North American Sweeper - September 2026

2005-2026

2

SEPTEMBER 2026

JOIN THE CONVERSATION IN NOVEMBER EXPERIENCE MANUFACTURERS, TEST DRIVE EQUIPMENT, LEARN FROM EXPERT PANELISTS, MAKE BUSINESS DECISIONS, MEET WITH MUNICIPALITY DECISION MAKERS

NOVEMBER 3-4, 2026 SAN ANTONIO, TX 15TH ANNUAL

NEW THIS YEAR! CLEAN STREETS = CLEANER WATERS, THE INITIATIVE WHERE STREET CLEANING AND STORM WATER INDUSTRIES UNITE

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BUILT FOR THE REAL WORLD ODRA sweepers are built for real-world work, where uptime matters, maintenance

Powerful hydraulics = Consistent sweeping, even in heavy debris

can’t wait, and complexity costs you. Every model is designed to be easy to run, easy

Non-CDL = More available drivers, faster staffing

to maintain, and powerful enough for the toughest sweeping conditions.

Super-simple maintenance = Less downtime, faster repairs Low ownership costs = Lower lifetime

Ready to upgrade your fleet? Contact ODRA to experience dependable

cost per unit No CAN-bus electrical = No complex

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diagnostics or dealer delays

CONTACT US

Learn more or book a demo with us today!

SEE US AT BOOTH 1907

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+1 (844) 888-6372 info@odrasweeper.com www.odrasweeper.com ODRA®, MT4H®, ODRA MT4H®, MS5H® and ODRA MS5H® are registered trademarks of ODRA LLC in the United States. © 2026 ODRA LLC. All rights reserved.

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Quality Starts with the Bristle The difference isn’t the broom, it’s the bristle. At Keystone, we don’t buy it, we make it. Our bristle is engineered for maximum flick, longer life, and better performance on the street. That’s why more OEMs and contractors trust Keystone. Made in the USA for over 80 years.

Learn more at kpbrush.com/bristle

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SE P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C AN SWEEPER 3

SEPTEMBER 2026 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 9

CONTENTS

FEATURES 8

Sweeper Summit 2026 The Future of Street Sweeping Starts in San Antonio November 2nd

14 Increasing Productivity During Fall Sweeping Six ways municipalities can accomplish more before winter arrives 22 Raising the Standard: Connection, Education and the Future of Power Sweeping 28 First Impressions Matter: Why Your Sweeper Fleet is Your Best Marketing Tool 30 How Power Sweeping Extends Asphalt Lifespan and Protects Pavement Investments 34 Index of Advertisers CEO & PUBLISHER Gideon W. Smith SENIOR EDITOR Katherine Nolan ADVERTISING Tracy Rodean Phoenix Global Media Inc. P.O. Box 235, Stockton New Jersey 08559 866-418-4400 phone 973-532-0319 fax sales@nasweeper.com North American Sweeper Magazine is published by Phoenix Global Media Inc. Copyright 2026 by Phoenix Global Media Inc. All rights reserved.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Melissa Kennelly EDITORIAL MANAGER Heidi Karpinich CIRCULATION Noah Aiden SUBSCRIPTIONS $15.00 per year, or by eligible request.

POSTMASTER: Please send changes to North American Sweeper Magazine P.O. Box 235, Stockton New Jersey 08559

Opinions expressed in editorial submissions contributed to North American Sweeper Magazine are those of the individual authors exclusively and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of North American Sweeper Magazine, its staff, its advertisers, or its readership. North American Sweeper Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility toward independently contributed editorial submissions or any typographical errors, mistakes, misprints, or missing information within advertising copy.

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SEE US AT BOOTH 2631

SEE US AT BOOTH 455

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Broom Bear

®

T H E L E G E N DA R Y P O W E R BEHIND SWEEPING

SEE US AT BOOTH 1701

• Non-CDL version available • Mechanical sweeping to handle heavy applications like millings • Independent broom control for in-the-cut precision • Single engine for fuel economy and less maintenance

Multiple Fuel Configurations

Diesel, CNG, Hybrid & 100% Electric

• Simple start-up procedure with easy-to-operate controls

Questions?

B U I L T F O R C L E A N . B A C K E D F O R LIFE.

