Full Depth Reclamation Services in Sacramento, CA

Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) is a way to recycle an existing pavement and its sub base and use it to create a newly paved area. It is both a cost effective and green solution because it reuses the old asphalt and avoids the cost of new materials and transportation for that material. FDR is accomplished using special equipment that churns up and pulverizes the existing pavement before mixing it with a binding agent (usually cement or lime) which is compacted.

Then the “new” surface is compacted and placed over the top (either asphalt or concrete).

FDR currently averages between $11 and $20 per square foot of rehabilitated pavement. Choosing full depth reclamation to rehabilitate your pavement instead of tearing it out and laying down new pavement generally saves you between 20% and 30% of the cost for new pavement.

First, we use a large machine called a pulverizer that churns up and pulverizes the current pavement. Then, cement or another binding agent is mixed into the material and water is added to keep the cement hydrated. Next, the new surface is compacted and graded. Finally, an overlay is added to ensure a smooth, strong surface.

FDR is only suitable for areas of pavement failure greater than 15,000 square feet. For areas smaller than 15,000 square feet, we don’t recommend FDR due to cost. Reach out to DRYCO to see if FDR is the right solution to rehabilitate your pavement.

FDR is actually a great solution for pavement with subgrade issues. Since part of the process involves churning up the base, sub base issues can be addressed easily before the pavement is rehabilitated.

Drainage issues can be corrected during FDR to prevent the water from impacting the strength and stability of the new pavement. FDR can help some drainage issues because it includes cement when remixing the pulverized asphalt, and the cement will absorb extra moisture. Utility lines should all be marked clearly before FDR can take place. While some lines will not need to be moved because FDR doesn’t go deeper than the sub base layer, occasionally, some lines may need to be lowered during the process; it depends on how deep the existing lines are. As part of FDR, DRYCO will assess any drainage or utility issues prior to beginning the process.

Sealcoating pavement is usually recommended every three to five years as part of a maintenance program, with the first application at least 12 months after a new surface is laid.

FDR can be a long term solution for failed pavement. On average, pavement that is rehabilitated through FDR can last 20 to 25 years as long as the pavement is well maintained and any base, sub base, or drainage issues have been addressed.

FDR is a relatively quick process (three days), but part of the process allows for some time for the new mix pavement to cure. It can be phased to minimize impact to your business and customers.

If you have an upcoming job where you think full-depth reclamation would be a good fit, then simply contact DRYCO using this form to schedule a FREE estimate. One of our experienced estimators will visit your job site and deliver a competitive estimate for your project.

We provide our FDR services throughout the greater Sacramento/San Francisco/San Jose/Oakland/Bay area, including:

• Oakland
• Sacramento
• San Francisco
• San Jose