Rockhampton sits on the Fitzroy River floodplain, where the water table can rise within 2 m of the surface after heavy rain. This high moisture environment accelerates pavement distress — rutting, cracking, and stripping are common. A thorough existing pavement evaluation identifies the cause before you invest in rehabilitation. We combine falling weight deflectometer surveys with laboratory testing of recovered cores to quantify remaining life. For projects with tight deadlines, we also offer a pavimento flexible assessment to compare flexible versus rigid overlay options.
Moisture beneath the pavement is the number one hidden cause of premature failure in Rockhampton’s road network.
Scope of work
- FWD deflection analysis to back-calculate layer moduli
- Core logging for thickness and material condition
- In-situ CBR tests on the subgrade using a dynamic cone penetrometer
Area-specific notes
In Rockhampton, many old pavements were built on expansive clays without proper moisture control. We frequently find that the subgrade has softened 300 mm below the base course, invisible from the surface. Skipping an existing pavement evaluation here means you risk overlaying a pavement that will crack again within two years. Our testing identifies these deep zones of weakness, so the repair strategy targets the real problem — not just the symptoms.
Watch how it works
Standards used
AS 1726 – Geotechnical site investigations, Austroads Guide to Pavement Technology Part 2 (AGPT02), AS 1289 – Standard test for FWD deflections, AASHTO T-238 – CBR of soils in the field
Linked services
FWD and deflection survey
Full falling weight deflectometer survey across the project length. We collect deflection bowls at 20 m intervals, back-calculate layer moduli, and map weak spots. The report includes a recommended overlay thickness for each segment.
Coring and lab testing
Extract 100 mm diameter cores from the existing pavement. We measure thickness, binder content, aggregate gradation, and moisture susceptibility in our NATA-accredited lab. Results are delivered within 7 working days.
Typical parameters
FAQ
How much does an existing pavement evaluation cost in Rockhampton?
The cost ranges from AU$1.870 to AU$6.120 depending on the number of FWD test points, core samples, and laboratory tests required. A 1 km section with 50 FWD points and 5 cores typically falls at the lower end. Contact us for a site-specific quote.
What is the difference between FWD and a Benkelman beam?
FWD applies a dynamic impulse load that simulates a moving truck axle, while the Benkelman beam measures static rebound deflection. FWD is faster (up to 60 points per hour) and provides data for mechanistic pavement design. In Rockhampton, FWD is now the standard for major road projects.
Do you evaluate pavements on private roads and driveways?
Yes, we assess pavement condition on any sealed surface, including private roads, car parks, and residential driveways. For low-volume roads, we often use a lightweight deflectometer instead of a full FWD trailer to reduce cost and access constraints.
How long does a typical evaluation take from start to finish?
Fieldwork for a 1 km section takes one day. Lab testing and analysis add 5 to 7 working days. The final report includes deflection data, layer moduli, core photos, and recommended overlay thickness. We can expedite to 3 days for urgent projects.
Can you test the pavement without closing the road?
Yes. FWD testing is conducted with a single lane closure and traffic control, typically completed in 4 hours per kilometer. Cores are taken with a trailer-mounted rig that minimises disruption. We work with Rockhampton Regional Council to schedule work during off-peak hours.