Ask an Expert! ©2023 Elgin Sweeper Company

SWEEPER SUMMIT 2026

The Future of Street Sweeping Starts in San Antonio November 2nd

Celebrating its 15th year, the Sweeper Summit comes

unofficially begins Monday evening, November 2nd,

to the beautiful La Cantera Resort & Spa in San

with a Happy Hour mixer, setting the stage for two days

Antonio, where attendees from across the country will

of industry-leading education, hands-on exhibits, and

gather to learn, collaborate, and build relationships

multiple networking opportunities.

that extend well beyond the conference. The event

Tuesday features the official opening of the

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Celebrating its 15th year, the Sweeper Summit comes to the beautiful La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, where attendees from across the country will gather to learn, collaborate, and build relationships that extend well beyond the conference.

Sweeper Summit, highlighted by a student water-

continues into the evening with a relaxed After-Hours

quality program, an afternoon at Topgolf, and the

gathering poolside.

Welcome Reception, where attendees can reconnect

On Wednesday, attendees will take part in expert-

with colleagues, meet exhibitors, and discover the

led panels, stormwater discussions, leadership

latest innovations shaping the industry. Networking

development sessions, the Outdoor Equipment Expo,

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SE P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C AN SWEEPER 9

As always, registration includes all educational sessions, meals, beverages, networking events, and

While the educational sessions

scheduled activities.

deliver valuable insights,

MORE THAN A CONFERENCE

some of the most impactful

The Sweeper Summit isn’t built around a traditional conference agenda—it’s built around meaningful

moments happen outside the

connections.

meeting room.

While the educational sessions deliver valuable insights, some of the most impactful moments happen outside the meeting room. Whether attendees are checking out equipment at the Outdoor Expo, sharing

and indoor exhibits showcasing the latest products

a meal, riding in a sweeper, or enjoying friendly

and services. The Summit concludes with the Soirée

competition at Topgolf, the Sweeper Summit creates

Cocktail Reception and Gala Dinner, celebrating

opportunities for conversations that simply can’t

another year of advancing the power sweeping

happen in a lecture setting.

industry together.

These informal interactions bring together

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contractors, municipal leaders, manufacturers,

member, Texas Site Services, the initiative showcases

vendors, and stormwater professionals to exchange

the sweeping industry’s commitment to protecting

ideas, solve challenges, and gain new perspectives.

water quality while building meaningful connections

Contractors share real-world operational experiences,

within the San Antonio community.

municipal leaders discuss evolving regulations and

The afternoon moves to Topgolf, sponsored by

community needs, and manufacturers hear firsthand

United Rotary Brush, where casual competition and

how their equipment performs in the field and where

conversation set the stage for meaningful networking

innovation is needed most.

and fun. Enjoy lunch and a beverage and, if you’re

Tuesday morning kicks off with Only Rain Down

game, try out your golfing skills. The Welcome

the Drain, an educational outreach program where

Reception is the evening’s main event and runs from

local students use chalk art to illustrate an important

6:00pm-9:00pm. The evening concludes poolside with

environmental message: clean streets lead to cleaner

the After-Hours After Glow.

waterways. The program demonstrates how proper

These events are intentionally designed to bring

street sweeping helps keep pollutants out of storm

people together—helping first-time attendees quickly

drains and waterways. Supported by 1-800-SWEEPER

feel part of the community while giving longtime

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 11

participants the chance to reconnect, strengthen

and stormwater management. The National Municipal

partnerships, and turn conversations into opportunities

Stormwater Alliance (NMSA), the Water Environment

that extend well beyond the Summit.

Association of Texas, the San Antonio River Authority,

THE STREET-TO-WATER CONNECTION

and the San Antonio River Foundation connect

Street sweeping does more than keep roads clean—it

contractors, manufacturers, municipalities, and water

helps protect water quality. When it rains, leaves,

professionals around a common goal: cleaner streets

sediment, litter, tire particles, oils, and other pollutants

and cleaner waterways.

can wash into storm drains and flow directly into local

That collaboration is strengthened by industry

waterways. Street sweepers remove much of this

partners; TYMCO as the 2026 Title Sponsor, ODRA

material before it becomes stormwater pollution.

serving as Truck Stop Prime Partner, NAPSA supports

While the industry has long measured success by miles

the leadership workshop, while Pritchard Commercial,

swept and hours worked, today’s municipalities also want

Stewart-Amos Sweeper Co., Knight Insurance Group,

to understand the environmental impact. Documenting

Keystone Plastics, and Texas Site Services help make

what is removed from streets helps communities

education, networking, and community outreach

demonstrate water-quality benefits, justify resources, and

programs possible.

strengthen pollution-reduction programs.

