contractors where that just doesn’t happen.”

He says six people have been with M & M for between three and five years, and two people have been with the company more than 10 years. “Being able to rely on experienced employees has helped keep us efficient and has helped

maintain our quality,” Mike says. “That’s really helped us grow.”

Marty says having an experienced team really helps when communicating with customers and prospects.

“We’ve all had experiences where we call a business and either we can’t get a person or the person we get acts like we’re interrupting their day. No one has that experience when they call or talk with anyone from M & M,” Marty says.

“Everyone they talk with in our office makes sure they are welcome and not an inconvenience and the same is true

When working with his father, paving peaked at 800 tons of hot mix asphalt placed in a single year; today M & M's crew "easily" paves 1370 tons in a week.

when they talk with any of our crew on site. We get a lot of compliments on how we communicate with our customers.”

“That’s because we’re good people and ‘Minnesota nice’,” Mike says.

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Striping

Ashley Hamme

The first step was cleaning the pavement using walkbehind blowers, brooms and sweeping equipment.

That was followed by cracksealing and the first coat of sealer.

Striping – and More – for Harley-Davidson D.E. Gemmill started with striping but 30 years now runs a full-service operation IN APRIL 2016, Harley-Davidson awarded D.E. Gemmill, Red Lion, PA, the bid to complete a large pavement maintenance project for Harley-Davidson’s Vehicle Operations plant and factory tour location in York, PA. Every year, thousands tour the Harley Davidson plant, established in 1973, to see HarleyDavidson’s Touring, Softail, CVO and Trike motorcycles being assembled.

On the Harley-Davidson project, D.E. Gemmill’s responsibilities included traffic control, cracksealing, sealcoating and striping their 258,730-sq.-ft. parking lot and loading dock area. D.E. Gemmill was also responsible for temporary directional signage for employees and visitors while the parking lot maintenance was being completed.

30th Anniversary The Harley-Davidson job came in the midst of D.E. Gemmill’s 30th anniversary year. David Gemmill started

D.E. Gemmill in 1986 as a pavement marking company, but 30 years later the business had grown and diversified.

Today, the contractor employs more than 50 people who provide pavement marking, asphalt maintenance, traffic control and traffic signage throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and Northern Virginia. They also offer sign installation, decorative pedestrian crossings, interior warehouses, epoxy traffic markings, thermoplastic and traffic sign retroreflectivity testing. In addition, D.E. Gemmill now operates a retail location in York, PA, that offers a broad variety of safety apparel, personal protective equipment, signage, traffic control signs and rentals.

Winning the Bid Harley-Davidson has been a returning D.E. Gemmill customer since 2011. Over the years, the contractor has restriped their parking lot, taped their interior

warehouse and factory aisle markings, installed signs and even provided the company with rentals.

After being awarded the project, D.E. Gemmill had several meetings with Harley-Davidson to review project plans, the materials being used and how to extend the life of their asphalt parking lot. Because Harley-Davidson shuts down production for one week each year for annual summer maintenance, D.E. Gemmill had seven days to complete the work.

The Process After installing directional signs around the facility, D.E. Gemmill crews used walk-behind blowers, hand brooms and sweeping equipment to remove surface debris and loose dirt to prepare the parking lot for the three phases of asphalt maintenance.

Sealing cracks and joints was the first phase of the project. The primary focus for crack and joint sealing was curb

38 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Striping

Traffic Control at Harley-Davidson In addition to performing the pavement maintenance, D.E. Gemmill provided traffic control to help direct employees and visitors around the asphalt maintenance project. D.E. Gemmill’s sign division made several directional signs to allow employees and any visitors entering the plant to easily identify the asphalt maintenance in progress and direct them to various avenues to access the plant route.

Harley-Davidson motorcycles receive preferred parking spots.

lines, where the asphalt pavement meets the concrete curb. This area was inspected during the bid process and D.E. Gemmill used a rubberized sealant to seal approximately 5,650 lineal feet of asphalt joints where the curbing meets the asphalt, including joint sealing around storm water drain inlets. D.E. Gemmill overlapped the concrete curb approximately 1-1½ in. to insure a complete seal of the joint.

Sealcoating followed the crack and joint sealing. D.E. Gemmill coordinated with SealMaster of Allentown, which delivered all the materials needed to complete the job to the Harley-Davidson jobsite. Crews sealcoated 258,730 sq. ft. of asphalt with two coats of refined tar sealer as per the specifications. A third coat of sealer was applied to the main and secondary drive lanes.

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40 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Striping

D.E. Gemmill’s pavement markings was the final phase of the pavement maintenance project and crews applied a variety of pavement markings. The contractor’s striping crew painted almost 600 single-line parking stalls, 64 motorcycle parking stalls, 25 handicap stalls, 4 bus/ RV parking stalls and 34 truck docking stalls with number stencils in each stall.

Crews also applied stencils including 23 STOP stencils, 27 STOP bars and 5,357 lineal feet of 4-in. crosshatchings.

Harley-Davidson also wanted 29 of the 64 motorcycle stalls to be stenciled and painted with the Harley-emblem and “Only” below the emblem.

Ashley Hamme is marketing director for D.E. Gemmill Inc., Red Lion, PA; www. degemmill.com.

D.E. Gemmill applied two coats of sealer throughout most of the parking lot but three coats in main and secondary drive lanes.

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42 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Sealcoating

Maury Bagwell With a dual applicator sealcoat machine, a contractor reduces competition for jobs because only 5% of contractors own these types of machines.

6 Tips to Improve your

SEALCOATING ROI A focus on your equipment will help improve your bottom line

MAXIMIZING RETURN ON investment doesn’t take a mathematician. For sealcoat contractors, bringing in the most green comes down to selecting a machine that’s powerful, easy to maintain and supported by a reliable manufacturer. Following these six steps will help you maximize return on investment (ROI) in sealcoating equipment.

1. Say Goodbye to Daily Cleaning Reduce cleaning requirements and time by selecting a sealcoat machine with an easy-to-clean pump. Diaphragm, piston and Bowie pumps each have different cleaning requirements, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your operation and schedules.

Diaphragm pumps need daily rinsing to avoid the risk of sealcoat breaking down materials in the rubber. Skipping this step can reduce the pump’s life by 50%. Sealcoating machines with piston pumps require rinsing out the pumps once a year before long-term storage.

