MERITS AND DEMERITS OF RIGID PAVEMENTS

 

MERITS AND DEMERITS OF RIGID PAVEMENTS

There are several advantages of properly constructed Rigid Pavements:

·         Low maintenance costs.

·         Long life with extreme durability.

·         High value as a base for future resurfacing with asphalt.

·         Load distribution over a wide area, decreasing base and sub grade requirements.

·         Ability to be placed directly on poor soils.

·         No damage from oils and greases.

·         Strong edges.

The disadvantages of rigid pavements include:

·         High initial costs.

·         Joints required for contraction and expansion.

·         Generally rough riding quality.

·         High repair costs.

MERITS AND DEMERITS OF FLEXIBLE PAVEMENTS

There are several advantages of properly constructed Flexible Pavements:

·         Adaptability to stage construction.

·         Availability of low-cost types that can be easily built.

·         Ability to be easily opened and patched.

·         Easy to repair frost heave and settlement.

·         Resistance to the formation of ice glaze

Thedisadvantages of Flexible Pavements include:

·         Higher maintenance costs.

·         Shorter life span under heavy use.

·         Damage by oils and certain chemicals.

·         Weak edges that may require curbs or edge devices.