The Sweeper Summit won’t answer every question

That’s the idea behind Clean Streets = Cleaner

about stormwater management, but it creates

Waters (CS=CW). Led by the National Municipal

something just as valuable— a place where the right

Stormwater Alliance (NMSA), the initiative brings

people can share ideas, build partnerships, and move

together stormwater professionals, municipalities,

the industry forward. Contractors gain insight into

manufacturers, and contractors to develop practical,

municipal needs, manufacturers hear directly from

consistent ways to measure and communicate the

operators, and stormwater professionals see how

environmental value of street sweeping. It focuses on

sweeping contributes to cleaner waterways.

practical questions: what should be measured, how

The industry has spent decades cleaning streets. In

results can be reported consistently, what information

San Antonio, it has the opportunity to demonstrate that

is useful to a municipal program and what an operator

street sweeping is also an essential part of protecting

can reasonably collect in the field.

our water.

The goal is simple: provide cities with the data they need to recognize street sweeping not just

For the latest agenda, sponsor

as maintenance, but as an essential water-quality

information, and registration details,

management practice, opening stronger municipal

visit SweeperSummit.com.

partnerships and new opportunities for contractors and manufacturers.

THE RIGHT PEOPLE IN THE SAME ROOM The Sweeper Summit brings together the organizations shaping the future of street sweeping

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JOB OPPORTUNITY MECHANICAL ENGINEER Kent, WA.

Design mechanical and structural components for street sweepers. Design hydraulic and electrical systems that integrate with commercial, on-highway vehicles. Design non-metallic parts manufactured in fiberglass, PE, or ABS material. Investigate, refine, and test regenerative air systems for street sweepers. Create detailed component part and assembly drawings. Create Bills of Materials (BOM) for design layout and assembly drawings. Provide technical support to clients regarding products. Coordinate fabrication personnel to produce functional prototypes and fixtures for new designs. Analyze and test prototypes to ensure they meet quality, safety, and performance standards.

Create technical documentation for production and customer use. Create Engineering Change Orders (ECO) and perform any related changes to the designs and drawings. Define technical specifications that meet performance, cost, and quality requirements. Program and troubleshoot components using Controller Area Network (CAN) communication protocol. Manage Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) records including item attributes, Bill of Materials (BOM), and manufacturing routings. Direct fabrication and installation activities to ensure products conform to engineering design specifications. Participate with cross-functional teams, across Alamo Group companies, on large scale projects such as product transfers and electrification initiatives. Provide technical knowledge to purchasing teams to help identify strategic vendors and source materials. Collaborate with vendors to provide drawing clarification, part specifications, and resolve quality issues. Plan, prioritize, and organize work using task management software.. Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering required. Ability to communicate effectively with clients, work collaboratively with team members, and draft technical documentation required. Ability to wear protective equipment including steel-toed shoes required. Position requires 24 months’ work experience as a Mechanical Engineer, including minimum 12 months’ experience in each of the following: using SolidWorks software to produce detailed 3D and 2D design drawings; reading hydraulic & electrical schematics to troubleshoot hydraulic & electrical circuits; designing fiberglass, PE or ABS parts; maintaining, testing & analyzing regenerative air systems; using Standardized Manufacturing Process to push new & existing designs through cross-functional workflow that drives downstream customer processes; using Oracle JDE to manage ERP records; facilitating Requests for Quotes and supplier collaboration reviews with vendors; and using Asana task management software to schedule and track work. Occasional weekend or evening hours. Domestic travel to company and client sites throughout the United States required approximately once per six months for several days to provide technical services. Relocation will not be necessary for these trips. Salary $87,110/year. Send resume to tohlgren@nitehawksweepers.com w w w. na sweeper.co m

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 13

ADVERTORIAL

INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY DURING FALL SWEEPING

Six ways municipalities can accomplish more before winter arrives

Fall presents a unique challenge for street sweeping

How can you maintain productivity while conditions

operations. Unlike spring cleanup, where crews focus

change almost daily?

on removing accumulated winter sand, salt and debris,

As communities prepare for winter, a proactive

autumn brings a constantly changing stream of leaves,

approach to fall sweeping can help crews accomplish

organic material and stormwater concerns.

more work, reduce downtime and keep stormwater

The challenge goes beyond removing more debris:

systems functioning properly.