Similarly, Bowie pumps do not require daily cleaning.

2. Minimize Maintenance A properly maintenance sealcoating machine can last 20-30 years, so it's important to pay attention to maintenance.

Start by looking for pumps with few moving parts, as this cuts back on frequent replacements. When it comes to seals, contractors usually choose between leather and rubber seals. Leather seals require no daily maintenance and have a long service life. Rubber seals are less expensive to purchase than leather seals. But more parts are needed to replace rubber seal components compared to leather seals. Some pumps cost as much as $1,200 to repair or more than $2,000 to replace the gaskets and steel wear plates around the pump seals.

It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of both options ahead of time to avoid unexpected expenses down the road.

The agitation system and tank also contribute to maintenance requirements. Agitators help the machine mix thick materials as well as break up settled sand and sealer that can harden inside the tank. Agitators may be level

or staggered, and generally as more agitators engage material, more torque is required to turn the material. Staggered agitators engage only one or two agitator arms with the material at a time.

This helps reduce the amount of torque required to turn the material.

An agitation system with chain reduction helps give the motor additional torque. On average, a chain reduction agitation system provides three times the power of a drive agitator.

Some manufacturers incorporate rubber wipers at the ends of the agitators to help scrape material off the walls inside the tank. It’s important to note that when working with heavy sand mixes, the rubber blades may wear and break off. The rubber getting stuck in the pumping system and damaging it.

Consider the tank, too. Plastic vs. steel tanks is often a consideration, and while plastic is less expensive up front, they can be less durable than steel tanks and cleaning and maintenance could add to the cost over the long term. And where steel or metal tanks may cost more up front, they can last more than 30 years.

44 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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3. Save With Storage A storage tank can cut long-term costs, too. With a tank, contractors have the ability to buy material in bulk, which generally reduces the price per gallon.

Plus, storage tanks save transportation costs by reducing the trips to a sealer provider. Contractors simply refill the application vehicle on their site. For large commercial projects, such as a department store parking lot, the less time the area is closed off for sealcoating, the happier the customer. Oftentimes contractors will even receive increased pay for efficiency. A storage tank contributes to all of that.

4. Maximize Power To quickly finish a job and move on to the next project, purchase a sealcoating machine with productive, powerful and profitable components.

Start by considering the desired range of jobs. For the greatest flexibility from a single piece of equipment, look for a pump that pushes as much as 15 lbs. of sand per gal. This is ideal for covering large jobs, such as airports and parking lots, yet offers the versatility to take on smaller projects, such as driveways.

This greatly increases potential profits because contractors don’t have to limit their capabilities to smaller projects.

For example, if a contractor charges $1/yd. on a 10,000-sq.-yd. commercial parking lot, he would earn $10,000. If a contractor charges $2.50/yd. yard on a 50-sq.-yd. commercial driveway, he Consider using a storage tank to increase sealcoating ROI. Using a sealer mixer tank offers contractors the ability to buy material in bulk, saving on transportation costs from frequent trips to a sealcoat provider.

would earn $125. That’s a difference of $9,875. A contractor would need to take on multiple small projects to equal the profits they might get from a larger project. Plus, he would need to factor in the time and transport costs of getting to and from all the smaller projects.

The agitation system also plays a part in power and efficiency. For beginning professionals with small projects, a bypass circulation system is ideal. These pull sealer from the bottom of the tank to the top with a bypass pump, so long as there isn’t much sand in the mix.

Another option for contractors with a light project load are manual agitation systems. These use a manual crank system to stir the sealcoat and are generally less expensive than hydraulics. For professionals taking on multiple projects or slightly bigger jobs, it’s helpful to have a machine with hydraulic agitation. With a hydraulic system, operators eliminate the need to manually turn a crank to stir the sealcoat. This lowers the risk of operator strains and injuries as well as frees up time to work on other parts of the project, reducing the project’s overall time.

When it’s time to apply the sealcoat, using a distributor bar can be more efficient than a hand wand. For example, with a distributor bar it takes 20 minutes for contractors to empty a 750-gal. tank, compared to a hand wand that takes about an hour and 25 minutes. This greatly reduces labor costs. However, using a hand wand may be beneficial for working in small, hard-to-reach areas or areas where a sealcoat machine can't maneuver.

5. Set Yourself Apart Versatility is key when it comes to gaining a larger customer base. Unfortunately, some contractors find themselves limited by their application method — squeegee or spray. While both methods produce quality results, each has its own benefits. For example, the squeegee method works well for rough surfaces that require packing material into the cracks and crevices, while the spray method works best on smooth surfaces.

For increased flexibility, consider a machine that offers both options. A sealcoat machine with a dual applicator system generally costs more than units with a single applicator. However, only about 5% of contractors own these types of machines, so competition for jobs where squeegee and spray are desired is greatly reduced. Not only that, but the combination squeegee/spray results last 40% longer than the two coat industry-standard spray method.

6. Who Has Your Back?

Having a quality sealcoat machine is half the battle when looking to maximize ROI. For taking profit potential further, work with a reliable, customer-focused manufacturer. This means having personal diagnostic assistance available by phone to troubleshoot any problems as well as readily accessible parts for fast replacements. It’s also beneficial when manufacturers offer services for aging equipment, such as upgrades, part replacements or pump rebuilds, since it helps contractors get more value from their equipment.

Selecting the right sealcoat machine from a reliable manufacturer sets contractors up for exceeding their ROI goals. For a fast ROI, remember to look at all angles of the machine’s cost, from the initial investment to added labor and maintenance costs over time. With these tips in mind, raising ROI is a problem solved.

Maury Bagwell is the lead engineer at Neal Manufacturing (www.nealequip. com), a division of Blastcrete, based in Anniston, AL.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 45

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Contractors ’ Choice: Sweepers

Jessica Stoikes, Associate Editor

The Osprey II from NiteHawk (above) and Updraft from Schwarze are below the CDL requirement which is any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.

Is There a Market Shift for Non-CDL Sweepers?

In an industry where finding skilled workers is a challenge, sweeper manufacturers are responding with new machines that are smaller, legal to operate without a commercial driver’s license (CDL) WHILE STATE-BY-state regulations may vary, the federal statute says that a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required for vehicles that are at a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lb. or higher. Most street sweepers reside right around that area.

