Contractors buying asphalt pavers need to consider more than the initial price. They must think about the total cost of ownership and resale value.
They also need to consider their long-term business goals and plan for growth. The right equipment will help them achieve their objectives and save time, money, and labor.
Size
When purchasing asphalt pavers for sale, it is essential to consider the size of the space you will be using them in. For example, if the paving job is in a small area, you will need a smaller track paver to complete the work, while larger ones are ideal for larger jobs.
The global asphalt paver market is growing steadily, boosted by infrastructure investments and technological advancements in road construction. This growth is also driven by government initiatives to improve transportation infrastructure, increased urbanization, and population growth. Additionally, integrating intelligent technologies in asphalt pavers has boosted efficiency and performance.
Key players in the market are focusing on strategic partnerships, collaborations, and acquisitions to enhance their product offerings and expand their presence. This strategy also enables them to tap the potential of emerging markets. Further, they are incorporating sustainable solutions and introducing electric asphalt pavers to cater to the increasing demand for environmentally friendly products. Moreover, they emphasize scheduled maintenance services to mitigate downtime and boost productivity.
Power
Asphalt pavers are large machines for constructing roads, parking lots, and bridges. They distribute partially compacted asphalt and are available in various sizes and power levels to suit multiple applications. Contractors can choose between wheeled and tracked machines, with the latter providing superior traction and stability for working in inclines or rough terrain.
Choosing a machine with enough power will allow contractors to complete more jobs daily and repay their initial investment faster. It also ensures they can tackle complex tasks with ease and precision, boosting productivity. The suitable machine will also have advanced technology and sensors that help with performance and quality control.
Equipment managers can also look for features that help them save on operating costs. A few ways they can achieve this include training employees to use proper techniques, using fuel-saving operational modes, and keeping the machine clean. These simple steps will help contractors reduce costs and produce the highest-quality asphalt surfaces. They will be able to meet strict project deadlines, prioritize safety and efficiency, and offer the best customer service.
Reliability
Asphalt pavers are a vital part of road construction and landscaping projects. Even the most skilled operators need a machine they can count on to perform well. Investing in quality equipment ensures accurate asphalt placement and smooth surfaces that make for safer driving and reduce vehicle maintenance costs.
Paving manufacturers are keenly aware of the declining number of experienced asphalt contractors and make their pavers as user-friendly as possible. For example, the latest Wirtgen concrete slipform pavers have an intuitive control system that helps new operators get up to speed quickly. In addition, the system offers a simple deployment of mats in desired widths, which helps increase production.
Operator training, fuel-saving operating modes, paver cleaning, and preventive maintenance are other ways equipment managers can reduce operating costs. In addition, assessing the availability of spare parts, service centers, and warranty coverage is essential when evaluating overall expenses.
Ease of Maintenance
One of the most important considerations when purchasing asphalt pavers for sale is ensuring they are easy to maintain. This includes ensuring that the equipment is clean and operating correctly and evaluating the availability of spare parts and maintenance plans. Additionally, assessing the equipment’s warranty coverage is essential to mitigate any risks associated with potential downtime.
Choosing the correct asphalt paver type also depends on the projects contractors take on. For example, those who primarily work on driveways may want to consider a gravity-fed paver or a conveyor model that allows them to control the amount of HMA they use daily. Conversely, contractors who work on highways and airport runways may consider a tracked paver with more excellent traction and stability than a wheeled machine.
Additionally, contractors should choose a paver with an integrated telematics system to help reduce fuel costs and prevent unnecessary damage. Whitley notes that a sound telematics system will allow the operator to identify and address issues quickly. For example, the contractor can fix this issue by reviewing a telematics report if an asphalt paver runs in Eco mode when it should be in Max mode.
Warranty
A good quality paver should last for many jobs without requiring costly repairs. The warranty should back it up and give contractors peace of mind that the equipment is protected for a long time.
Inspecting a paver before purchasing is vital to determining whether it is worth the initial investment. Look for signs of abuse or neglect, such as torn seats, excessive rust, and worn parts. Also, examine the drive system, specifically the tires, tracks, and hopper. Look for varying truck dump heights and hopper overloading, which can cause wear on these components.
Purchasing asphalt pavers for sale is a significant investment that should not be taken lightly. The more money a contractor can save in downtime and maintenance costs, the faster it can earn back its initial cost. This helps paving companies meet their production goals and maximize profits on projects. Buying pre-owned equipment offers a lower upfront price, making it easier for small business owners to afford top-quality paving machines. Moreover, the wide selection of available models in the pre-owned market can ensure contractors find the right paver.