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As communities prepare for winter, a proactive approach to fall sweeping can help crews accomplish more work, reduce downtime and keep stormwater systems functioning properly.

Here are six ways municipalities can improve

Leaf accumulation rarely occurs evenly across a

productivity during fall sweeping season.

community. Streets lined with mature deciduous trees

1. ADJUST ROUTES BEFORE LEAF DROP PEAKS

can require significantly more attention than other

One of the most common mistakes municipalities make

areas, while business districts and neighborhoods with

is treating fall routes the same way they treat summer

younger tree canopies may need fewer passes.

routes.

Identifying high-volume leaf areas early allows crews

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 15

ADVERTORIAL

to adjust sweeping frequency before debris becomes overwhelming. More frequent sweeping often results

Storm drains, curb lines and low-

in smaller, more manageable loads and less time

lying collection points should

spent addressing clogged storm drains and problem

receive special attention during fall maintenance programs.

areas.

2. FOCUS ON PREVENTING PROBLEMS, NOT JUST CLEANING THEM

Clearing these areas before major

Leaves rarely create problems on their own.

rain events can help prevent localized

A bigger issue occurs when leaves combine with

flooding and reduce emergency

sediment, litter and other debris to restrict water flow.

response calls.

Storm drains, curb lines and low-lying collection points should receive special attention during fall maintenance programs. Clearing these areas before

continued on page 12

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TARGET CLASSES • Power Sweeping • Porter Service • Catch Basin Service

AVAILABLE COVERAGE 4 Auto Liability Physical Damage 4 General Liability 4 Umbrella 4 Workers Compensation

4 Property/Equipment 4 Employee Benefits 4 Payroll/HR Services 4 Surety Bonds

WORLD INSURANCE IS PROUD TO PRESENT

Our Exclusive National Power Sweeping Insurance Program Your Agent Can Now Access This Program For You!

Contact Scott Cerosky at 800-660-6934 ext 355 scottcerosky@worldinsurance.com w w w. na sweeper.co m

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 17

ADVERTORIAL

major rain events can help prevent localized flooding

material and larger debris, while regenerative air and

and reduce emergency response calls.

vacuum sweepers such as the Elgin Crosswind1 and

A preventive approach often proves more productive

Elgin RegenX1 excel at removing finer particles and

than repeatedly responding to the same trouble spots

supporting environmental cleanup objectives.

throughout the season.

Understanding the strengths of each machine in a fleet

3. MATCH THE SWEEPER TO THE APPLICATION

allows municipalities to deploy equipment where it will

Fall sweeping conditions can vary greatly depending

have the greatest impact and productivity.

on a variety of factors.

4. OPTIMIZE EQUIPMENT SETTINGS

Heavy leaf accumulation, construction debris, fine dust

Small adjustments can have a significant impact on

and stormwater management applications may require

sweeping performance.

different sweeping technologies. Mechanical broom

Before peak leaf season arrives, operators should

sweepers such as the Elgin Eagle or Elgin Broom

review manufacturer recommendations for broom

Bear are often effective for handling heavy organic

pressure, broom angle, pickup head settings and

continued on page 14

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SEE US AT BOOTH 455

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 19

ADVERTORIAL

6. PREPARE FOR WINTER WHILE YOU’RE STILL SWEEPING Fall sweeping is about more than leaves.

Operators should also pay close

It’s also an opportunity to prepare infrastructure and

attention to hopper capacity and

equipment for winter conditions. Clearing debris

debris buildup. Cleaning equipment

from stormwater systems helps reduce freeze-related drainage issues, while preventive maintenance

regularly throughout the season helps

ensures sweepers are ready for the demands of snow

maintain consistent performance and

season and early spring cleanup.

reduces unnecessary downtime.