In an industry where it’s hard enough to find and keep good workers, the added burden of obtaining a CDL can cause even more stress for sweeping companies looking for drivers. Non-CDL sweepers are generally in the 10,001 lb. to 26,000 lb. GVWR. Non-CDL sweepers also feature hydraulic brakes, as opposed to air brakes.

Sweeping Without a CDL The demand for lower cost, non-CDL sweepers, primarily for parking lot

sweeping, started back in the early 1990’s.

"With their smaller wheelbases, non-CDL units are very maneuverable, which is important when sweeping tight, confined areas like parking lots, parking decks and alleyways," says James Crockett, product manager for Elgin Sweeper. "A full-size CDL sweeper would be overkill for parking lot sweeping, simply because the sweeper wouldn’t encounter as much debris as it would in street sweeping applications."

The Elgin Pelican broom sweeper, a non-CDL unit, is specially suited for applications that require extreme maneuverability due to congested areas, heavy debris such as that found in northern climate spring clean up and bulky items up to 9-in. long.

In addition, non-CDL sweepers tend to be easier to maintain than their larger, more complicated counterparts. These units normally do not have an auxiliary engine so they are able to deliver performance with efficiency.

"Lower operating and maintenance costs and total cost of ownership generally favors the non-CDL equipment," says Tracy Day, president of NiteHawk Sweepers. "This also includes decreases maintenance costs."

Day says there are also benefits to the customer when a contractor chooses to bring a non-CDL sweeper in to their parking lots.

"It’s less stressful to have smaller machinery operating on their grounds," he says. "Operating smaller parking lot sweepers may also lower the cost of

46 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Contractors ’ Choice: Sweepers operation on the lot, which may in turn lead to increased service or reduced rates in comparison to CDL units."

The NiteHawk Osprey II, also a nonCDL unit, features a low-profile conventional cab and hopper design that gives drivers access to low clearance areas. The sweeper also operates on a single engine hydraulic design making it extremely quiet to operate.

Smaller Sweepers Help with Worker Shortage While the process differs in many states, the testing involved to obtain a CDL tends to be strenuous and includes both written and a three-part skills exams.

Since 40% of the construction industry as a whole is having a hard time finding skilled workers, adding the time and expense required to get a CDL is simply another burden for hiring managers at a sweeping company.

"Municipalities are very budget conscious," Crockett says. "Non-CDL sweepers are less expensive than fullsize sweepers, and a non-CDL sweeper operator can be paid a lower wage than a CDL operator who earns a higher, premium wage in the marketplace.

Operating a non-CDL sweeper does not require the same expertise and skill set required for operating a CDL sweeper or other piece of heavy equipment, such as a sewer cleaner."

"There are a multitude of additional legal requirements that go along with running a CDL unit including but not limited to training and endorsements,"

says Day. "This typically leads to a larger labor pool to choose from in a very competitive landscape."

Many of these smaller sweepers are also more user-friendly allowing these units to be easier to train new users to operate.

When to Upgrade to a Larger Sweeper While there is a market for non-CDL machines for sweeping parking lots, parking decks and alleyways, if you're going to complete larger jobs, then you need a sweeper that requires a CDL to operate.

CDL sweepers offer the larger payload capacities that cities and municipalities demand. Many CDL sweeper options include air, mechanical, specialty and waterless sweepers for sweeping and catch basin cleaning, leaf removal, year-round sweeping and heavy-duty sweeping.

"The demand has never been higher for our “larger" sweepers that require CDLs," says Jason Condon with Global Environmental Products.

And when it comes to price, some of the CDL units can be comparable to the larger non-CDL sweepers.

"As you get in to the larger units, there's not much of a cost difference between a 26,000-lb GVW chassis vs. a 33,000-lb GVW chassis," says Jim Adair with Schwarze Sweepers. "Then you just have that much more payload that you can put on the truck. Generally non-CDL units are going to have close to the same size engine due to emission controls

Elgin Sweeper offers contractors the Elgin Pelican and Elgin Broom Badger mechanical sweepers, which are both non-CDL machines.

When a CDL is required, there are a number of things needed before a driver can get behind the wheel of your company vehicle: Prior to hiring an operator you must have them fill out an employment application and there are certain questions that must be included on it (391.21). In addition, a driving ability road test must be given by a company employee prior to hiring, and the results of this must be kept in the employee’s file. (391.31) If the driver has a CDL, this requirement may be satisfied by keeping a copy of the CDL on file instead of doing a road test. (391.33) Other items needed prior to employment include several investigations that must be performed. One is that you need to get a copy of the prospective employee’s driving record for at least three years back, and these must cover however many states in which he or she has had a drivers license. The same type of investigation must be initiated with any employers the person has worked for in the previous three years. (391.23) There are also requirements for driver education about this testing and about the effects of alcohol and controlled substances use, for supervisor training, and for proper evaluation, treatment and ongoing monitoring of drivers who test positive.

Bottom line, if you need a CDL, understand the regulations. Visit www. fmcsa.dot.gov for more information.

today since we're kind of limited to the size of the wheelbase for these units to get that equipment in there, but the suspension, axles and brakes will all be the same compared to a CDL-unit.

“Contractors say a CDL-driver is a benefit to their company. Not only are these guys at another more experienced driving level, but sometimes these drivers also offer a decrease in insurance due to their licensing."

Depending on the type of sweeping performed, a CDL unit may be appropriate. However, for the parking and light industrial applications a nonCDL unit may the most cost effective and beneficial tool. Be sure to work with the manufacturer to evaluate your needs and staffing concerns before making any buying decisions.

48 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Allstates Coatings Company® www.allstatescoatings.com 903-845-6436 2005 Allstates Coatings Co.® and its logo are registered trademarks of Allstates Coatings Company®

479 S. Broad Street Glen Rock, NJ 07452

www.ameRicanstencil.com

Billings, Montana (406) 248-2463 New & used performance engineered pavement marking, removal & saw cutting equipment - truck mounted & palletized.

Competitive pricing

Paint & epoxy stripers in stock & ready to stripe!

Parts, service & retrofits

www.arrowstriping.com

With time & money on the liline – A Arrow ddelivers. li www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 51

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Classifieds

Classifieds

Call us for any Used Striping Equipment needs:

770-331-2550

Check out our website at www.usedstripingequipment.com

2004 GMC TMT Airless Paint Truck

Low Mileage, Great Condition, Dual Steering, All Controls in the Cab, Set up for One Person Operation, Ready to Stripe, Great for striping behind pavers, One Available.

