Full Depth Reclamation Project – Saddleworth Roads
Maintaining the vast network of spray-sealed roads is an ongoing challenge, especially with frequent patches of deterioration leading to potholes and shoulder failures. This project focused on providing a cost-effective and sustainable solution through full depth reclamation, transforming weak and damaged surfaces into strong, durable road bases.
Client:
Downer Group
Location:
Saddleworth, SA
Project Year:
2022
Duration:
Weeks
Project Value:
Unknown
Scope/Focus:
Road Stabilisation
Project Overview
The project addressed clusters of failing spray-sealed roads by using a bobcat with a stabiliser attachment to mix existing spray seal and rubble. Where necessary, new material was added to repair lost sections, especially in potholes and sunken shoulders. The treated material was mixed to a depth of 200–250mm, compacted to consistent OMC levels, and prepared for spray sealing the next day.
This method produced a strong, long-lasting road base that remains intact three years later. In addition to being highly effective, it also proved quicker and more economical compared to traditional alternatives.
Key Takeaways:
Sustainability: Applied the 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – by reusing rubble and spray seal materials.
Eco-Friendly: Reduced carbon emissions with less transport and machine work, offering a cleaner alternative to lime or cement stabilisers.
Durability: Delivered a reliable and long-lasting solution, still performing strongly after 3 years in service.
Searching for a Cost-Effective Way to Repair Failing Roads?
Industry Expertise
With years of experience, we deliver reliable solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Innovative Services
Our forward-thinking approach ensures practical, cost-effective, and sustainable outcomes for every project.
quality products
We are committed to delivering the highest standards, ensuring consistency and long-term performance.
Sustainable Practices
Our work is environmentally conscious, designed to conserve resources and reduce impact.
Industry Expertise
With years of experience, we deliver reliable solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Innovative Services
Our forward-thinking approach ensures practical, cost-effective, and sustainable outcomes for every project.
quality products
We are committed to delivering the highest standards, ensuring consistency and long-term performance.
Sustainable Practices
Our work is environmentally conscious, designed to conserve resources and reduce impact.
Full depth reclamation is a process where existing road materials, including spray seal and rubble, are mixed and stabilised to create a new, durable road base without the need for complete reconstruction.
The method was chosen because the roads had recurring potholes and shoulder failures. Reclamation provided a quicker, more cost-effective, and sustainable solution compared to traditional road rebuilding.
The stabilised mix was applied to a depth of approximately 200–250mm, ensuring a strong and stable base ready for compaction and spray sealing.
Yes. This process reuses existing road materials, reduces the need for new resources, and lowers carbon emissions by minimising transport and heavy machinery usage.
When properly executed, reclaimed roads offer long-lasting durability. The Saddleworth project, for example, has been performing strongly for over 3 years with no major issues.