Municipalities that combine fall sweeping with winter preparation often experience fewer equipment issues and a smoother transition between seasons.

PRODUCTIVITY STARTS WITH PLANNING The most productive fall sweeping programs don’t happen by accident. They result from proactive route

water application rates. Improper settings can reduce pickup efficiency, increase broom wear and create unnecessary rework.

A properly adjusted sweeper collects more material in a single pass and helps maximize productivity throughout the shift.

5. REDUCE DOWNTIME THROUGH DAILY

planning, proper equipment deployment, routine maintenance and a commitment to preventing problems before they occur.

By taking a strategic approach to fall sweeping, municipalities can improve operational efficiency, protect infrastructure and enter winter with cleaner streets and greater confidence.

INSPECTIONS Fall sweeping places unique demands on equipment.

Leaves, sticks and hidden debris can create wear and tear that isn’t always immediately visible. Daily inspections of brooms, conveyors, pickup heads, hydraulic systems and water systems help identify

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Elgin’s complete line of street sweepers, visit ElginSweeper.com.

potential issues before they become costly repairs.

Operators should also pay close attention to hopper capacity and debris buildup. Cleaning equipment regularly throughout the season helps maintain consistent performance and reduces unnecessary downtime.

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Raising the Standard: Connection, Education and the Future of Power Sweeping

By Nancy Terry, Executive Director, North American Power Sweeping Association

The power sweeping industry has changed considerably over the years. Equipment has

Across North America, sweeping

become more sophisticated, customers

contractors routinely face many

have higher expectations, safety and

of the same challenges — finding

environmental considerations continue to

and retaining employees, managing

evolve, and contractors are increasingly

equipment costs, improving safety,

expected to demonstrate professionalism in

responding to customer expectations

every aspect of their operations.

and identifying ways to operate more

Yet one thing has remained constant:

efficiently.

much of the industry’s progress comes from professionals learning from one another.

That is one of the roles the North American Power Across North America, sweeping contractors

Sweeping Association (NAPSA) seeks to fill.

routinely face many of the same challenges—

CREATING CONNECTIONS IN A

finding and retaining employees, managing

SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY

equipment costs, improving safety, responding

For owners and managers of sweeping companies,

to customer expectations and identifying ways to

it can sometimes be difficult to find peers who truly

operate more efficiently. While every company and

understand the day-to-day realities of the business.

market is different, there is tremendous value in

Industry-specific networking helps bridge that gap.

having a network of people who understand those

Through forums such as Power Sweeping Pros on

challenges firsthand.

Facebook, educational events including Sweeper

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WE CAN CREATE A RENTAL PROGRAM TO ALIGN WITH SWEEPING CONTRACTS YOU HAVE WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 23

Summit and PaveX, and informal gatherings such as

ESTABLISHING STANDARDS FOR

Sweepers Night Out, contractors have opportunities to

PROFESSIONALISM

exchange information, discuss challenges and build

Connection is only one part of strengthening an

relationships with others in the field.

industry. Establishing recognizable standards for

Those relationships often become resources long

quality, safety and professionalism is another.

after an event has ended.

NAPSA has been involved in the development of the

“Networking with other members has been one of the most

ANSI standard for power sweeping, an effort designed

valuable parts of my membership,” says Debbie Jacketta of

to establish recognized practices for the profession.

Jacketta Sweeping. “You can always find someone who’s

The association also offers NAPSA Certification

been there, done that, and is willing to help.”

as a means for companies to demonstrate their

That willingness to exchange knowledge is

commitment to professional operating practices.

particularly valuable in a specialized industry. A

These initiatives have implications beyond

conversation about staffing, equipment, bidding

association membership.

or operations may provide a solution that would

Industry standards help contractors understand

otherwise take months—or an expensive mistake—to

accepted practices, provide customers with a clearer

discover independently.

picture of what they should expect from a professional

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sweeping company and create benchmarks that can help elevate the

Connection is only one part of strengthening an industry.

reputation of the industry as a whole.

Establishing recognizable standards for quality, safety and

As customers become more

professionalism is another..

sophisticated in their purchasing decisions, the ability to demonstrate training, safety practices and adherence to professional standards can also help distinguish qualified contractors in a competitive marketplace.