2002 GMC MRL Polyurea Striper

Good Condition and Ready to Stripe, 89,000 Miles.

2005 Sterling Condor TMT 607P Airless Paint Truck Loaded. Excellent Condition. Only 11,000 Miles.

$165,000

$225,000

$72,500

2002 GMC T7500 New Mark Longline Thermo Striper

92,000 miles, Double Drop Bead System, Ribbon Guns. Very nice condition and ready to work.

$167,500

2002 Isuzu EZ Liner Airless Paint Truck Very Nice Condition. Ready to Stripe.

$57,750

Gas, Auto, under DL, only 75,000 miles and Very Clean.

2000 UD TMT RPM Bitumen Truck

Only 55,000 miles and Ready to Work.

$42,750

$39,500

2008 Freightliner Attenuator Truck

Cummins Diesel, Auto, under CDL, Runs Excellent, 336K miles

1999 Hino TMT Longline Thermo Striper Very Nice Condition.

$138,750

$37,500

2001 GMC EZ Liner Air Spray Paint Truck Excellent Condition.

$92,500

2005 GMC w/Scorpion Attenuator and Solar arrow Board

2002 GMC MRL Pressure Pot Thermo Striper

Double Drop Bead System. Very Nice Condition.

$82,500

2003 International Thermo Melter Truck

with Liftgate — DT 466 Diesel. Auto.

Under CDL. 144,000 miles. Ready to Work!

$49,900

We buy used equipment and will take trade-ins.

Please call for used parts for most striping equipment and save!

52 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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Classifieds

Sealcoat and Hot Tack Machine

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 53

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Classifieds

Classifieds

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54 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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WET TRACK ABRASION TESTER Complete to ISSA TB 100

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www.benedictslurry.com www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 55

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Call Toll Free 1-888-843-1805 56 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 57

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Classifieds

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with 4HK1-TCS Diesel 5.2 Liter 215 hp, Allison Automatic 6 speed Transmission, pwr locks and windows, HD 13”rear axle, 134” wheel base. 23,xxx miles Econliner Drum Airless Paint Truck Built by M-B Companies in 2012 SO#90337

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Titan Airless Pump 441-315. 750 lb capacity glass bead tank. 3 Drum Paint capacity (2 in use at a time). 3 Graco Paint Guns Model 238377 (2 centerline and 1 edge line) with 3 Graco Glass bead guns Model 238338 (2 centerline and 1 edge line). MB/skip-line SM-5 controllers. David Clark series 3800 intercom system with headsets. Whelen Edge 9M lightbar and L22 series strobes. Trucklite carriage and work lights. Foldable rear cone platform/work platform with Superwinch up/down.

Contact: Scott Merriman 540-439-8513 Email: smerriman@payneslinesandsigns.com 58 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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On The Job

TOP 5 Common Mistakes When Asphalt Paving Training courses can help break bad habits PAVING HAS LONG been recognized as a job molded on precision. From temperature to speed to head of material — every team member on the paving crew influences the final product, and every mistake made is amplified further down the line.

With regular, hands-on training, however, every team member on the paving crew can gain not only an understanding but also experience making small changes that lead to a better paved parking lot, road or driveway – and a well-tuned team.

“My favorite part of teaching courses is watching ‘a-ha’ moments happen during hands-on training, especially when that’s from a student who’s been paving for 20, 25 years,” says Wayne Tomlinson, compaction training specialist with Volvo Construction Equipment. “I know these guys are busy and getting away for training is tough, but a few days’ time in the scheme of how it impacts a crew’s bottom line are so impactful.”

Tomlinson says that while every class member comes to training with specific goals in mind, the sessions focus on some of the most common mistakes that hands-on training can help rectify.

■ COMMON MISTAKE #1: Not controlling the head of material. More than 95% of all material faults are due to improper head of material in front of the screed. One of the most common operator mistakes is allowing for fluctuation. Chances for speed bumps and waves in the mat are increased by even an inch of fluctuation in the head of material.

The training solution: Many of the latest machines are equipped with sensors to control head of material.

While this is an easy solution to the problem of fluctuation, many operators

either choose not to use them or haven’t been coached on how to set them up properly. Hands-on training can give operators confidence in using these tools already at their disposal while reducing the risk for material faults.

■ COMMON MISTAKE #2: Turning the depth cranks too much. Needlessly adjusting the depth cranks throughout the paving process can cause waves in the mat, ultimately requiring milling or repaving to meet smoothness specifications.

The training solution: To break this bad habit, operators should be trained to set the depth cranks effectively. Aside from the occasional minor adjustment for elevation changes, depth cranks shouldn’t be moved often.

■ COMMON MISTAKE #3: Changing speeds or paving too fast. Inconsistent paving speed not only has a negative impact to uniformity, but it can also throw off the timing of the entire paving train. Rollers are often faced with the pressure to catch up, so another common mistake is paving too fast. If the vibratory compactor impact spacing isn’t adequate, it can cause a washboard effect as well as density problems.

The training solution: Most pavers are equipped with speed limiters. Operators can limit the issues surrounding inconsistent or high speeds by using this tool. Many operators, however, either choose not to use the speed limiters or haven’t been properly trained on how to use them.

■ COMMON MISTAKE #4: Not using auto grade and slope control systems. If there’s any chance to reduce the amount of guesswork

in paving, an operator should take it.

Auto grade and slope control systems help reduce operator mistakes and lay a smoother mat. Still, there are operators who choose not to utilize them or have had a bad experience with them due to setup issues.

The training solution: If auto grade and slope control systems are properly configured, they can be fantastic tools for operators. If, however, the systems aren’t properly matched to the paver’s electronics, the readings won’t be accurate. Proper training on how to set up these systems is vital to ensuring the effectiveness of the tools.

■ COMMON MISTAKE #5: Stopping the compactor straight on. Another common mistake is to stop the compactor without turning at a slight angle. When stopping squarely, the resulting indentation will be much harder to level out on future passes. In fact, it can even get worse with each subsequent pass.

