Discover the Many Benefits of Full-Depth Reclamation

Full-depth reclamation is a technique that can offer various advantages. This process is a cost saving, environmentally smart solution to extend the life of your asphalt surface.  

What is full-depth reclamation? 

Full-depth reclamation (FDR) is the process of pulverizing asphalt pavement, resulting in a stabilized course. During this process, the pulverized layers are able to be reclaimed and used as pavement. This technique is commonly used with pavements that have major issues.  

What are the types of Full Depth Reclamation? 

• Mechanical Stabilization: includes the addition of aggregate materials 
• Chemical Stabilization: includes the addition of lime, cement, or fly ash 
• Bituminous Stabilization: includes the addition of asphalt based emulsions or foamed asphalt  

Intersted in the process of Full Depth Reclamation? Check out this video. 

What are some of the advantages of Full Depth Reclamation?

Cost-Effective

This process has proven to be cost effective as it creates long lasting pavement, lending to less repairs down the road. The FDR process creates a higher load carrying capacity and also reduces moisture susceptibility. The result is a stronger, longer-lasting surface. Combine that with the cost-savings, and Full Depth Reclamation becomes an even more attractive alternative to completely removing and installing a new asphalt surface.
More owners are discovering they can save 30%-50% of total project costs when they let the experts at Byrne & Jones Construction perform the Full Depth Reclamation process on their worn-out asphalt parking lots.

Environmentally Friendly  

Since this technique uses reclaimed material, it has less of an impact on the environment. Head of Byrne & Jones Construction Asphalt Division, Kevin Klette says, “Instead of having to dig up and remove the old asphalt surface before installing a new one, FDR pulverizes the old surface, compacts it, and then we mix an additive that creates a stronger base for the asphalt mix.” According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, 2.4 million metric tons of CO2e were spared from the atmosphere in 2019 through the use of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in new mixtures.  

This technique allows for the conservation of energy and material. According to Klette, “Full Depth Reclamation offers more than just cost-savings. It helps conserve energy since there’s no need to haul away or import new materials. It saves natural resources and energy since it recycles existing material and it eliminates material disposal concerns, making it a much more environmentally-friendly route to take.” 

Full Depth Reclamation requires a variety of specialized equipment that most asphalt paving contractors simply do not have. Byrne & Jones Construction not only has the equipment, but also has the know-how to perform the variety of steps involved throughout the process. If you are interested in seeing Byrne & Jones Construction’s work in person then call and ask about our jobs at Watlow Electric or Ladue Middle School. To schedule a live recycling demo, contact Brett Gaither at 314-254-9766.