EDUCATION THAT REFLECTS THE REAL WORLD Formal education is valuable, but some of the most useful lessons in business come from people who have already encountered the same problem.

Industry education creates an opportunity to combine both.

Programs and educational sessions

TRUE REGENERATIVE AIR SWEEPING !

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Model 600® COMDEX ® Street Sweeper

Model 500x® High Side Dump

Model 435® COMDEX ® Mid-Sized Street Sweeper

Model 210® COMDEX ® Parking Lot Sweeper

offered through events such as Sweeper Summit and PaveX allow contractors to learn about issues affecting their operations while also exchanging ideas with other professionals.

That peer-to-peer component can be especially important for smaller companies, where owners often wear multiple hats and may not have large management teams available to help evaluate every operational decision.

It also creates opportunities for experienced professionals to mentor those who are newer to the industry.

Because swept is not always clean, call TYMCO. Our Regenerative Air Sweepers blast into pavement cracks with up to a 250 mph controlled jet of air, forcing up even the finest sand and particulates into a totally enclosed system — never exhausting dirty air as do vacuum sweepers. All with only a few moving parts, reducing maintenance cost and downtime.

Schedule a Demonstration Today !

1-800-258-9626 www.tymco.com

Model 600 Illustration

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 25

association—or who simply want to become more connected with others in the sweeping community—it

A stronger network of informed,

may be worth taking a closer look.

After all, a stronger network of informed, professional

professional contractors doesn’t

contractors doesn’t just benefit individual companies.

just benefit individual companies,

It strengthens the power sweeping industry as a whole.

It strengthens the power sweeping

About NAPSA

industry as a whole.

The North American Power Sweeping Association (NAPSA) provides education, professional development, industry resources, networking opportunities and programs designed to support professionalism within the power

A STRONGER INDUSTRY BENEFITS EVERYONE

sweeping industry.

Associations naturally provide benefits to their members, including education, networking, professional resources, supplier relationships and other programs.

But the broader impact of an active trade association can extend well beyond its membership.

When companies adopt better safety practices, the industry becomes safer. When contractors operate

LEARN MORE North American Power Sweeping Association www.powersweeping.org info@power5sweeping.org

more professionally, customer expectations rise. When experienced operators share knowledge with the next generation, valuable expertise remains within the profession.

And when an industry can speak collectively about standards, education and the challenges affecting its businesses, it has a stronger voice.

That requires participation.

The future of power sweeping will ultimately be shaped by the contractors, employees, manufacturers, suppliers and other professionals working in it today. Sharing knowledge, supporting professional standards and becoming involved in industry initiatives are all ways to contribute to that future.

NAPSA provides one avenue for doing so.

For professionals who have never explored the

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BUSINESS CORNER

First Impressions Matter: Why Your Sweeper Fleet is Your Best Marketing Tool

Before your crew drops a gutter broom, turns on the vacuum fan, or sweeps a single square foot of pavement, your truck

First impressions don’t just

has already spoken for your company. In

earn quick compliments —

the street sweeping industry—whether you serve retail centers, residential HOAs, construction sites, or municipalities—clients make split-second decisions about your

they win contract renewals, high-value referrals, and your next major account. .

reliability the moment your rig pulls onto the property. While thorough debris removal and dependable service are essential for longterm success, your equipment delivers the

immediate confidence, reassuring decision-makers that their roadways and parking lots are in capable hands. Conversely, a battered, leaking, or filthy

initial message—and first impressions set the

sweeper can raise red flags before the job even starts.

tone for every contract.

WINNING CONTRACT RENEWALS AND REFERRALS

BUILDING IMMEDIATE TRUST WITH

Visual appeal on the pavement translates directly into

PROPERTY MANAGERS

long-term revenue. First impressions don’t just earn

Street sweeping is fundamentally about clean

quick compliments—they win contract renewals,

presentation, safety, and property maintenance.

high-value referrals, and your next major account.