The training solution: The simplest fix to this mistake is to train an operator to stop at a slight 20% to 30% angle. Indentations made by a roller stopping at an angle are much more easily smoothed on future passes than those made by rollers that stop squarely.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 59

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Your Business Matters

Scott Applegate

How to Know When You Should

OUTSOURCE • IT – Including managing your computers, emails, and technical website issues.

Should you hire or outsource?

Hiring outside services can help your business; here’s how to tell when you’re ready ARE YOU A small business owner who is feeling the weight of all the hats you are wearing? Or are you a small business owner wishing you could focus on the parts of the business you enjoy doing and not the things you don’t enjoy? Then it might be time for you to start thinking about hiring additional staff or outsourcing some of the key responsibilities associated with running your business. We have come up with a few things to think about so you can decide if the change is right for you and your business.

How do you know it’s time to look for help?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself: • Have I or have others taken on additional tasks that are taking me/ them away from growing the business and increasing revenue?

• Am I or are others wearing hats that are not in my/their area of expertise just because the job has to get done?

• Is the business missing opportunities

for financial protection because no one has the time or expertise to manage those tasks?

• Do we have clients, subcontractors or suppliers we should not have done business with because it turned out they were not financially stable and caused us to lose money or not get paid?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, then it could be time to look for help.

What key areas make the most sense to get help with?

For every business, your needs are different. However, there are a few common areas that do not normally fall within the areas that are critical to your business and can be beneficial to get help with. Those include: • Bookkeeping – Including accounts payable and receivable.

• Back Office Support – Including credit monitoring and lien compliance.

• Accounting – Including help with taxes.

• Marketing – Including strategy and execution.

• Website – Including development and maintenance.

For most businesses, everything comes down to the bottom line and the same can be true when it comes to deciding between hiring someone or outsourcing the tasks. When you hire someone, you not only have to consider their salary, but all the additional overhead that goes along with employees such as insurance and equipment. Compared to when you outsource the tasks, you know what the set fee is and don’t have to cover items such as equipment.

Additionally, you have to ask the question of will the tasks that person will perform fill the amount of time you will be paying them for? Often with outsourced help, you are only paying them for the time they are working for you or for the specific project you have contracted them for.

Another consideration is if the tasks can be done remotely or do they need to be done at your location. There can be benefits to having someone in-house that you have more control over. However, the benefit of outsourcing can be that you will be working with someone who has other clients and has a broader experience base.

There is no one size fits all answer for every business, you have to weigh all the pros and cons to decide what will be best for your company.

Scott Applegate is the chief operating officer for CapitalPlus Financial, a financial services company specializing in helping construction companies with back office support services including bookkeeping, compliance and credit as well as their cash flow needs. www. capitalplusfinancial.com or (865) 670-2345.

60 May 2017 • PAVEMENT • www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement

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NAPSA

WSA

Sweepers that Don’t Require a CDL?

Sweeper Roundup in September

Federal Department of Transportation regulations require a commercial drivers license (CDL) for all vehicles over 26,000 lbs. GVWR. CDL qualification can prove expensive for companies subsidizing their employees in order to have the staff needed.

Companies may also find it difficult to find and hire drivers who already possess active Class B CDL qualifications. Although to some, the sweeping business may appear basic and simple, the mechanized equipment used for power sweeping is anything but so this is just the tip of the iceberg if you are in the need for power sweeping services.

Manufacturers respond to the variety of needs by offering a comprehensive selection of sweeping equipment, any of which require CDL’s and many which do not. This is not however, all you need to know to be a power sweeper, not by a long shot. So why would you want to try to take on this industry without the proper knowledge base? You wouldn’t.

Depending on the market segment and goals for the use of the equipment, manufacturers offer mechanical sweeping units either based on a ¾-ton or 1-ton truck chassis, which is about as large as one gets without needing a CDL. The more compact models slide into the bed of a pickup truck. Some offer specification sheets for download and others require potential customers contact them for information pertaining to equipment size and capability.

These smaller models make them cost-effective to operate and

I absolutely love the National Pavement Exposition (NPE). Each year I encourage sweeping contractors to attend and have been known to wax poetic about all they’ll be able to take home from the event.

However… As a principal organizer of the two Schwarzefamily Sweeper Roundup events held in the early 1990s, I also know there is something even more valuable about having a conference entirely focused on power sweeping with all of the attendees involved in the same industry, beset with the same kinds of challenges.

At the very popular Schwarze Roundups, we also had the leeway to conduct the event a bit differently, catering to the ‘hands on nature’ of sweeping contractors. Not only could they look at sweepers; they also were given an opportunity to operate them as well as see them perform during planned demonstration times.

As we will also do during the WSA Sweeper Roundup this coming September 15-17 in Kansas City, MO, I designed a fun ‘Sweeper Rodeo’ where all could participate in driving a parking area sweeper in a timed event. The Rodeos were designed with an emphasis not on picking up debris but, rather, on developing camaraderie among attendees all while having a hilariously good time.

Perhaps the most important difference this year’s inaugural WSA Sweeper Roundup will have — in contrast the 1990s events sponsored by a single manufacturer — is that all sweeper manufacturers and

perfect for cleaning areas with low clearances, such as parking garages and streets lined with mature trees. A professional power sweeper can assess the location to be serviced and provide the equipment that produces the result you want in the most effective and economic way.

So how do you find a professional power sweeper when you have the need for sweeping services? Rather than take on the responsibility of CDL, Non-CDL, selecting vacuums or mechanical brooms, check the NAPSA Contractor Locator.

NAPSA members are across the United States and will be happy to work with you to develop the solution that best fits your sweeping needs. Visit the NAPSA locator at www.PowerSweeping. org and click on the “Find a Contractor” link today.

The North American Power Sweeping Association (NAPSA) is a nonprofit association made up of contract sweepers, service providers and sweeping equipment dealers, manufacturers and suppliers. NAPSA is dedicated to providing beneficial support to the membership and enhancing services to the sweeping industry.

The members of NAPSA are committed to promoting and educating the power sweeping community while enhancing the environment. For more information on NAPSA membership, please visit www.powersweeping.org or call (888) 757-0130.

aftermarket vendors will be invited to attend and participate.

In addition to the usual slate of vendor discounts, WSA has become America’s fastest-growing sweeping association by offering over 250 educational articles written just for our industry.

