Environmental Impacts
There are few aspects about a job that cannot be determined through the help of a test strip, but one variable that remains rarely predictable is the effect of the weather. In a paving foreman's perfect world, wind and ambient temperatures would remain constant and never fluctuate from different times of day or season. In reality, changes in environmental conditions are inevitable and, consequently, affect the mix temperature. As a result, rolling patterns must also vary from season to season, day to day and sometimes even hour to hour.

During early and late portions of the paving season, ambient temperatures are typically lower and available sunlight is reduced. Because the mix cools more quickly during these times, the window of opportunity for each roller is reduced. In order to account for this change, established rolling patterns should be manipulated to keep the breakdown rollers closer to the paver and ensure that the mix is being compacted at its optimal temperature. Conversely, as ambient temperatures rise and sunlight intensifies during the middle of the paving season, the rollers should drop back from the paver to allow the mix to cool to more appropriate temperatures for each roller.

The Experience Advantage
Unfortunately, the most important tool in developing proper rolling patterns is something that can't be taught: experience. Experienced crews possess the knowledge and patience to consistently prepare the right rolling pattern for each job. Those who have developed their own rhythm among the paving train equipment quickly and efficiently utilize and adapt rolling patterns to fit their specific needs.

As experience increases, it becomes much easier to develop rolling patterns that will make a positive difference from job to job. Establishing a rolling pattern is not a matter of following a formula - it's about finding a rhythm. By sticking to a few basic fundamentals, such as laying a test strip, learning from each project and applying that knowledge to future jobs, the results are fewer penalties, more bonuses and ensured profits.