The new caliche base washes away and pours into the City of Mertzon's streets as Cahill works fast to pave the GMPL in the rain.
UPDATE: Read here for what happened at the GMPL after the rain.
Hours after my last post 3 days ago about ICISD flooding itself, its contractor, Cahill, began putting down fresh caliche base on the GMPL. Then yesterday they put down the tar primer...and this morning, just as they were putting down the black top...it rained!
See my video The hot asphalt paving of ICISD’s parking lot in the rain. Make sure and watch to the end to see my photos of the condition of the unfinished parking lot after the rain passed.
As seen in the video everyone doubled down, even in the rain and lightning, and continued with the paving. My initial research shows that hot asphalt paving should NOT be done in the rain.
I asked ChatGPT to "Write me a 500 word article on why hot asphalt paving should not be done in the rain" and here are the results:
Title: The Hazards of Hot Asphalt Paving in Rainy Conditions
Introduction (approx. 50 words):
Hot asphalt paving is a common practice in road construction and repair. However, undertaking this task during rainy weather can have detrimental effects on the quality and durability of the pavement. In this article, we will explore the reasons why hot asphalt paving should not be carried out in the rain.
1. Compromised Adhesion (approx. 100 words):
One of the primary concerns when paving with hot asphalt in rainy conditions is compromised adhesion. Rainwater can significantly hinder the bonding process between the hot asphalt and the underlying surface. The moisture acts as a barrier, preventing proper adhesion, leading to weakened structural integrity. Consequently, the asphalt pavement becomes more susceptible to cracks, potholes, and premature deterioration. To ensure a long-lasting and durable road surface, it is essential to avoid paving with hot asphalt during rainy weather.
2. Uneven Surface (approx. 100 words):
Rainwater can disrupt the even distribution and compaction of hot asphalt, resulting in an uneven surface. The water interferes with the smooth application of the material and hampers the compaction process. This leads to an inadequate density of the asphalt mixture, which compromises its load-bearing capacity and overall durability. An uneven pavement not only affects the aesthetics but also poses safety risks to motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. Therefore, it is crucial to postpone hot asphalt paving until dry weather conditions prevail.
3. Reduced Longevity (approx. 100 words):
The quality and longevity of hot asphalt pavement are greatly diminished when laid in the rain. Moisture weakens the asphalt mixture and reduces its ability to withstand heavy traffic loads, temperature fluctuations, and the natural wear and tear of the environment. Rainwater infiltrating the asphalt can penetrate the base layers, causing the formation of voids and accelerating the degradation process. The compromised structural integrity leads to increased maintenance and repair costs, as well as inconveniences for road users. To maximize the lifespan of the pavement, it is prudent to avoid paving with hot asphalt during rainy periods.
4. Safety Risks (approx. 100 words):
Paving with hot asphalt in the rain introduces safety risks for both workers and the public. Rainwater can make the construction site slippery, making it more challenging for workers to move safely. Additionally, reduced visibility due to rain can hinder accurate placement of the asphalt material. Wet surfaces also increase the likelihood of accidents during compaction and traffic control operations. To ensure the safety of construction workers and minimize potential hazards for road users, it is crucial to schedule hot asphalt paving during dry weather conditions.
Conclusion (approx. 50 words):
Hot asphalt paving is a complex process that requires favorable weather conditions for optimal results. Paving during rainy weather can compromise the adhesion, lead to an uneven surface, reduce the pavement’s longevity, and introduce safety risks. By postponing the paving process until dry weather, we can ensure long-lasting, safe, and durable road surfaces.
The GMPL is, indeed, one Grand Mistake.
Stay tuned. And remember, these are our tax dollars at work.