These include more than 100 podcast interviews with sweeping contractors discussing the varying factors in their success. We also provide, exclusively to WSA Members, two informational email updates per month. Now, we couldn’t be more proud to raise the bar even higher by organizing America’s first-ever, independent gathering tailored to power sweeping contractors.

To ensure you receive complete information about the Sweeper Roundup, be sure you’re on the WorldSweeper mailing list by signing up at www.WorldSweeper.com/ guestbook.html.

WSA contributor Ranger Kidwell-Ross has been providing information to the power sweeping industry since 1988. He is editor of WorldSweeper.com, an information resource for power sweeping, as well as founder and executive director of the World Sweeping Association. For more information about WSA visit www.WorldSweepingPros.org or contact Kidwell-Ross at director@ worldsweepingpros.org.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement • PAVEMENT • May 2017 61

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PCTC

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The new sealcoating season marks the second year of the project run by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to collect data from sealcoat applicators. Like the similar study of asphalt paving crews conducted by NIOSH a decade ago, the sealcoat industry study is expected to yield useful data to help evaluate industry health and safety practices. When PCTC learned about NIOSH’s plan to study sealcoat applicators on-the-job, PCTC members recognized it as an opportunity to verify their experience and validate health and safety measures commonly used in the industry. To help ensure the success of the project, PCTC asked to be considered a “willing resource to draw on for information and assistance, including assistance in identifying and selecting companies and recruiting participants.” During the pilot phase of the study, PCTC facilitated participation from two different sealcoating companies in the NIOSH study. Samples collected and experience gained

by NIOSH at these job sites are being used to evaluate sampling methods and laboratory analytical techniques. For example, one lesson learned is that samples collected during an applicator’s work day generally contain concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds (PAHs) that are so low that they cannot be accurately measured by traditional portable chemical equipment and require the more sophisticated analytical capabilities only available in laboratories.

In 2017, PCTC’s goal is to help facilitate about 200 man-days

of participation in field sample collection by NIOSH. Achieving the goal will help ensure that NIOSH has an overview of different working conditions in different parts of the country. An important aspect of PCTC’s participation is to ensure that the industry understands NIOSH’s goals, procedures, analytical methods and its interpretation of monitoring results. Another aspect is to understand what companies and applicator crews can expect when volunteering to participate in the NIOSH study. PCTC has contracted with Dr. Mark Bookbinder, a scientist who has conducted similar studies in other industries, to help assist with both goals.

During the two pilot phase sampling events in 2016, NIOSH started by meeting with applicators and office personnel to explain the study. Each participant in the study must give his “informed consent” before being followed by NIOSH during work activities, wearing the equipment (such as the applicator in the photograph) and providing samples. Occupational studies such as these are governed by strict privacy rules and NIOSH is required to keep any personal information confidential.

To reach 200 man-days, NIOSH is looking for larger jobs.

If your company would consider participation in the NIOSH study this year, please contact me at alehuray@pavementcouncil.org.

Before introducing you to NIOSH, PCTC will help educate you about what to expect.

For more about PCTC visit www.pavementcouncil.org.

ForConstructionPros.com/12067423

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Jessica Stoikes, Associate Editor

Technology

Can Robots Help Repair Roads?

Addibots are being tested to fill cracks and potholes along our roadways, saving material costs and keeping workers out of danger 3D PRINTING is being used to create anything from artificial organs to skyscrapers, and the technology is only advancing in its capabilities.

3D printers however are large and heavy, which makes moving them around to a construction site or roadway, unrealistic.

The bigger ones have to be rigged from a gantry and outfitted with a large reservoir to hold the printing material — materials like concrete if it's a construction job.

Robert Flitsch, a recent engineering graduate from Harvard University, was unhappy about the fact 3D printers are rarely portable.

So Flitsch devised a compact model that has wheels and launched a start-up called Addibots that will produce and sell the little robots when they're ready for market in the next two or three years.

What, you might ask, does this have to do with the road building industry? Well if your job requires crackfilling or pothole repair, Flitsch and his Addibots are here to help.

Mr. Roboto In the simplest of terms, an Addibot is a combination of a 3D printer mounted

onto a moving robot. This achieves a mobile interface for additive manufacturing (AM). Although a very simple concept in these terms, this “mobile AM interface,” or the ability to move AM implements to any desired location or space, solves the issues and mobile limitations of large-scale 3D printing technologies and methods.

Many constructed surfaces exist in our world and these surfaces are subject to wear and over their lifetime. Flitsch asked how these repairs could be completed more quickly and precisely.

“Coupling computer vision capabilities with high resolution and precision AM implements, an Addibot is the perfect tool for many resurfacing applications, to either improve upon the methods or results of existing resurfacing applications, or to make new applications possible,” Flitsch says. “With road repair for example, Addibots can drive down a road and sense cracks or potholes while laying down material to fill and repair these defects at a constant driving speed. As well, with the same overall additive methods, Addibots are also able to construct entirely new surfaces, rather than just repairing them.”

Flitsch and his team believe that Addibots will help contractors and state DOTs complete more work faster, not replace members of the workforce.

“In many areas of the world, the amount of

necessary repair and construction tasks typically exceeds the bandwidth of the workforce employed to complete them,” Flitsch says. “When these tasks take too long to be completed because of a lack of bandwidth, the condition of the roads being unrepaired further deteriorates, making each task even more costly and time consuming by the time it can be resolved; with these inefficiencies causing further inefficiencies, the positive-feedback cycle continues, resulting in a poor road quality and higher cost of repairs for a given job.

“One of the main ways Addibots will solve these significant problems is by allowing for a drastic improvement in their bandwidth with respect to completing repair and construction.”

A Safe Solution Flitsch’s first prototype was used to fill in cracks on ice surfaces that had been scraped by ice skates. That prototype carries a tank of water that had been precooled to just above the freezing mark, then laid along cracks in the ice. This was important as a proof of concept for Flitsch.

Flitsch hopes his new models might be used for filling cracks or potholes in roadways. Like earlier prototypes, this one will have a series of printerheads attached to the undercarriage

and will be able to print, in a range of materials, directly onto the ground upon which it drives.

The little bots will use the raw material — hot mix — to build up surfaces layer by layer, much like a desktop 3D printer would, but without the same space constraints.

Flitsch says that space is one of the main limitations that 3D printers have.

"You have to be printing inside this box, and you can really only print objects of the size of the workspace you're printing in," he says.

