Effectiveness of Warranted Asphalt Pavements in Indiana

Abstract

Since 1996, warranted asphalt pavements have been placed on a trial basis in Indiana in an attempt to improve pavement performance, increase quality, and prevent premature failures. The initial capital costs of these pavements have been higher than those of similar nonwarranted asphalt pavements, however. Because of this, an assessment of the benefits of warranted asphalt pavements should include an evaluation of their performance life and initial and maintenance costs. This study examined the performance of asphalt pavement warranties by comparing international roughness index and rutting data for both warranted and nonwarranted asphalt pavements. The distribution of pavement performance data was investigated and deterioration curves were developed. Initial costs for both types of projects were estimated and compared, along with short- and long-term maintenance expenditures. The results indicated that, overall, the warranted asphalt pavements performed more efficiently than similar nonwarranted asphalt pavements. Warranted asphalt pavements deteriorate more slowly and their service lives can be 10 to 14 years longer than traditional nonwarranted asphalt pavements. When initial capital costs and maintenance expenditures were considered, warranted asphalt pavements appeared to be 15% to 40% and 47% to 61% more cost-effective in short- and long-term comparisons, respectively, than nonwarranted asphalt pavements.