When property managers, site superintendents, or city

Property managers want contractors who enhance

officials see a clean, well-maintained sweeper arrive

the image of their real estate, not vehicles that look

on-site, it instantly signals operational excellence. A

like liabilities parked outside premier commercial

sharp, properly branded fleet tells clients that you pay

centers or corporate parks. A professional presentation

attention to detail and uphold strict standards across

makes clients proud to recommend your services to

every facet of your business. That visual proof instills

neighboring properties and general contractors.

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brand image. Keeping your fleet looking sharp ensures that every mile driven builds authority and brand awareness across your service area.

SETTING THE STANDARD FOR GROWTH Before your team heads out on the next route, consider a simple question: What does your sweeper say about your business? Prioritizing fleet presentation builds instant credibility, reinforces client loyalty, and establishes a strong foundation for long-term business growth.

YOUR MOBILE BILLBOARD ACROSS THE CITY Every vehicle in your fleet acts as a high-visibility rolling billboard. As your sweepers travel between jobsites, navigate commercial corridors, and cover municipal routes, they are constantly advertising your

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BUSINESS CORNER

How Power Sweeping Extends Asphalt Lifespan and Protects Pavement Investments

For commercial property managers, facility supervisors, and municipal public works departments, asphalt is one of the most substantial ongoing capital assets to manage. Asphalt paving, sealcoating, and resurfacing

Leaf season puts unique demands on power sweepers. Heavy, wet leaves require maximum suction, pristine head seals, and properly tuned broom pressure. Waiting until the

represent major financial commitments,

leaves hit the asphalt to test your gear is

yet many property owners inadvertently

a recipe for costly downtime.

accelerate pavement deterioration by neglecting a fundamental preventative maintenance practice: regular power

1. REMOVING ABRASIVE DEBRIS: PREVENTING

sweeping.

MECHANICAL WEAR

While routine power sweeping is

Asphalt surfaces are composed of aggregate (gravel, sand, and crushed stone) bound together by a

frequently viewed as a cosmetic

petroleum-based asphalt cement. When vehicles

service designed to keep parking

drive over pavement, loose sand, fine gravel, dirt, and

lots and roadways looking tidy, its

construction debris act like sandpaper under heavy tires.

Every vehicle passing over unmanaged debris grinds

core engineering value goes far

those abrasive particles directly into the asphalt

deeper. Regular sweeping plays a vital

surface. This constant friction wears down the top

structural role in extending asphalt life, maintaining structural integrity, and avoiding costly early repaving.

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protective seal, exposes the aggregate underneath, and strips away fine binder materials. Over time, this mechanical abrasion creates surface raveling—a process where aggregate particles dislodge, leaving a

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rough, porous surface prone to rapid breakdown.

matter naturally wash into gutters and catch basins.

By routinely removing sand, dirt, and loose gravel

When these materials block storm drains, rainwater has

through regenerative air or mechanical sweeping, you

nowhere to run. Instead, it pools on top of the asphalt.

eliminate the abrasive medium entirely, preserving

Standing water begins breaking down the chemical

the smooth outer layer and structural binder of your

bonds of the asphalt binder while gradually seeping

pavement.

into pre-existing micro-cracks.

2. PROTECTING STORM DRAINS AND MITIGATING

In colder climates, water trapped in those cracks

WATER DAMAGE

undergoes freeze-thaw cycles. As trapped water

Water is asphalt’s single greatest enemy. When water

freezes, it expands by roughly 9%, forcing cracks wider

penetrates the surface or pools for extended periods,

and triggering severe structural failures like potholes

it weakens the subbase foundation beneath the

and alligatored pavement. Routine sweeping clears

pavement, leading to soft spots, sagging, depressions,

debris before it reaches storm inlets, ensuring free-

and ultimately severe cracking.

flowing drainage and keeping standing water off your

Accumulated leaves, trash, sediment, and organic

asphalt.

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 31

BUSINESS CORNER

weaken surface binders over time.

Power sweeping removes accumulated organic

It is far more cost-effective to maintain pavement proactively than to repair

material and redistributes minor oil drippings before they can concentrate and penetrate deeply into the pavement matrix. Combined with immediate spotcleaning of major spills, sweeping neutralizes chemical threats before lasting structural damage occurs.

or replace it reactively.