Since Addibots run on wheels, they could be used for the maintenance of road surfaces, including repairs on busy highways where workers are exposed to the most risk.

"Addibots would be a great way to move workers out of danger,” Flitsch says.

“It’s envisioned that some unit types (particularly for high-speed roadways) will be large enough for operators to sit inside. In these cases, the operator will be better protected from the dangerous traffic while they conduct repairs or construction."

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Contractor Snapshot

Jessica Stoikes, Associate Editor

There’s More to Sealcoating than

Beauty

In a market where sustainability isn’t top of mind, Elite Asphalt Maintenance chooses to use only asphalt-based sealers ELITE ASPHALT MAINTENANCE didn’t start on top right away. Owner Dan Vander Wal II started in the industry in 2003 working for a local company in his hometown of Holland, MI. After being there for four years, Vander Wal took another job out of state in Pennsylvania, worked there for a season and then returned to Michigan wanting to start his own company.

“I started saving money and started to buy piece by piece the equipment I would need to start my own business,” Vander Wal says. “I started my company in 2011 with a truck and tote system. I reached out to another company who was still selling work but was no longer in the business of doing the work. I eventually bought him out in 2013 and have been growing ever since.”

Today, the company has two seal rigs, one is a 550-gal. truck mount unit with hydraulic agitation and a Husky 1590 pump.

The second is a SealMaster TR 550 Trailer Unit with hydraulic agitation. The company also has a 4-ton hot box and a 2-ton

dump box that they use for patching. Also in their fleet is a 100-gal. propane oil-jacketed melter used for cracksealing, a 30-gal. direct-fire rubber melter used for residential area and a Graco 3900 striping machine.

Vander Wal, along with three employees, complete seal coating, crack sealing and parking lot striping for all of Western Michigan.

“We do jobs of all sizes from big store parking lots to driveways,” Vander Wal says. “We serve west Michigan along the lake shore and our clientele has been steadily growing over the years. We have traveled across the state for a few jobs because of the specific sealer we use.”

“Sometimes customers are misled into believing that sealcoating is only for beautification purposes,” Dan Vander Wal.

Value of Sealcoating Elite Asphalt Maintenance prides themselves on ensuring their customers know the benefits of a strong pavement maintenance program and backs up their asphalt emulsion

sealcoating with a two-year warranty.

“Sometimes people are misled into believing sealcoating is only for beautification purposes,” Owner Da Vander Wal complete n Vander Wal and says. “Prothree emp crack sea lin lo for all of w g and parking lot yees fessional striping estern Mic higan. grade sealcoating not only extends the life of your asphalt investment, it makes the surface more resistant to dete“We have supported the rioration from gasoline, oil and local little league teams for chemicals. We offer a two-year the past four years and plan warranty for our services where to continue to do so,” Vander most companies, if they even Wal says. “Being involved in our offer a warranty, only guarantee community is important, not their work for one year.” only for our business to grow And since Michigan has but to have a positive impact known coal tar bans in areas on our community. We enjoy around the state, Vander Wal supporting the local rec teams, has chosen to only use Safe-Seal it is important for children to Asphalt Emulsion on their jobs. be able to play in sports and be “Safe-Seal gives you the healthy.” benefits of sealing and protectAnd his own children ing your pavement, but without are the reason Vander Wal the noxious odors,” Vander Wal strives to continually grow his says. “We are one of the few business. companies in Michigan using an “I started this company ‘eco-friendly’ sealer that is odorto better my family of six,” less. I want to have this product Vander Wal says. “My wife at the places that I visit with my Ashley and I have four boys. family and friends.”

She takes care of the office end of the business along with marGetting Involved keting and going out and lookAlong with supporting the ing at prospective work. We communities’ pavement mainhope one day when our boys tenance needs, Elite Asphalt is get older, they want to take heavily involved in community over the company and continservice. ue to grow it.”

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Index

PAVEMENT

Advertiser Index

Published by AC Business Media Inc.

PAGE

Auto Loc Transport Systems

32

B & E Seal Coat Products Inc.

34

Billy Goat

32

Boyd Equipment

30

Carlson Paving Products Inc.

67

Cimline Pavement Maintenance Group

10

Copperstate Hose

50

Crafco Inc.

23, 49

Crum & Forster A Fairfax Company

22

Deery

27

Diamond Shield Fortifier

30

Dickson Industries

40

Elgin

5

Gem-Seal Pavement Products

2

Graco

15

GuardTop

28

Kasi Infrared

43

Keystone Cutter

34

Keystone Plastics Inc.

28

LaserLine Manufacturing Inc.

35

LaserPoint Lasers

32

LeeBoy

11

Maintenance Inc.

35

M-B Companies Inc.

36

Mesabi

34

Midstates Equipment & Supply

62

MRL Equipment Company Inc.

31

Neal a division of Blastcrete Equipment

21

Neyra

37

REPRINTS Denise Singsime at (800) 538-5544 ext. 1245 dsingsime@ACBusinessMedia.com.

N. I. Wilson Mfg. Co. Inc.

34

Pavement Maintenance Supply

9

Quik Pave Products Inc.

42

LIST RENTAL Elizabeth Jackson, Account Executive, Merit Direct LLC, Phone: (847) 492-1350 ext. 18 • Fax: (847) 492-0085 • ejackson@meritdirect.com

SCR Inventions

36

SealMaster

68

Seal-Rite

47

Southern Emulsions Inc.

6

SOYSolv

62

Spaulding Mfg. Inc.

35

Star

39

Tymco

17

Unique Paving Materials Corp.

33

Waterblasting Technologies

29

Weiler

41

Wirtgen America Inc.

