The intermediate zone is defined as the period after the vibratory roller or rollers have broken down and compacted the mix and it has subsequently cooled to a temperature ranging from 200 to 240 degrees. Sometimes referred to as the "tender zone," the common equipment of choice for this stage is the pneumatic-tired roller. Though the breakdown rollers provide the most compaction, they are not only ineffective, but potentially detrimental, in the tender zone. Pneumatic-tired rollers, on the other hand, provide a kneading action, eliminating air pockets and voids from the mat, and adding a small amount of density.

The goal of the pneumatic rolling pattern closely resembles that of the breakdown roller because it also has a well-defined window of opportunity in its temperature zone to reach maximum coverage of the mat. If the pneumatic roller crosses over into the higher or lower temperature zones, it risks throwing off the rhythm of the operation by disrupting the rolling pattern of either the breakdown or finish rollers.

Typically utilized when the asphalt cools to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, the finish roller irons out minor imperfections in the mat and leaves the smoothest surface possible . Often a static-drum roller or a vibratory roller run in static mode, the finish roller follows a pattern that remains consistent with the rest of the rolling train, avoiding sharp turns and quick starts/stops that could damage the mat.

Again, many foremen will refer back to previous jobs to determine what rollers to use. Once these main rolling components have been defined for a particular job, it's time to put the test strip into practice.