4. MAXIMIZING SEALCOATING AND

Replacing or repaving an asphalt

Maintaining asphalt requires periodic maintenance

MAINTENANCE LONGEVITY

parking lot or roadway costs

routines, including crack sealing, sealcoating, and

dollars per square foot, whereas

cannot adhere properly to dirty, dusty, or debris-laden

routine power sweeping costs only pennies per square foot.

line striping. However, these protective treatments pavement.

If a property is sealcoated over a layer of fine dust or sand, the sealant adheres to the dirt rather than the asphalt substrate. Within months, the new sealcoat peels, flakes, and fails prematurely, wasting significant maintenance dollars. Thorough, heavy-duty sweeping is the mandatory first step in preparing asphalt for

3. PREVENTING CHEMICAL AND

any surface treatment, ensuring maximum adhesion,

ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION

longevity, and return on investment for sealcoating

Parking lots and roadways are constantly subjected

projects.

to automotive fluids, including motor oil, gasoline,

A SMALL INVESTMENT WITH SUBSTANTIAL ROI

diesel fuel, transmission fluid, and coolant. Petroleum-

It is far more cost-effective to maintain pavement

based fluids share the same chemical base as asphalt

proactively than to repair or replace it reactively.

binder. When oil or fuel drips onto asphalt and sits

Replacing or repaving an asphalt parking lot or

unaddressed, it acts as a solvent—softening and

roadway costs dollars per square foot, whereas routine

liquefying the petroleum binder holding the stone

power sweeping costs only pennies per square foot.

aggregate together.

By integrating regular power sweeping into your

Once the binder breaks down, the asphalt becomes

facility management plan, you achieve far more than a

soft, spongy, and prone to gouging and deep rutting

clean appearance:

under vehicle weight. Furthermore, organic debris like

4 You eliminate abrasive wear caused by dirt and grit.

wet leaves and grass clippings produce acids as they

4 You maintain effective storm drainage and prevent

decay. These organic acids degrade sealcoatings and

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water infiltration.

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4 You protect binder integrity from chemical and organic decay.

4 You extend the usable lifespan of your sealcoating and pavement assets.

Power sweeping is not merely a cosmetic expense— it is a critical, high-return preventative maintenance strategy that safeguards your asphalt investment for years to come.

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 33

INDEX Bensink...........................................................................................4 704-658-1333 / buchermunicipal.com

Schwarze Industries Inc.................................................................5 800-879-7933 / schwarze.com

Eagle Eye Tracking.......................................................................11 855-338-7225

SEALMATE....................................................................................19 sealmate.com

Elgin Sweeper Company................................................................7 elginregenx.com

Sharpco Sweeper Shoes................................................................4 313-343-4328/800-372-5007/sharpcosweepershoes.com

FMI Truck Sales & Service...........................................................24 800-927-8750

Skavin’jer Street Sweepers..........................................................34 888-652-2137 / skavinjer.com

Gregory Highway..........................................................................21 866-994-4929 / gregoryhighway.com

Street Smart..................................................................................23 888-653-6800 / streetsmartrental.com

KeyStone Street Sweeping Brooms..............................................3 800-635-5238 / kpbrush.com

Sweeper Summit & Equipment Expo......................................... FC SweeperSummit.com

NAPSA..........................................................................................13 info@powersweeping.org

Trinity Highway.............................................................................27 888-323-6374 / trinityhighway.com

Nite-Hawk Sweepers..........................................................6, 13, 19 800-448-9364 / nitehawksweepers.com

Tymco............................................................................................25 800-258-9626 / tymco.com

Nomad.........................................................................................BC 450-530-9873 / balaisnomad.com

United Rotary Brush Corporation..................................................6 800-851-5108 / united-rotary.com

The ODB Co..................................................................................35 800-446-9823 / www.odbco.com

Vacuum Sales Inc...........................................................................3 800-547-7790 / vacuumsalesinc.com

ODRA Sweeper...............................................................................2 844-888-6372 / odrasweeper.com

Victory Sweeper...........................................................................27 844-479-3373 / victorysweepers.com

Pat’s Pump & Blower....................................................................29 800-359-7867 / patspump.com

World Insurance...........................................................................17 866-793-9999

Safety Vision.................................................................................33 800-851-4764 / safetyvision.com

Xpress Sweeping Inc....................................................................29 401-523-6116 / xpresssweeping.com

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