7

201 N. Main Street | Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 800.538-5544 • www.ACBusinessMedia.com www.ForConstructionPros.com/Pavement Editorial Office: Allan Heydorn, 2339 Stratford, Westchester, IL 60154 (708) 531-1612 | Fax: (708) 531-1613 | aheydorn@ACBusinessMedia.com PUBLICATION STAFF: Publisher: Amy Schwandt Editor/Conference Manager: Allan Heydorn Associate Editor: Jessica Stoikes Art Director: April Van Etten Ad Production Manager: Patti Brown Sr. Audience Development Manager: Wendy Chady Audience Development Manager: Angela Kelty ADVERTISING SALES: (800) 538-5544 Tom Lutzke, Jill Draeger, Eric Servais, Sean Dunphy, Amy Schwandt, Erica Finger, Denise Singsime FORCONSTRUCTIONPROS.COM WEBSITE: Digital Operations Manager: Nick Raether Digital Sales Manager: Monique Terrazas Editor: Larry Stewart Managing Editor: Kimberly Hegeman CHANGE OF ADDRESS & SUBSCRIPTIONS PO Box 3257, Northbrook, IL 60065-3257, Phone: (877) 201-3915 Fax: (800) 543-5055 • circ.pavement@omeda.com

AC BUSINESS MEDIA INC.: Chairman: Anil Narang President and CEO: Carl Wistreich Executive Vice President: Kris Flitcroft VP Content: Greg Udelhofen VP Marketing: Debbie George ADVISORY BOARD: ACI Asphalt Contractors Inc., Maple Grove, MN: Jim Bebo Asphalt Contractors Inc., Union Grove, WI: Robert Kordus Asphalt Restoration Technology Systems, Orlando, FL: Connie Lorenz Capitol Sweeping Service, South Windsor, CT: Thomas Kuhns Clean Sweep Inc., Chattanooga, TN, Pete Phillips Custom Maintenance Services, Shippensburg, PA: Michael Nawa Eosso Brothers Paving; Hazlet, NJ: Tom Eosso Parking Lot Maintenance, Lake St. Louis, MO, Todd Bruening Petra Paving, Hampstead, NH: Chris Tammany Pioneer Paving, Albuquerque, NM: Don Rooney Robert Liles Parking Lot Service, Tyler, TX: Robert Liles Roberts Traffic, Hollywood, FL: Lisa Birchfield Roccie’s Asphalt Paving, Stamford, CT: Vincent Engongoro Rose Paving Co., Bridgeview, IL: Alan J. Rose Show Striping Inc. (SSI), Wisconsin Dells, WI: Amber Showalter T&N Asphalt Services, Salt Lake City, UT: Nick Howell The Rabine Group, Schaumburg, IL: Gary Rabine Young Sealcoating Inc, Lynchburg, VA: Steve Young

Get fast, relevant product information in the Buyers Guide at

ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVES: Pavement Coatings Technology Council: Anne LeHuray, Executive Director

ForConstructionPros.com

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Tailgate Talk

|

Brad Humphrey

6 "Safety Nets" to Improve Worker Productivity LAST ISSUE WE looked at threats to crew productivity that might need a “safety net” so workers can give their best effort every day. This issue, let’s take a look at some specifics – and some “safety nets.”.

The first day on the job for a new employee.

The first day on a new job for an employee should leave them with nothing but affirmation that they made a wise career choice. When the new employee is provided a clear picture of what the company represents, who their customer is, what they will be doing and whom they will be working with, this same employee will gain confidence and be more excited to work harder…sooner!

The safety net here is to insure that every new employee is clearly welcomed to the company from their leader and work associates. Additionally, they should receive a “90-day Plan” that lines out what the new employee will be doing, when he or she will be learning new skills, where they might be working at and with whom they will be working.

Such a “net” will inspire early positive attitudes and create greater confidence within the employee that the company wants them to succeed and has prepared for their success!

The senior leader is not open to ideas or challenges.

This remains one of the oldest frustrations for many construction workers of all ages and experience levels.

Working for the manager who

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demonstrates little interest in new ideas and does not want their decisions or ideas to be challenged can quickly accelerate what I call the “motivational plunge” within promising and thinking employees.

The safety net here is that leaders must show visible proof that not only do they welcome new ideas, but that they appreciate workers who can challenge their ideas and past practices. Companies improve by challenging old processes and seeking new and innovative methods.

Lack of project planning and organization.

Nothing sends a clearer signal to employees than beginning a project without knowing what the job is, what will be needed, and what are the expectations. With all the proof today that planned jobs produce better results, it is unforgivable that any contractor would ever allow their crew leaders to begin work without a work plan for the day, a week or more “look ahead” schedule, and a confirmation that key performance, safety, and quality issues have been addressed.

The safety net for this issue is really quite simple. Every contractor should have in place, and consistently exercise, every organizational and planning tool available and appropriate for their specialty of work. Investing in such tools and executing them consistently will remove much of the fear of failure and instead unleash a clear production focus by all workers.

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4

Worker not being included as part of the team.

Many contractors simply never really developed a good, team-based work culture among their existing employees. This often leads to new employees being excluded from even the most basic activities, such as lunch.

The safety net for this issue is pure and simple: “socialization.” Humans have a need to interact with other human beings. When employees don't feel part of the group it can negatively impact morale, motivation and they’re at a high risk to leave. The “net” installed should engage education for all workers on communication skills, how to conduct “small talk,” and recognizing the benefits of different personalities and people who are “different.”

Fear of making mistakes.

Workers afraid of making a mistake is the “kiss of death” for a leader and company. I realize that a $100,000 mistake is different than a $500 mistake, and certainly we need to prevent repeating the same mistakes, but learning is greatly accelerated when mistakes are part of the learning process. Leaders must reduce the fear of making a mistake or risk employees giving less effort, providing fewer improvement suggestions, and producing less-profitable results.

Regular and consistent spoken reassurance affirming the need to work hard and smart without fear of “failing,” is the "net" here. The leader must

5

back up words with actions: don’t overreact, or worse, discipline or terminate a worker for a mistake.

A “micro-manager” or “control freak” boss.

I think these characterizations are misplaced. In most cases, the leader in question is simply following up on assigned tasks, making sure that what was expected to be done, was done! But, there are those leaders who can be almost obsessed with never “letting go”– the result being a real “motivational plunge” in workers attitudes.

This safety net is more challenging because it's the "control freak" leader who must learn to trust his workers, learn to more properly delegate, work to insure that the person taking the work understands the expectations, knows the systems and processes and understands the priority and timeline. This leader must understand how his actions can create frustrated and anxious employees who feel their leader doesn’t trust them or lack the faith in their execution – and the leader has to change!

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Brad Humphrey is president of Pinnacle Development Group,a consulting firm that specializes in the construction industry. See more of Brad’s advice for contractors by reading The Contractor’s Best Friend, also an AC Business Media service to the construction industry. For more information about Brad’s company, go to www.pinnacledg. com.

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