Existing road contractors, states, and municipalities will soon be hard at work for another season, and other contractors may be considering entry into the market. One of the biggest decisions that must be made is purchasing the first paver.
Read also: How to buy an asphalt paver
Whether buying a new or used asphalt paver, total cost of ownership is a key factor. The longer the paver lasts—and the less it costs in downtime or maintenance—the faster it will earn back its initial investment and continue to make money.
Key considerations for pavers
- Match size to project
- Choose the right screed
- Mat quality
- Safety features
- Operator comfort
- Warrant
- Dealer support
About the Author
Frank Raczon
Frank Raczon has covered and influenced the equipment industry for 35 years, including 15 years as senior editor of Construction Equipment, and marketing, advertising, and public relations work with the industry's top manufacturers. In addition to authoring "Caterpillar: Modern Earthmoving Marvels" (Motorbooks, 2015), he has won numerous awards in his career, highlighted by nods from the Construction Writers Association, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, the Business Marketing Association, and BtoB magazine. Raczon has also won a number of awards from publishing peer groups such as ASBPE and TABPI.